User:Hutchdeluxe/Wink (platform)

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Wink is the brand name of a platform for home automation, originated and promoted by Quirky, an invention portal and online retailer. Originally designed around an app for mobile devices, Wink systems can include lighting/switches, HVAC, sensors, and security components. It serves as a unified control system for automation, and competes with similar systems from SmartThings and Nexia Home Intelligence, system integrators such as Control4, as well as some brand-specific standalone systems by companies like Belkin (WEMO), Crestron Electronics, Insteon, and Nest (formerly Revolv^[1]). Systems based on Wink are self-hosting and do not require a monthly service to operate, but can be considered alternatives to monitored security and automation systems offered by various cable companies and home security vendors.

Architecture

The basis of a Wink network is either a Wink Hub or Relay. The Hub relies on a device running the Wink app for control, while the Relay is a wall-mounted unit that integrates management functions and a touchscreen. Devices supporting the Wink system are linked wirelessly and can communicate over a number of protocols, including Z-Wave, ZigBee, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and proprietary protocols such as Lutron ClearConnect.^[2]

Companies and Partnerships

Wink.com and the Wink app were created by Quirky and is a subsidiary of the invention promoter.^[3] Quirky sells their own branded devices and third-party compatible products through both Quirky.com and Wink.com retail sites.

Manufacturers

Non-exhaustive list of brands selling devices compatible with the Wink system (as of November 2014):

Quirky + GE

GE and Quirky have a number of cross-promoted co-branded products designed to work with Wink. These include GE Link smart bulbs and lighting,^[4] Aros Smart Air Conditioner^[5], and wiring fixtures such as the Outlink smart outlet^[6]. Many more Quirky+GE- and GE-branded products have been added as of November 2014.

Retailers

Wink has partnered with Amazon.com and The Home Depot to sell and promote the Wink-branded and compatible devices. Both websites offer consumer education on automation and user-generated reviews of individual products.

Services

IFTTT (If This Then That), a general-purpose online automation tool, can trigger actions in relation to a user's Wink system. This is configured through channels within the IFTTT portal or app, in combination with corresponding devices such as the Wink Spotter.^[7]^[8]

References

[1] Revolv

[2] ttp://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,2817,2468748,00.asp Wink Hub Review - PCMag

[3] Wink Hub - Quirky

[4] GE Link smart LED bulb can communicate with smart devices

[5] Quirky Aros Smart Air Conditioner - CNet

[6] Quirky+GE Outlink - Wink

[7] IFTTT - Wink: Spotter Channel

[8] Review: Quirky Spotter, by Steve Jenkins

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