HomeKit Weekly: Automate your garden with Meross’ new HomeKit Smart Sprinkler Timer

HomeKit Weekly: Automate your garden with Meross’ new HomeKit Smart Sprinkler Timer

  • 18.03.2025 16:47
  • 9to5mac.com
  • Keywords: AI, Startup

Meross' new HomeKit Smart Sprinkler Timer offers weather-based watering, auto shut-off, and remote control via Wi-Fi. It supports up to 24 timers and costs less than Eve Aqua, making it ideal for larger gardens.

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Estimated market influence

Meross

Positivesentiment_satisfied
Analyst rating: N/A

Launched a new product that competes with Eve Aqua in the HomeKit ecosystem.

Eve

Eve

Negativesentiment_dissatisfied
Analyst rating: Buy

Competitor to Meross, but no direct negative impact mentioned.

Context

Analysis of Meross Smart Sprinkler Timer for HomeKit

Overview

  • Product: Meross Smart Sprinkler Timer
  • Release Date: [Not explicitly mentioned]
  • Integration: WiFi-enabled with full HomeKit support via the Home app, Siri, and automation routines.
  • Key Features:
    • Auto skip based on hyper-local weather adjustments.
    • Water usage tracking in the Meross app.
    • Auto shut-off for overwatering or low battery.
    • Supports up to 24 timers, suitable for large watering setups.
    • Works offline for watering schedules but requires internet/WiFi for weather-based adjustments.

Competitive Landscape

  • Competitor: Eve Aqua
    • Key Differences:
      • Eve Aqua: Uses Thread for low-power connectivity, faster response times in Home app, hub-free design.
      • Meross Smart Sprinkler Timer: WiFi-dependent with a hub, supports more timers (24), offers weather-based watering optimization and water usage tracking.
    • Price Advantage: Meross is available at a lower price point compared to Eve Aqua.

Use Cases

  • HomeKit Automations:
    • Sunrise watering for optimal water absorption.
    • Integration with HomeKit weather stations to avoid watering during rain.
    • Fun use case: Pairing with motion sensors to scare away squirrels.

Market Implications and Business Insights

  • Market Expansion: Adds a new option to the HomeKit ecosystem, expanding choices for users looking to retrofit their sprinkler systems.
  • Competitive Dynamics:
    • Meross targets users seeking cost-effective solutions with advanced features.
    • Eve Aqua retains an edge with faster response times and a hub-free design.
    • The market may see increased competition, potentially driving innovation and price reductions.
  • Strategic Considerations:
    • Meross’s lower pricing strategy could attract budget-conscious consumers while maintaining quality.
    • HomeKit integration strengthens Apple’s smart home ecosystem, benefiting both users and developers.

Long-Term Effects

  • Potential Growth: The smart sprinkler market is expected to grow with increasing adoption of IoT in homes.
  • Regulatory Impact: No specific regulations mentioned, but compliance with existing standards for smart devices will be crucial for long-term success.

Availability

  • Purchase Options:
    • Available on Meross’ website.
    • Also available directly from [another retailer] (exact details not provided in the text).