The Case for Supporting Zigbee in Home Automation

As home automation continues to evolve, it's essential to consider the growing popularity of devices that rely on Zigbee technology. In this article, we'll explore why supporting Zigbee is crucial for harmony hub wink and other Prosumer devices.

One of the primary concerns is that excluding a whole class of emerging devices that only support Zigbee can weaken the overall message of home automation solutions like Indigo. These devices are becoming increasingly popular, and by not supporting them, we're limiting the appeal of our products to potential clients and friends.

On the other hand, embracing multi-protocol platforms like Indigo can justify the cost of more advanced hardware and software. By supporting both Zigbee and Z-Wave, we can cater to a broader range of devices, making it easier to justify the investment in Prosumer solutions.

Alarm systems are another area where Zigbee is gaining traction. While some products support both Z-Wave and Zigbee, others may only be compatible with one or the other. As the smart home market continues to expand, it's essential to consider the growing importance of Zigbee in this space.

Smart locks are another 'hot' product area that relies heavily on Zigbee technology. The Nest thermostat also features a Zigbee chip, although it remains dormant for now. The potential for cable boxes to be updated with true Zigbee mesh protocols is significant, making these devices potentially powerful hubs for home automation control.

In conclusion, while Indigo currently supports Z-Wave and Insteon, it's crucial to revisit the decision not to support Zigbee directly. As more devices enter the market, supporting both Zigbee and Z-Wave can help Indigo maintain its position as a leading Prosumer home automation platform. By doing so, we can ensure that our products remain relevant and appealing to a growing audience of smart homeowners.

* Supporting Zigbee is essential for home automation solutions like Indigo

* Excluding devices that only support Zigbee can weaken the overall message of home automation solutions

* Multi-protocol platforms like Indigo can justify the cost of advanced hardware and software

* Zigbee is gaining traction in alarm systems, smart locks, and other areas of the smart home market

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