Aqara FP400 Matter Multi-Sensor Launches With Thread and Zigbee

Aqara has officially released the Spatial Multi-Sensor FP400, following its initial announcement at CES 2026. The new presence sensor can track the position of up to ten people simultaneously and connect using either Thread or Zigbee, although the two options take different routes into Matter ecosystems.

The FP400 is available now on Amazon in the US, UK, DE, FR, ES, and IT with a limited 10% discount using the code – AQARAFP400 (ends 9/28).

When using Thread, the FP400 operates as a Matter-over-Thread device and can connect through a compatible third-party Thread Border Router. This removes the need for an Aqara hub and allows the sensor to work with platforms including Apple Home, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Home Assistant, Homey, and SmartThings. The Zigbee option is primarily intended for existing Aqara users. In this mode, an Aqara hub is required to connect the FP400 to third-party Matter platforms, with the hub effectively bridging the Zigbee sensor into Matter.

TRACKS UP TO TEN PEOPLE

Unlike conventional motion sensors, the FP400 is designed to determine where people are positioned within a room, rather than simply reporting whether movement has occurred. Its 60GHz mmWave radar provides a 120º field of view and covers an area measuring up to 10 x 8 metres. Aqara says the sensor can track the positions of as many as ten occupants in real time.

This information can be used for automations that respond to activity in different areas of a room. The FP400 also supports people counting, potentially allowing lighting, heating, cooling, or ventilation to be adjusted according to the number of people present. An integrated ambient light sensor adds illuminance information, allowing automations to consider both occupancy and the current light level.

SMALLER, CUSTOMISABLE DETECTION ZONES

Rooms can be divided into custom detection zones based on a grid of 0.5 x 0.5-metre sections. This could allow one sensor to control several parts of a larger room, such as a seating area, dining table, desk, or entrance. Aqara says its AI-assisted mapping can identify room boundaries, entrances, exits, and potential sources of interference. The company’s sensing algorithm is also intended to reduce false activations caused by pets, airflow, changing light levels, and moving robot vacuums. Detection sensitivity and the sensor’s Absence Confirmation Period can be adjusted through the Aqara Home app.

MATTER OVER THREAD WITHOUT AN AQARA HUB

The Thread option is likely to be the more attractive choice for Apple Home users, as it allows the FP400 to join an existing Thread network without an Aqara hub. A compatible Thread Border Router is still required, such as a supported HomePod (2nd gen), HomePod mini, or compatible Apple TV4K. Aqara says the FP400 can also be added to its own app over Thread when the phone and sensor are connected to the same local network. Users can then configure the room layout, detection zones, sensitivity, and absence delay before adding the device to their preferred Matter ecosystem.

This differs from many earlier Aqara sensors, which use Zigbee and must first connect to an Aqara hub. Zigbee may remain useful for homes already built around Aqara’s hubs and accessories, but Matter over Thread provides a more direct route to Apple Home and other Matter platforms. There is, however, some uncertainty in Aqara’s supplied information regarding zone exposure. The main product description states that up to eight custom occupancy zones can be exposed to third-party Matter platforms, alongside whole-room occupancy and illuminance sensors. A separate footnote states that Thread integration exposes only one overall presence sensor and one illuminance sensor. This may depend on the platform or firmware, but clarification will be needed.

FLEXIBLE INSTALLATION OPTIONS

The FP400 measures 64 x 64 x 29.5mm and is powered through a 5V/1A USB-C connection. It can be installed on a wall, ceiling, corner, lighting track, or within a recessed-light fitting. An adjustable mounting angle allows the sensor’s coverage area to be positioned according to the room layout. The sensor carries an IPX5 water-resistance rating and is designed to operate at temperatures ranging from -10°C ~ 50°C.

SPECIFICATIONS

• Model: PS-S05E / PS-S05D
• Dimensions: 64 x 64 x 29.5mm
• Power input: 5V/1A
• Connection: USB-C
• Wireless protocols: Thread and Zigbee
• Radar: 60GHz mmWave
• Field of view: 120º
• Maximum coverage: 10 x 8 metres
• Maximum occupants tracked: 10
• Zone resolution: 0.5 x 0.5 metres
• Protection rating: IPX5
• Operating temperature: -10°C ~ 50°C
• Operating humidity: 0~95% RH, without condensation

The Amazon package includes the FP400, a USB-C-to-USB-C cable, metal plate, adhesive sticker, screw kit, and user manual. Aqara’s retail version also includes an adjustable mounting bracket.

The FP400 is available now on Amazon in the US, UK, DE, FR, ES, and IT with a limited 10% discount using the code – AQARAFP400 (ends 9/28).