Homey Launches $299 Physical Smart Home Controller with Rotary Dial
Homey, a Dutch smart home platform owned by LG, has unveiled the Homey Portal, a $299 touchscreen controller featuring a physical rotary dial for managing lights, climate, and audio. The device, which launched at IFA 2026, aims to simplify smart home control by offering a tactile alternative to app-based management. It supports over 70,000 devices across 2,000 brands and integrates with Matter, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Thread. Preorders opened at an introductory price of $249, with shipping scheduled for December. The Portal requires a separate hub, such as the Homey Pro or Cloud service, to function, and lacks a built-in microphone for voice control, relying instead on third-party assistants.
Key points
- The Homey Portal is a 2.8-inch round touchscreen device with a stainless steel rotary dial, priced at $299 (introductory price $249).
- It supports over 70,000 devices from 2,000 brands and works with Matter, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Thread protocols.
- The device requires a separate hub (Homey Pro, Pro Mini, Cloud, or Self-Hosted Server) and does not include a microphone for voice control.
- Preorders opened in September 2026, with units shipping in December; the device can be mounted on a wall or placed on a desk.
- Homey, owned by LG, positions the Portal as a simpler alternative to app-based control, emphasizing physical interaction over digital interfaces.
Background
Homey, founded in 2014, has previously expanded its ecosystem with hubs and energy management features. The company is owned by LG and integrates with LG’s AI Home platform. The Portal’s launch follows Homey’s earlier moves to support more devices and improve automation, including a new device update feature for Matter, Z-Wave, and Zigbee devices. The device competes with other smart home controllers like Aqara, Shelly, and Brilliant, but distinguishes itself through broader device support and ease of installation.
Why it matters
The Homey Portal addresses a common pain point in smart homes: the complexity of app-based control. By offering a physical, tactile interface, it aims to make smart home management more intuitive and accessible. Its broad device support and integration with major protocols position it as a potential hub for diverse smart home ecosystems. However, the high price and requirement for a separate hub may limit its appeal to budget-conscious consumers. The device’s success could influence the market’s shift toward physical control interfaces in smart homes.
What to watch
The Homey Portal is expected to ship in December 2026. Homey may expand its device support and integration features in the future. The company could also introduce new hubs or services to complement the Portal. Consumer adoption will depend on the device’s ease of use, price, and compatibility with existing smart home setups. Homey may also explore partnerships with other brands to expand its ecosystem.
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