Australian-based smart home vendor SmartSetup has launched a new Matter-compatible in-wall outlet designed for the North American market. While the in-wall outlet category is nothing new when it comes to Matter, the release of the new SmartSetup Outlet is noteworthy as it is the first solution that combines Thread connectivity with on-device USB ports.
SmartSetup Outlet: why it matters
According to its product listing, the SmartSetup Outlet features a white, flame-resistant polycarbonate frame that measures 4.92 x 3.15 x 0.1 inches. The outlet sports a clean decora-style design similar to that of the Eve Energy Outlet, with the front dominated by two AC receptacles and a pair of toggle buttons that imply that they are independently controllable through smart home ecosystems.
Also on the front are the aforementioned USB ports—one USB-A and one Type-C. The ports support a maximum load of 5-volt/2.1-amps, but SmartSetup's specifications do not state wattage, and it is currently unclear as to whether or not they are exposed to Matter.
In addition to its USB ports, the SmartSetup Outlet also appears to be the first Matter-compatible in-wall outlet to support 15-amp AC electrical loads up to 2,500 watts. Up until now, most in-wall outlets and smart plugs were limited to 1,800 watts, giving SmartSetup's offering greater automation potential by opening the doors to higher-power appliances, lighting, and equipment.
As previously mentioned, the new SmartSetup Outlet continues the company's embrace of Matter and Thread technologies by joining its existing smart light switch. SmartSetup marketing boasts that Thread gives its in-wall outlet the ability to operate locally without an internet connection or cloud dependency, while still delivering reliable performance through mesh networking.
Matter Over Thread Certified One Gang Wall Switch MS01
A Matter-certified smart wall switch that powers smart lighting and extends your Thread network while supporting multiple ecosystems with or without a neutral wire.
Thread also enables direct pairing to all of the major smart home platforms like Amazon, Apple Home, SmartThings, and Google Home. All that is needed to get connected is an active Thread Border Router, Matter Controller, and a quick scan of the device's QR pairing code.
SmartSetup Outlet: pricing and availability
The SmartSetup Outlet is now available for purchase in the U.S. through Amazon. The outlet is currently priced at $34.99 with free Prime shipping, and deliveries are slated for later this week.
(Source: Amazon)
