Nanoleaf, the company behind wall-shaped panels that let customers create their own multi-colored, abstract designs announced the launch of their own Thread Border Routers via the Nanoleaf Shapes and Elements Controllers. This new router will start to work with Nanoleaf Essentials devices automatically once their Shapes and Elements controller is connected to your home Wi-Fi network. For iOS users, you will be able to enjoy this update immediately while Android users will have to wait until Nanoleaf finishes their testing of their app. The Android app is in beta testing.

Nanoleaf is also announcing their partnership with Amazon-owned eero to broaden the Thread ecosystem with their mesh-Wi-Fi routers launching as Thread Border Routers. The eero Pro, eero Beacon, eero Pro 6, and eero 6 will work as Border Routers with the Nanoleaf Essentials line as the first compatible products at launch. eero plans to expand compatibility to other products with future updates.

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Nanoleaf and eero join Apple and Google as part of the first wave of companies to bring Thread Border Routers to the market and open them to Thread-based smart home devices, leading the way for the new network protocol that is changing the smart home experience with faster speeds and greater reliability. Nanoleaf is working closely with the Thread Group to actively expand and build a larger interoperable system of devices, with the goal of creating a unified smart home experience for all users.

The Thread Border Router function is built into the Nanoleaf Shapes Controller, Nanoleaf Elements Controller, and eero line of mesh-wi-fi routers which bridges the Wi-Fi network to a Thread network, eliminating the need for extra hubs. This will help connect all your Thread-enabled devices, forming a mesh network that allows each device to speak the same universal language. The result is a much more reliable network where devices can communicate with one another, rather than relying on a single connection source like Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The Thread Border Router also enables cloud control on Nanoleaf Essentials devices for integrations like Alexa, Samsung SmartThings, and Google Assistant.

Existing users with a Shapes or Elements Controller will be able to use Thread immediately with a software update currently available in the Nanoleaf App (version 6.1). To install the latest update, go to More > Firmware Updates. Essentials will need to be updated to version 1.6 and Shapes and Elements need to be updated to version 6.1.

Nanoleaf devices work on several different wireless connection standards. Besides Wi-Fi and Apple HomeKit, the company announced a few months ago their products will work with the new smart home wireless communication standard, Matter. Adding Thread to the mix is a smart move. It will make it easier for Nanoleaf customers to connect their devices with other compatible products and the Thread Border Routers will improve the wireless connection, so you get the ultimate experience.

Check out The GearBrain, our smart home compatibility find engine to see the other compatible products that work with Nanoleaf and Thread wireless connections.

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