Lots to press: Onvis brings HomeKit buttons with five buttons

The HomeKit world is lacking a very simple product: there are only a few good smart buttons. Some shift too slowly, others have unergonomic pushers, and others even require a dedicated stroke for the switching process. Chinese company Onvis is now bringing its own button: the 5-key switch HS2 Offers a wide range of functions, at least on paper.

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Connection via thread

One of the official Onvis stores on Amazon about 40 euros This expensive device offers a total of five buttons in a compact housing: a round button in the middle and four others, each arranged with dots. Each button can be assigned three features: press once, press twice and long press. You can see what has been triggered by a different coloured LED. The 5-key switch is connected via Thread (plus BLE 5.0), so it needs a Current HomeKit Home Control Center Like the HomePod 2, HomePod mini, or a fairly new Apple TV.

The Onvis doesn’t use Matter, it’s purely a HomeKit device. This can have its advantages and disadvantages – pure HomeKit components often cause fewer problems than Matter devices when integrated into Apple Home, but they can’t be integrated into other smart home systems like Google or Samsung. The Onvis buttons are controlled through the Home app, where you can assign different actions or entire scenes to the switch.

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Magnetically attaches to the band

The 5-key switch is powered by a replaceable CR2450 battery. According to the manufacturer, it should last up to a year. The power storage can be accessed from the back of the button, you just turn it on. The delivery also includes a suspension in which you can magnetically insert the 5-key switch so you don’t lose it.

It comes with adhesive tape on the back for sticking it to the wall; alternatively, a dowel and screw are included for a more secure installation. The button is light and feels a little flimsy due to the plastic used. In a short test, switching processes were pleasantly fast. A sheet with stickers helps to label the five buttons in total, otherwise it’s easy to lose track. Onvis also has a Your app For firmware upgrades and other control options.

(B.Sc.)