Installing smart-home automation systems can be pricey, which is why designer Roger Yiu is giving consumers a back door to controlling your home on your mobile — the Smart Power Strip app.
The Smart Power Strip lets you power on and off any device you can plug into a conventional wall outlet. You can also set timers and read your electricity usage in real-time, all from your smartphone.
One unit includes four plug-ins and two USB inputs. That’s more ports than you can get with any comparable single-unit on the market for a significantly cheaper price — $100 to $120 if you buy into the Kickstarter project now.
The Smart Power Strip is compatible with both Apple and Android devices, and you can control your devices from anywhere — you don’t have to be within range of your home’s WiFi network.
You can also set up alerts as to what is turned on when — useful for regulating your kids’ or roommates’ TV or game time, especially since you can turn anything on or off, on the go.