Belkin has announced the release of a new home-automation tool, the WeMo Insight Switch, an iPhone-compatible device that allows users to turn lights and appliances on and off remotely. The WeMo Insight is the successor to Belkin’s initial WeMo Switch, and it improves upon the older version by adding the ability to monitor power usage. It also allows users to create rules and schedules governing power usage.
The WeMo Insight Switch plugs into a regular wall socket, and a user then plugs an appliance into the device. Once connected, the WeMo Insight monitors power usage, displaying that information directly on the user’s iPhone or iPad. Users can receive notifications when an appliance is active, such as when a laundry cycle has ended or when a television is still active.
The device also has an accompanying app that allows users to set schedules for notifications when devices are on or have been running for some time. Using the app, users can set devices to automatically activate or deactivate at given times.
The device is compatible with both iOS and Android smartphones and tablets. Its app is available in both the App Store and the Google Play Store, as well as Amazon’s Appstore.
It requires a Wi-Fi connection in order to remain connected to the app. The device is available for $60.
