HomeTech.fm Episode 557 - CES Live - Apollo Automation Monthly Livestream
Jan 9, 2026
Kyle Raley, Director of Operations at Apollo Automation, dives into the exciting realms of tech from CES 2026. He discusses Apollo's partnership with the Open Home Foundation, enhancing community innovation. Kyle explains the benefits of using ESPHome and Wi-Fi for local sensors, and Justin reveals the groundbreaking features of the new Button 1. The panel also explores trends in robotics, like LiDAR lawnmowers, and shares thoughts on smart home challenges. Community feedback plays a key role in shaping future products, promising an engaging DIY landscape.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Apollo Partners With Open Home Foundation
- Apollo Automation became a commercial partner with the Open Home Foundation and will help steward ESPHome and related projects.
- This partnership aims to grow ESPHome's ecosystem and make it more ubiquitous for device manufacturers and users.
Bathroom Sensor Experiment Got Removed
- Gavin installed a millimeter‑wave Apollo sensor in a bathroom to trigger the fan and drown noise, but his spouse quickly removed it.
- The experiment illustrates creative sensor placements can be useful but may face household pushback.
Try Zigbee Branch For Better Button Performance
- Test Zigbee support on Button 1 using the ESPHome Zigbee branch on GitHub to evaluate performance and battery life.
- Expect Zigbee to wake faster and use slightly less battery than Wi‑Fi for the Button 1 device.