The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has been busy, and their filings are giving us a sneak peek at some exciting new tech coming soon from Google and Ikea. From smartphones to smart homes, here's what we've learned.
Google's Pixel 9a: A Budget Phone with Flagship Features?
Google's upcoming Pixel 9a, expected to launch in 2025, is generating buzz thanks to an FCC filing. The filing suggests that this mid-range device will boast at least one feature typically reserved for flagship smartphones. What could it be? While the specifics remain under wraps, the news is exciting for those looking for premium features without the premium price tag.
This isn't the only device recently certified by the FCC. The Galaxy Tab S10 FE is also expected to launch soon after receiving its own certification. It seems the FCC is playing a key role in ushering in the next generation of consumer tech.
"These FCC filings are crucial steps in bringing new devices to market, ensuring they meet regulatory standards and are safe for consumers," explains tech analyst Sarah Chen.
Ikea Enters the Thread with Timmerflotte
Ikea is diving deeper into the smart home world with its first Thread-enabled device: the Timmerflotte temperature sensor. This battery-powered sensor connects via Thread, a low-power, mesh-networking protocol integral to the Matter standard. This marks a significant step for Ikea, which has been gradually embracing smart home technology.
Currently, Ikea's Dirigera hub acts as a bridge, connecting its Wi-Fi and Zigbee-based smart home products to Matter setups. However, it doesn't yet function as a Thread border router. This means the Timmerflotte can connect directly to other Thread-enabled devices, bypassing the need for the Dirigera in certain scenarios.
What's Next for Ikea's Smart Home Strategy?
The introduction of Timmerflotte raises questions about the future of Ikea's Dirigera hub. Will Ikea activate the hub's dormant Thread radio, transforming it into a Thread border router? Google took a similar approach with its Nest Hub devices, suggesting it's a feasible path for Ikea. For now, users can connect the Timmerflotte to other Thread border routers like Amazon Echo, Apple HomePod, or SmartThings hubs.
We've reached out to Ikea for more details and will update this article as we learn more. Keep an eye out for further announcements from both Google and Ikea as they continue to innovate and expand their product offerings.