ESPHome version 1.18.0 has been released, marking the beginning of the transition to Nabu Casa. After several less notable updates, ESPHome version 1.18.0 brings significant new features and improvements, reminiscent of its earlier major updates. This release includes comprehensive integration of the Bosch BME680 sensor, eliminating the need for complex formulas. It also adds support for GROW fingerprint readers, introduces a BLE client and sensor, and more. Read on to explore the exciting features of this latest ESPHome release!
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Enhanced BME680 Integration Using BSEC
The BME680 is a versatile multisensor that measures ambient temperature, relative humidity, barometric pressure, and gas resistance. This allows you to create a personal air quality tracker with a single sensor. Previously, complex formulas were required to calculate Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), CO2 equivalents, and VOC equivalents. However, ESPHome now leverages Bosch's official proprietary algorithms, making these calculations straightforward.
The Bosch Sensortec Environmental Cluster (BSEC) is a software library that unlocks all the features of the BME680. With an ESP8266 board and this sensor, you can build your own climate and air quality monitor. Keep in mind that the BME680 cannot replace all sensors; you might still need a PM2.5 sensor like the HM3301 or SPS30 for comprehensive air quality monitoring.
Support for GROW Fingerprint Readers
ESPHome now supports fingerprint readers, specifically those from Hangzhou Grow Technology Co., Ltd. The popular R503 capacitive model features a robust metal body and can store up to 200 fingerprints. It includes an onboard DSP chip for image rendering and fingerprint searching, and a built-in bicolour Aura LED for illumination and effects.
Alternatives like the optical R307 fingerprint reader are also supported, although they are bulkier and slower than their capacitive counterparts.
Implementing GROW fingerprint readers in ESPHome projects may be complex, but the extensive documentation on the ESPHome website provides detailed guidance.
New BLE Client and Sensor
ESPHome version 1.18.0 introduces a Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) client and sensor. BLE devices that do not require a PIN can now connect to an ESP32 board, enabling new integrations with Home Assistant.
In BLE, a server provides data, and a client collects it. Devices like heart rate monitors (HRM) or OBD2 car diagnostic adapters serve data to an app, which now can be replaced by an ESP32 board. This allows devices to send data directly to Home Assistant via ESPHome.
The BLE sensor queries BLE devices for specific service characteristics, allowing you to utilize the collected data in various ways.
Additional Features in ESPHome 1.18.0
ESPHome 1.18.0 includes support for the SGP40, a digital VOC sensor from Sensirion, and the SHT4X, a series of temperature and humidity sensors. The TCA9548A I²C Multiplexer expands the number of available I²C channels, enhancing project flexibility.
The update also supports tracking the b-parasite sensor, which monitors soil moisture and ambient temperature/humidity using BLE.
Newly added is the TOF10120 time of flight distance sensor, which is faster and more suitable for moist environments compared to ultrasonic sensors.
Additionally, the SM2135 LED driver support allows ESPHome to control more commercially available bulbs.
The new External Components feature simplifies the sharing of components by allowing easy import from GitHub and local sources, potentially opening up ESPHome to a wider community, similar to Home Assistant's Blueprints.
Summary
ESPHome 1.18.0 brings significant enhancements, including better BME680 integration, support for fingerprint readers, and a BLE client. These features, along with additional sensor support and the new External Components feature, make this release a substantial update for ESPHome users. Explore these new capabilities to enhance your home automation projects.
