IKEA, the Swedish powerhouse known for affordable furniture and delicious meatballs, has caught wind of the smart home revolution. In response, they're set to launch their first smart air purifier, STARKVIND, this October. But this isn't just any ordinary air purifier—it doubles as a side table, seamlessly blending form and function.
A mighty gust: STARKVIND's features
True to its name, which translates to “strong wind”, STARKVIND packs a powerful punch compared to its predecessor. It's equipped with larger filters, making it suitable for rooms up to 20 m². Additionally, it features an air quality monitor that automatically adjusts the fan's speed to optimize filtration.
Not a fan of Wi-Fi? No problem. STARKVIND utilizes Zigbee for communication and requires a TRÅDFRI gateway for remote control. Once set up, you can adjust the fan speed via the IKEA Home smart app.
The art of disguise: air purifiers as furniture
One might wonder why anyone would desire an air purifier built into a side table. The answer is simple: most air purifiers are space hogs, serving no purpose beyond cleaning the air. Integrating an air purifier into a side table makes efficient use of space, combining utility with aesthetics. IKEA's clever move could pave the way for more furniture-based air purifiers in the future.
A gateway to smart control
Initially, IKEA's STARKVIND will only be compatible with the TRÅDFRI gateway for remote control. However, given its simplicity, the device is likely to be embraced by Zigbee2MQTT and ZHA in due course. With just a few smart functions—namely, turning the purifier on or off and adjusting fan speed – STARKVIND can also operate as a “dumb” air purifier in auto mode, adjusting speed based on PM2.5 particle levels in the air.
In summary, IKEA's STARKVIND offers a refreshing take on smart air purifiers, proving that even the humble air purifier can become a stylish and functional piece of furniture.
