Aqara Announces First Display Panel for the US
One device that’s sure to get North American users excited is Aqara’s Panel Hub S1 Plus – an in-wall control panel designed for centralised smart home management. Its touchscreen interface allows users to control their home without relying on a smartphone. Replacing a standard light switch, the S1 Plus is hardwired to operate and automate up to two light fixtures.
With dual-band Wi-Fi connectivity, the panel can also wirelessly manage various smart devices, including Aqara’s own security cameras, door locks, thermostats, lights, and curtains, while enabling the activation of smart home scenes. Additionally, the S1 Plus functions as a Zigbee hub, connecting Aqara Zigbee devices to the Aqara Home app and other Matter-compatible platforms.
Comprehensive Smart Home Control
The S1 Plus replaces a traditional light switch, allowing control and automation of up to two light fixtures. It includes Matter-compatible wireless buttons, which can be customised to operate individual smart devices or activate home scenes and routines. The panel also supports precise adjustments for Aqara devices, such as dimming lights, altering colour temperatures, adjusting curtain positions, and setting thermostat temperatures.
Real-Time Camera Streaming
Users can stream footage from Aqara cameras directly to the panel for convenient home monitoring without a smartphone. When paired with an Aqara doorbell, the S1 Plus acts as an intercom, displaying live video feeds and enabling two-way audio. It also allows users to unlock Aqara smart locks directly from the panel, offering a straightforward way to manage home access, particularly for children or elderly family members.
Zigbee Hub and Matter Bridge
With dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) and Zigbee connectivity, the S1 Plus functions as both a Zigbee hub (for Aqara Zigbee devices) and a Matter bridge for Aqara devices. This eliminates the need for a separate hub, enabling seamless integration with third-party Matter platforms such as Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, and SmartThings.
Power Monitoring and Smart Load Management
As a two-channel smart switch, the S1 Plus monitors the power consumption of connected lights, providing detailed insights into usage. Its Smart Load mode, supported by MARS Tech, ensures Aqara smart lights remain powered while enabling wireless control, preventing accidental power disconnection.
Energy-Efficient Screen Activation
A built-in motion sensor activates the touchscreen when movement is detected nearby, conserving energy and minimising disturbances at night. Users can adjust the sensor’s sensitivity to match their preferences.
Customisable User Interface
The S1 Plus offers a fully customisable interface, allowing users to personalise themes, dashboards, and widgets or set family photos as wallpapers. This flexibility does mainly apply to Aqara devices, as already outlined, so functionality is in some ways a little limited if you don’t own many compatible Aqara devices.
Key Specs
- Wireless Protocols: Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac 2.4GHz/5GHz, Zigbee IEEE802.15.4, Bluetooth
- Screen Resolution: 1440 × 720
- Electrical Rating: 110 – 240 VAC, 50/60 Hz, Max 8 A (Resistive Load)
- USB-C Input: 5V 2A
- Operating Temperature: -10°C ~ 40°C
- Operating Humidity: 0 ~ 95% RH, no condensation
