Home automation specialist Josh.ai has introduced its latest hardware offering, Josh Micro, ahead of its debut at CEDIA 2017.
The second offering from Denver-based manufacturer Josh.ai runs its Josh.ai software on a far-field microphone for hands-free voice control.
Compact in size, Josh Micro combines a home control processor, far-field microphone array and user interface – all of which fits into the palm of a hand.
“While designing Josh Micro, our goal was to distill home control down to its simplest form, providing an effortless interaction in any environment,” commented Alex Capecelatro, CEO at Josh.ai.
Capable of managing an entire home, each Josh Micro is a full control system that can create a network throughout the home, in addition to offering a scalable business model for dealers with a one-processor-by-room model.
Each Micro is preloaded with Josh automation software and can instantly connect to the home’s network and discover connect devices, without the need for any custom programming. Josh works with systems from the likes of Control4, Crestron, Lutron, Sonos and Sony, among others.
The hardware incorporates technologies like anaphora (memory), compound commands, and audio and video deep-linking for its voice experience.
Josh Micro begins listening with the wake words “Hey Josh,” as well as a tap of its surface or using its built-in motion sensor. It is able to understand its location in the home, meaning room commands can be simplified to “turn on the lights” or “play hip hop music.” It can also accept compounds commands, such as “Open the shades, dim the lights, stop the music, and watch Mad Men.”
Josh Micro can be mounted to a wall, rack or mount or placed on its own. Its multi-purpose tap area can be programmed to activate a scene, but by default a single tap activates the microphone and a double tap mutes the device.
The edge of Josh Micro’s surface acts as a smart touch ring capable of adapting the last command given – for example, adapting to control volume when asked to control music or changing to be a dimmer when asking to oversee lighting. Built-in motion, touch, temperature, humidity and ambient light sensors can additionally be used for customising scenes and automation.
Installers can choose between a WiFi setup and power over any 120V outlet, or get power/data over PoE for large custom projects.
Josh.ai will be exhibiting at CEDIA 2017 at Booth 1810. This year’s show runs from 5 to 7 September at the San Diego Convention Centre.