Wifi-connected A/C unit is controlled via smartphone

Aros is a smart air conditioning unit that offers automated control as well as allowing users to monitor their usage.

We’ve already seen smart heating systems such as the Nest thermostat, that can help homeowners cut their heating bills through smart settings and enabling users to control it remotely. For the summer months, Aros is an air conditioning unit that offers automated control as well as allowing users to monitor their usage.

The device, which was developed by invention developer Quirky alongside GE, aims to replace standard A/C units that can only be turned on or off, or set to come on at specific times of the day. Aros can be connected to users’ home wifi and synced with their smartphones through Quirky’s Wink app to enable them to control their home temperature anywhere. Homeowners can set complicated schedules and adjust them at any time, and the system detects when they’re out of the house and automatically switches off. It then uses GPS to detect when they’re on the way back and turns the system back on. The app lets users see how much energy they’re expending on their A/C and even offers suggestions on how to save money depending on the upcoming weather. The video below explains more about the product:

Aros can be pre-ordered for USD 300 via Amazon, and is set to ship early next month. Are there other ways to cut household spending by making devices a bit smarter?