VELUX and Netatmo announce voice-activated smart windows system

Roof window manufacturer VELUX and smart home leader Netatmo have joined forces to launch an automatic smart sensor-based windows system complete with Siri voice control.

Called VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO, the system enables automatic and smart sensor-based operation of roof windows, blinds and shutters.

Built on the newest smart-sensor technology and developed in collaboration with Netatmo, the VELUX smart windows system is designed to think and act on the occupants’ behalf. It monitors the temperature, humidity and CO₂concentration inside the home to improve air quality, climate, ventilation and sun screening in order to create healthier indoor living conditions.

VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO brings together a smartphone app, an indoor climate sensor, a departure switch and an internet gateway run by advanced algorithms that control the fully-automated operation of roof windows, blinds and shutters.

Says Kent Holm, SVP, global product management, The VELUX Group:

“The trend for smart homes to help us live more comfortable and healthier lives is increasing and this innovation positions VELUX for more growth in this rapidly developing product segment.” 

VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO is the first smart roof window system that connects with Apple HomeKit, allowing homeowners to manage indoor climate control at home or remotely across all Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch, Apple TV and HomePod.

The system can be controlled using Siri®, Apple’s voice-controlled intelligent assistant, or with the touch of a button on the Apple Home app.

The system is designed for homeowners to easily install it by themselves and comes with its own app allowing people to manage their indoor climate control system in line with personal needs and external weather data through their phones or tablets.

Adds Fred Potter, founder and CEO of Netatmo:

“VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO is the result of two stunning technologies: high standard and quality VELUX roof windows and Netatmo’s know-how for creating simple and useful products and applications. By automating the opening, closing and shading of roof windows, we can make a big difference and improve indoor climate so users don’t have to worry about it. We created a smart sensor-based solution that is not only easy to use and reliable, but also beneficial for user’s wellbeing.”

VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO comes in three parts – a sensor, gateway and departure switch – and is compatible with all VELUX INTEGRA® electrical products. A sensor, placed in the room with a roof window installed, measures CO₂, humidity and temperature and monitors external weather data from online services. The sensors come embedded with advance algorithms that activates ventilation and protect against heat.

There are three ways to use the system – sensor-based operation, smartphone control and manual control. For sensor-based operation, users do not need to do anything. The smartphone control allows users to adjust or stop automatic functions and, control the roof windows manually. The manual control is good for when homeowners are leaving their property; they can simply push the departure switch button to close all windows for safety.

The VELUX ACTIVE with NETATMO starter pack retails for 249€. The additional indoor climate sensor retails for 99€. All products are available on www.velux.com/active and on www.netatmo.com.