Rockwell Automation signs a partnership agreement to work on the Industrial Internet of Things in Saudi ArabiaRockwell Automation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Internet of Things Technologies, a joint venture between the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia and stc Group. The MOU includes Rockwell advising on new business opportunities and innovations within the industrial sector. The idea is that through joint work between the state and Rockwell, it will be able to accelerate the adoption of new technologies for Saudi factories as part of the kingdom’s digital transformation initiatives. The news does not say much, but it is worth noting that the IoT company exists and aims to drive the Industrial Internet of Things in Saudi Arabia. (Arab News) Stacy Higginbotham
NIST is developing a breath-sensing algorithm that uses Wi-Fi: Researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology, or NIST, have built an algorithm that uses disturbances in Wi-Fi fields to detect breathing problems. The BreatheSmart algorithm correctly identified simulated breathing conditions 99.54% of the time. It works by repeatedly tracking the channel status information provided to the router to understand how a person is breathing. I’ve talked to companies that use radar to measure breath, but Wi-Fi would be even better because it’s already in use in everyday homes and devices. Of course, with this level of detail, people will begin to realize that the companies deploying this technology will have a lot more personal health information than they might want to provide. It would be great in healthcare or nursing home settings, though. (Engadget) Stacy Higginbotham
Origin Wireless has a deal with Aloe Care for its Wi-Fi sensingOrigin Wireless’ Wi-Fi sensing technology will be used to track the elderly’s movements and falls in various healthcare settings thanks to a deal signed with Aloe Care. Aloe Care makes a voice-activated home care alert system. With the Origin program, Aloe Care will launch new home security devices and offer a service that will automatically detect whole-home movement and falls without the user needing a wearable device or indoor cameras. I can’t wait to see this at CES and see how accurate it is. (original wireless) Stacy Higginbotham
Philips Hue brings natural light to its lights: If you have Philips Hue lights, you may want to check out the corresponding mobile app. You’ll likely find a new “Natural Light” option available, something Philips Hue started but then discontinued earlier this year. The feature is similar to Apple’s Adaptive Lighting function, which adjusts bulb colors based on the time of day. In the early morning, white Philips Hue bulbs will provide a cool white light, gradually adjusting to warmer colors later in the day. (9to5 mac) – Kevin C. Tofel
Hoobs goes Pro for Matter: Remember Hoobs, the $299 smart home hub with Homebridge software pre-installed? When I reviewed it, I thought it was a good product that brought basic smart home device support for Amazon Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Google Home devices. But I’ve noticed that it’s much more expensive than just buying a Raspberry Pi and installing the open source Homebridge app. Well, now there’s a Hoobs Pro model that you can pre-order for $399. Why the price jump? Hoobs Pro supports Matter devices with an embedded Thread Radio. The cost is still too much for me but I already have some control over things. For the new smart home owner who wants a do-it-all hub, the Hoobs Pro is worth a look. (hoops) – Kevin C. Tofel
MQTT 101 is in session right nowWe mention the MQTT messaging standard on a regular basis, mainly because it is one of the de facto messaging protocols of the Internet of Things. Well, more for industrial IoT than consumer use cases, but it’s still important. Since we rarely get into exactly how MQTT works, this explanation is worth sharing as it provides more context about device messages. (infoworld) – Kevin C. Tofel
What can you learn from a CT scan of the Nest Thermostat? It can be said that the Nest Thermostat helped launch the current smart home era. Designed by Tony Fadell of Apple iPod fame, it’s very functional while also being a beautiful piece of hardware. How did Fadil design intelligence inside the original nest? A CT scan of the device provides all the answers. I found this write-up and the accompanying video absolutely fascinating. Learn about custom leaf spring connectors and other clever engineering techniques used in the product. (month survey) – Kevin C. Tofel
Pepper gets a clue in the smart home insurance gameIoT platform provider Pepper has acquired Notion from Comcast. The deal gives Pepper entry into the smart home insurance market by giving her access to Notion’s multipurpose sensors and insurance clients. (Stacy on the Internet of Things) Stacy Higginbotham
Amazon releases a limited edition of the itemAmazon has enabled Matter on millions of Echo devices, allowing them to control Matter-enabled switches, outlets, and lights over Wi-Fi. Amazon will add more devices and Thread capabilities next year as it tests rollout success. (Stacy on the Internet of Things) Stacy Higginbotham
