Mar 29 2017
Rachio today announced that its smart sprinkler controller is the first and only to be directly integrated into the Google Assistant. In addition, Rachio will be compatible with the SmartThings platform as a certified Works with SmartThings partner. These integrations make it even easier for homeowners to control their sprinkler systems.
Rachio is World’s First Smart Sprinkler Controller to Deliver Full Integration with the Google Assistant (Credit: Business Wire)
Internet-connected devices are exploding in popularity and expected to hit 46 billion in 2021, a 200 percent increase from 2016 (Juniper Research). As many of these gadgets may not have traditional screen-based interfaces, voice assistants will play an important role in how people engage with them.
Rachio’s simple-to-use app lets people manage their sprinkler system from any smart mobile device; the addition of the Google Assistant makes it even more convenient. Now, people can use any supported Google Home device to control almost every aspect of their sprinkler system, by simply saying, “Ok Google, ask Rachio to stop watering,” or “Ok Google, tell Rachio to set a rain delay.”
In addition, Rachio is adding the advanced scheduling capabilities of SmartThings to its functionality. SmartThings users can soon add their Rachio controller as a “Thing,” and manage their sprinklers directly within the SmartThings App. Homeowners will appreciate the option to incorporate Rachio into SmartThings routines, such as using a ‘door open’ sensor to stop watering a specific zone. This integration is slated to go live in mid-April.
With these new integrations, Rachio further solidifies its position as the most connected smart sprinkler controller on the market and gives homeowners the most flexibility to incorporate Rachio into their existing smart home ecosystems. Rachio’s comprehensive portfolio of smart home integrations currently includes Amazon Alexa, Nest, Xfinity, Control4, Crestron, IFTTT, Nexia and Wink and now the Google Assistant.
“The smart home industry is experiencing explosive growth thanks to technologies like voice control. By adding the popular Google Assistant to the Rachio ecosystem, we’re making it even easier for people to make smart choices around irrigation,” said Chris Klein, CEO of Rachio. “We’re committed to staying at the forefront of the smart home by partnering with leaders in the space and continually driving innovation.”
Rachio can save homeowners up to 50 percent off their monthly water bill by constantly monitoring weather and automatically adjusting irrigation schedules for precision watering. Rachio’s Weather Intelligence™ taps a home’s Wi-Fi network and connects to a network of thousands of weather stations. It analyzes past and future weather reports, and considers these stats, as well as a yard’s soil type and lawn conditions so homeowners no longer need to worry about watering schedules. The intuitive app enables homeowners to monitor and adjust their schedule from their mobile devices, inspiring yard envy while saving water and money with EPA WaterSense Certified irrigation technology.
The Rachio smart sprinkler controller can efficiently manage up to 16 zones, and is compatible with nearly every home sprinkler system. Learn more or purchase at Amazon, Apple.com, Home Depot, BestBuy.com and Rachio.com, and download the free Rachio app on iTunes and Google Play, as well as at Rachio.com.