Lighting control startup Orro today introduced the Orro Switch, which the company promises is “the world’s most advanced responsive and adaptive home lighting system.”
The Orro Switch has an onboard microprocessor and an array of sensors. The exact details aren’t yet available, but the basic idea is the switch detects movement and presence and learns how you use light in your home. Just because you are sitting still in a room, binge-watching, for example, Orro won’t assume you have left and turn off the lights just because it doesn’t detect movement.
Orro claims the switch adjusts to sunrise and sunset, incorporating natural light rhythms and the times you turn lights on and off and the brightness levels you choose. The microprocessor includes a universal dimmer that works with all bulbs and lighting fixtures.
After a week of use, Orro claims its eponymous switch will learn how you like to use light and will take over control if you allow it. The end result, according to the company, is home lighting that supports the way you live and also helps you sleep better at night.
Once you complete the initial setup for the Orro Switch, you no longer need to use a smartphone, although Orro says its own mobile app has unspecified “extra capabilities.” All Orro Switch features are “opt-in,” including which sensors are activated and what data is shared with the app and the cloud.
The device is, of course, voice command-compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home to turn lights on and off, set brightness levels, and trigger routines or scenes. Installing and setting up an Orro Switch takes just 15 minutes and common household tools. Because Orro uses industrial and automotive electrical components in its switches, it claims the Orro Switch will last at least ten years.
Orro connects with the cloud, but your lighting settings are stored in the switch so if you lose Wi-Fi or internet access, your lighting preferences are still available to you. aren’t held hostage until you regain connectivity.
The Orro Swtich is available now for $199 @ https://getorro.com/
