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This in-wall smart outlet can be controlled by Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

This in-wall smart outlet can be controlled by Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

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It can also monitor energy usage on devices that are plugged into it

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The ConnectSense Smart In-Wall Outlet.
The ConnectSense Smart In-Wall Outlet.
Image: ConnectSense

Most smart outlets are bricks that you plug into the outlet that’s already installed in your wall and then control that with your phone or a voice assistant. But there are some smart outlets that can replace your existing in-wall outlet if you’re willing to do some simple wiring. The new ConnectSense Smart In-Wall Outlet is one of these devices that installs directly into your wall and lets you turn on or off the devices that are plugged into it with Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant. It’s now available in either 15 or 20 amp versions for $79 and $99, respectively.

Since the Smart In-Wall Outlet replaces your existing power outlet, you need to do some simple wiring to install it. It probably won’t be a great option for renters or those with older homes that lack a neutral wire, which is required.

Once installed, the outlet can be controlled with the ConnectSense app for either iOS or Android or through voice controls to one of the smart assistants. It has full support for Apple’s HomeKit platform, so you can also control it with the Home app. You can also tap the capacitive buttons to the right of each outlet to turn them on or off.

The Smart In-Wall Outlet installs directly into your walls, replacing your existing outlet.
The Smart In-Wall Outlet installs directly into your walls, replacing your existing outlet.
Image: ConnectSense

In addition to the variety of ways to control the outlets, the Smart In-Wall Outlet can also measure the power usage of devices plugged into it and provide real-time voltage readings within the ConnectSense app. It connects directly to a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network and doesn’t require an additional hub or hardware to function.

There are relatively few in-wall outlets that can work with all three major voice assistants, measure power usage, and that don’t require a separate hub to function. The other major option is the iDevices Wall Outlet. That model has a similar set of features to the ConnectSense version, but it has a list price of $89.99 for the 15 amp model (though it can be found for less on Amazon).

ConnectSense says the Smart In-Wall Outlet is available for purchase now through either the company’s online store or Amazon.

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