Aqara’s New FP300 is The Presence Sensor to Beat
Having used the FP1, Fp2, and the FP1E, it’s fair to say I’m familiar with Aqara’s range of presence sensors. What has come as a surprise is the announcement today at CES 2025, of the FP300, which combines PIR and millimetre wave (mmWave) sensing technologies to deliver both accurate and responsive motion/presence detection. Designed as one of the first battery-operated presence sensors available to date, it offers a battery life of up to two years. Its compact, wireless design allows for flexible placement throughout the home, especially now that it can be installed wire-free.
With built-in Thread and Zigbee support, the FP300 is Matter-enabled, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of platforms. In addition to presence detection, it features independent light, temperature, and humidity sensors, providing comprehensive, basic sensor coverage.
Comprehensive Monitoring with 5-in-1 Sensing
The FP300 integrates mmWave, PIR, light, temperature, and humidity sensors into a single device, providing accurate presence detection and environmental monitoring. This solution supports various home automation needs, such as improving energy efficiency, enhancing comfort, and boosting security. Each sensor should be exposed to Apple Home, although we’ll know more closer to the release.
Accurate Presence Detection with AI Optimisation
Combining 60GHz mmWave and PIR technologies, the FP300 detects even subtle movements, including stationary individuals, within a range of up to 6 metres (20 feet). Its advanced AI algorithms help reduce false triggers caused by pets, robot vacuums, or environmental factors, improving detection accuracy over time.
Dual Connectivity and Broad Compatibility
With support for both Thread and Zigbee, the FP300 is Matter-compatible, ensuring seamless integration with major smart home platforms, including Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, Home Assistant, Homey, and SmartThings.
Flexible, Wire-Free Installation
Powered by two CR2450 batteries, the FP300 offers a wire-free design for versatile placement. It can be mounted on walls, ceilings, or tight corners using its joint bracket, which supports magnetic surfaces as well. The sensor provides up to 2 years of battery life in Thread mode and up to 3 years in Zigbee mode.
Customisable Settings for Personalised Use
The FP300 is ready to use out of the box, with self-adaptive sensitivity and AI-enabled false report filtering. For advanced users, customisation options are available through the Aqara Home app when in Zigbee mode. Users can adjust detection ranges, disable specific sensors, or set sensor timeouts to tailor the device to their specific requirements.
Whilst FP300 isn’t a replacement for the FP2, due to the option for up to 30 separate zone with the latter, it does offer more functionality than the FP1E, with the extra sensors, and the ability to use either Thread or Zigbee.
Key Specs
- Wireless Protocols: Thread, Zigbee, Bluetooth
- Dimensions: 42 × 42 × 50 mm (1.65 × 1.65 × 1.97 in.)
- Operating Temperature: 0°C ~ 40°C (32°F ~ 104°F)
- Operating Humidity: 0 ~ 95% RH, no condensation
- Battery: CR2450*2
