Earlier this year, Securifi debuted a pair of “smart” routers, known as the Almond+ and Almond 2015. Just in case you aren’t thrilled about the prospect of upgrading that part of your home network, know that these routers can control the Nest Thermostat and Nest Protect.
The company just announced Nest integration, so you can control both the Nest Thermostat and Nest Protect right through your Almond router. And if someone in the house wants it to be 70 degrees and you’re shooting for 65, your router will actually be the mediator, split the difference, and set it to 68.
In addition to Nest Thermostat and Nest Protect control, both Almond routers include new WiFi Triggers. This means that the router can sense the presence of your smartphone on the network, which can set off specific actions. “For example, when an Almond user returns home and their phone connects to their WiFi network, Almond can change settings, unlock doors, or raise the temperature,” says the company’s announcement.
The Almond+ and Almond 2015 touchscreen routers can also enable scenes (or a series of actions) with one touch. That way, you can turn down the lights, set the security system, and lock the doors with one tap. Both routers also feature IFTTT (“If This Then That”) support and other options for smart home control.
These routers are also probably the only routers available that don’t actually require a web connection. Both Almond routers feature local control, which you can use to tap into connected home devices and home device data that’s not shared with the cloud whenever the Internet is down.
“The average consumer is often intimidated by routers, the technology and the setup process so we wanted to provide a product that would be beautifully designed and simple to use,” said Rammohan Malasani, CEO of Securifi. “With an intuitive, easy-to-use interface, Almond makes it simple for users to integrate all of their connected devices.”
Securifi is selling both Almond routers now. The Almond+ and Almond 2015 are priced at $299 and $149, respectively.
Best Contemporary Smart Home, Silver and Bronze Winners,… 
Best Traditional Smart Homes, Silver and Bronze, Less… 
Monoprice Launches Affordable Smart Home System
A Smart Home Lifestyle for All Generations
Automated Shading: The Best Home Improvement Money Can Buy
“These routers are also probably the only routers available that don’t actually require a web connection. Why would that matter with something like a router? Well, if there’s a power outage, you’ll get your answerâ€â€and your control. These routers can still control home devices and access home device data that’s not shared with the cloud during those down power times.”
Huh? I have *no* idea what this claim means. Next time try a little harder to explain how Almond routers (or any router, for that matter) can do anything during a power outage.
Sorry, I did make that really confusing, Ned… and I am going to fix the copy. The Almond supplies local control, so even if the web goes down (not the power), you will still be able to control devices while you’re in the house.
Thanks for your reply and for your correction, Rachel. Everything make sense now!