Toronto-based ecobee has announced that its next-generation ecobee4 smart thermostat features built-in Amazon Alexa voice command functionality, coupled with Apple HomeKit compatibility.
However, while the IoT device is designed in Canada, it wonât be launching here right away. The Ecobee4 is set to cost $248 CAD ($181 USD) and pre-orders begin shipping on May 15th in the United States.
While the ecobee3 is also compatible with Alexa, it can only be controlled with voice commands using an external device like the Amazon Echo â which also isnât available in Canada â as well as an Android or iOS app. Itâs possible that the fact that Amazonâs Alexa isnât available in Canada has something to do with the ecobee4 not releasing in the US and Canada simultaneously.
Itâs worth noting that if youâre interested in purchasing the ecobee4 from a US retailer, itâs likely that all of Alexaâs functionality will still work here. Other than weather forecasts and buying products from Amazon with voice commands, the Echo works great north of the US border.
ecobee says that the ecobee4 comes with one wireless room sensor, and has the ability to support up to 32 sensors in total. The company is also planning to release a companion smart light switch that is capable of measuring a roomâs occupancy and temperature later this year.
Regarding Canadian availability and pricing, a representative from ecobee said the following:
âAt this time, Amazon Alexa Voice Service is not available in Canada. Therefore, to ensure the best possible customer experience, the ecobee4 will only be sold in the US. If Alexa Voice Service becomes available in Canada, ecobee4 will as well. We know Amazonâs goal is to have Alexa everywhere Amazon is, and in the case of Canada, that would include ecobee4. For now, Canadian customers can choose between the Ecobee3 lite and Ecobee3 smart thermostats â both featuring category leading smart technology including room sensors.â
This article was originally published on MobileSyrup