Home Assistant Podcast A new Z-wave radio launches, and a new home screen on the horizon with Home Assistant 2024.9
Sep 2, 2025
Discover the exciting launch of a new Z-Wave radio from Home Assistant, designed to enhance smart home efficiency. The hosts delve into the challenges and innovations in Z-Wave technology, discussing long-range support limitations. They also explore new features in Home Assistant, including smart integrations like Rainbird irrigation and improved Husqvarna automower functionalities. Learn about enhanced device tracking, AI-driven security upgrades, and the balance between simplicity and complexity in home automation.
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Smooth Z‑Wave Migration Success
- Phil migrated his ~60 Z‑Wave devices from an older 500 series stick to the Home Assistant Connect ZWA2 using MVM backup and restore.
- Everything transferred and worked immediately, including secure battery devices and wall dimmers.
Region Limits Still Constrain Long‑Range Z‑Wave
- The ZWA2 ships multi‑region frequency support so a single device can be set to a country's band.
- Long‑range Z‑Wave remains region‑limited and not yet enabled globally, limiting LR benefits outside the US.
Choosing Rainbird For Reliability
- Rohan installed a Rainbird irrigation system and found the Rainbird app slow but appreciated built‑in weather‑based runtime adjustments.
- He kept scheduling in Rainbird because the installer would warranty the official unit for two years.