As alluded, the connected home category is primed to explode. And, based on this FCC filing, the next entrant will be D-Link – who’ll be adding an $80 “WiFi Smart Plug” to their existing stable of IP cameras.
The DSP-W215 mydlink Wi-Fi Smart Plug is a multi-purpose, compact, and easy-to-use device that allows you to monitor and control your home’s electronic devices from wherever you are. Set a schedule that turns your TV off when you’re asleep, have your hi-fi wake you up in the morning, or ensure that your desk lamps aren’t left on when you’re at work. The handy mydlink smartphone app will allow you to switch your appliances on or off in an instant, or change your power schedules on-the-go, ensuring that you won’t have to worry about leaving something on when you’re away.
Unlike Belkin’s competing WeMo line, this first D-Link “HomeSense” product appears much more simplistic (at launch) – without an ability to create complex rules and link actions. Having said that, beyond mere smartphone on/off control, the 802.11g/n Smart Plug will at least provide data on energy usage (to replace my ancient Kill-a-watt?) and utilizes a thermal sensor to protect against devices that might overheat.
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I am NOT a fan of my WeMo's. When they work they work good, but mine keep on losing their settings and its a pain in the butt to set them back up again.
I have two of the WeMo plugs.
Looking at the reviews on Amazon I see many having the same problem.
Its a good idea, but unfortunately it does not work like they should.
A bit late to the party!
I had 2 wemo's and sent them back as they weren't stable enough for my Samsung S3, bought some new ones from a UK start up company - WiFi Plug and have been really happy with them, I got them before xmas when they had a promotion on and now control 4 different appliances for under £100! very happy.
Lets hope they can manage to improve the app better than Belkin can - and that they add a light switch to their set of products. I got my mom a Belkin light switch and while the switch does appear to be stable (good, as I am 600 miles away so can't easily come in to fix it) but the iOS app is flaky and updates seem to sometimes make things worse. The most recent update made it so that I can connect to the device from 600 miles away and my mom can connect on 3G, but she can't connect from within the local network.
Their price also needs to be more competitive -- they want $80 while Belkin is selling for $50.