Lowe’s Iris Line Goes Under
Many consumers are seeing red with the recent news that big-box retailer Lowe’s is shutting down service to its Iris smart home platform.
Lowe’s launched its Iris cloud service in 2012 so it could sell its own smart home products to the public. Customers with an Iris smart hub, the heart of the network, could keep in touch with the connected devices in their home via the free Iris app. Smart home products ran the gamut from thermostat controllers to lights and sensors.
Why This Is Bad News for DIYers
Iris was originally intended to be a hub for everything in the home, as this TechHive review describes, but it turned into primarily a security offering for DIYers who wanted security on a budget. Once the hub was hooked up by a hardwired ethernet line to a router, consumers could add other sensors to the network like motion sensors and keypads. While it was cheap, the set-up process was arduous based on numerous poor reviews, and false alarms were far too easy to trip.
It’s part of the risk that comes with new technology, and it indeed isn’t the first or last time this will happen. Other extinct hubs include Revolv, and it’s predicted in tech circles that other smart home offerings will likely fall since smart speakers like Amazon Echo or Google Home can serve similar purposes to hubs and are more straightforward to use.
Iris users are now left to pick up the pieces. Customers with eligible products that work only on the Iris platform will be able to redeem them for a prepaid VISA gift card, according to Lowe’s FAQs. Iris devices that are compatible with other hubs will not be eligible for any refunds. The only way to redeem anything, however, is online. Connected Iris items cannot be returned to Lowe’s stores.
To ensure that you have a system that will always have your back, it’s essential to go with a company with a proven track record. Our team at FSS Technologies can work with you to build the best system for your home. You will always get the best products with the best monitoring and regular upgrades as technology continues to move forward. Guaranteed. Give our friendly pros a call to get started today!
Explore Our Other Blogs
What Matters in a Fire Alarm Inspection?
At FSS Technologies, we understand that safety and reliability are paramount when it comes to fire alarm systems. While installing commercial fire safety systems is a critical first step in protecting your business, your efforts can’t stop there. Fire alarm inspections are just as necessary to ensure your building is prepared for emergencies. Learn about what…
Emergency Egress 101 for Commercial Buildings
When people think about emergency egress, they usually picture exit signs and the nearest door. In reality, egress is the entire route occupants rely on to get out quickly and safely—often under heightened stress, reduced visibility, and crowded conditions. When a means of egress isn’t clear or usable, even a minor emergency can turn into…
Smoke Detectors for the Hearing Impaired
What are Visual Fire Alarms? If a fire breaks out, occupants of a building may have as little as two minutes to get out before the fire becomes life-threatening. Fire alarms provide an early warning notification and alert people to evacuate, but what if you are deaf or hearing impaired? How do you know there…
Fire Prevention, Protection, and Suppression Systems
Fire safety is a crucial matter that every business should prioritize. Whether it’s caused by arson or an accident, a fire can cause catastrophic damage to a company’s property, inventory, and equipment if the proper protection measures aren’t in place or there are operational issues. In more unfortunate cases, insufficient fire safety standards can put…
Best Security System Setups for Senior Citizens
According to the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), nearly 90% of senior citizens want to stay in their homes as they age even if they need day-to-day assistance or have ongoing health issues like early-stage Alzheimer’s or dementia. Unfortunately, criminals often target senior citizens as victims. Thieves assume older people will not be able…
Kidde: Innovations in Fire Safety
Your fire alarm system can protect your family, home, and belongings from fires, gas leaks, and other hazards. FSS Technologies is committed to providing its customers with top-of-the-line fire safety and emergency prevention technology, which is why we are a proud provider of products from Kidde, North America’s most installed fire safety brand. Learn about…
Which Businesses are Burglarized Most?
The idea of business theft and burglary is not a pleasant one; however, the likelihood of your business being burglarized is rather high. In fact, approximately 37% of small business owners were impacted by burglary or theft over the past year. Retail businesses in particular are highly targeted as thieves are seeking the opportunity to either use or resell stolen items. Everything from simple shoplifting to employee theft can contribute to overall business…
Winter Commercial Fire Safety Tips
While fire safety and prevention are crucial year-round, unique fire hazards accompany winter’s freezing temperatures. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) reports that many holiday-related factors contribute to an increased fire risk during the winter months, and commercial settings are just as vulnerable. Besides creating and reviewing company-wide fire safety procedures, here are 4 tips…
How Do Fire Alarm Control Panels Work
A fire alarm control panel is the brain of any commercial fire system. It constantly monitors connected devices, processes signals, and activates alarms when necessary. Understanding how a control panel works can help business owners, facility managers, and safety professionals recognize just how vital this piece of equipment is in protecting people and property. What…
Motion Detector Installation Basics
Motion detection devices are a crucial component of any security system, commercial or residential. They allow owners to cover a relatively large amount of space with a small number of devices. Motion detectors also are known to detect activity that window sensors might miss. When it comes time to install motion detection devices, remember these…