Smart home devices have been a big hit in 2017, with so many aspects of our houses changing thanks to the technologies. But window shades haven’t changed much even with the advancements. With lights automatically brightening in the evening and coffee pots brewing a batch as your alarm goes off, it’s surprising blinds haven’t gotten the same treatment. AXIS Gear is looking to change that with its motorized window shade system that offers smartphone controls and more.
The company behind Axis Gear had originally launched the product on Indiegogo just over 2 years ago. The campaign managed to raise the funds it needed, but it wasn’t until well into 2017 that the first round of backers received their units. Now Axis is back for round 2 with an updated model and is offering smart home enthusiasts the ability to preorder them ahead of the expected 2018 launch date.
Other internet-connected window blinds have been on the market for some time now. But what makes Axis Gear stand out is it’s lack of dependance on an existing ecosystem and that it enters with a more affordable price tag. Competitors like Lutron’s Serena blinds are tied to the company’s hub, a major turn-off for some. This doesn’t help with pricing either, as the Serena system is nearly twice the price as Axis’s solution.
Axis Gear comes in two different models; one that is reliant on Bluetooth for connectively and a second that supports both ZigBee or Z-Wave. The latter is touted as the more smart home-oriented version as it supports connections with popular systems like SmartThings, Home Assistant and more.
The motorized smart blind system is comprised of a small module that works with just about any set of window shades. Axis Gear’s small form-factor can be installed in just a few minutes and features an unobtrusive design to fit in with most homes. Aside from altering the natural lighting of a room from your smartphone, Axis Gear is also said to help cut down on heating and cooling expenses. Additional sunlight can increase a room’s temperature by a decent amount and help out during the winter months, saving you money in the long run.
The smart window blinds can currently be preordered for $199 direct from Axis. The Bluetooth variant will be shipping shortly after 2018 begins, with the smart home-oriented model arriving sometime in the spring. At a sub-$200 price range, the Axis Gear enters the market with an affordable package compared to competitors. But the real question is whether consumers are willing to pay that kind of money just to have their blinds open automatically for them.
AXIS Gear is an affordable and easy way to motorize your window shades. Using beautiful design and innovative software, Gear is a smart device that lets you easily control and schedule when your shades open and close, making your home more comfortable and secure. You’ll never have to touch your window shades again. Reserve your Gear today!
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