Eve Aqua Smart Water Controller update brings Thread to the great outdoors

Eve Systems has announced the release of a new firmware update that brings Thread networking technology to the company's Eve Aqua Smart Water Controller. The release is the second in a series of updates that Eve Systems plans to introduce that will bring Thread networking to its entire HomeKit product line.

With Thread enabled, users can enjoy an extended range when a Thread device with router capabilities like Eve Energy is placed between Eve Aqua and a HomePod Mini. As a Full Thread Device, Eve Energy relays other Thread accessories' data packages and enhances the stability and reach of the smart home.

Starting today, owners of the second-generation Eve Aqua Smart Water Controller can download the update for free via the Eve for HomeKit app. The second-generation Eve Aqua first began shipping in the summer of 2020, and it can be identified by the following model numbers:

• 10EBM8101 / 20EBM8101 (Australia & Europe)
• 10EBM4101 / 20EBM4101 (U.S. & Canada)

Source: Eve Systems

According to Eve Systems, when compared to Bluetooth connectivity, Thread networking offers faster response times, greater reliability, and increased range. Eve also touts Thread as being "future-proof" as it is a component of the Connected Home over IP project (CHIP), which aims to build a unified connectivity protocol for the smart home and is backed by Apple, Google, and Amazon.

To take advantage of Thread capabilities in the Eve Aqua, a HomePod mini — which acts as a Border Router, must be present in the home. After installing the firmware update, the Eve Aqua will automatically switch to Thread in the background without any additional steps by the user. Users can confirm that the Eve Aqua is utilizing Thread via the Eve for HomeKit app, which provides a breakdown of connection quality and routes of all of the home's active Thread devices.

The Eve Aqua, our top pick for the best HomeKit Sprinkler Controllers, is an effortless way to add smart controls to sprinklers, irrigation systems, and more by attaching directly to a standard outdoor water faucet. Through HomeKit and the Eve for HomeKit app, users can water on-demand, create custom watering schedules, set default run times, monitor usage, and enable a child lock to prevent accidental button presses.

The Eve Aqua Smart Water Controller is available at various outlets such as Amazon, Best Buy, and Apple for a retail price of $99.95. Thread-enabled versions of the Eve Energy Smart Plug, Eve Weather temperature sensor, Eve Flare portable light, and Eve Motion sensor are also slated for release throughout 2021. Additional information about Eve's Thread rollout can be found by visiting evehome.com.