Homey’s new wall-mounted controller aims to simplify the smart home

The Homey Portal features a 2.8-inch round display that can be wall-mounted or placed on a desk, connecting via USB-C. Users can tap icons to trigger specific devices or rotate the integrated dial to adjust brightness, temperature, or volume. According to Athom CEO Stefan Witkamp, the goal is to replicate the simplicity of a standard light switch, removing the friction often associated with navigating multiple smartphone menus. The device supports over 70,000 products from 2,000 brands, including compatibility with Matter, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Thread protocols.

Functionality requires a connection to a Homey hub or cloud service, as the Portal itself does not act as a central controller. This ecosystem supports local communication, ensuring devices remain operational even if the internet connection drops. While the hardware avoids microphones to keep the focus on physical interaction, it maintains integration with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and Siri Shortcuts for those who still prefer voice commands. Following an introductory window, the price will rise to $299, a significant investment for users looking to outfit multiple rooms. Homey expects to begin shipping units in December, with a public demonstration scheduled at the IFA tech show in Berlin.