Speakers, thermostats, security cameras, lightbulbs: these are just a few of the everyday items that can now connect to the internet. We control these smart home gadgets using smartphone apps. This is all well and good, but with each device requiring its own app, running your smart home can feel a bit like programming a space launch.
Introducing IFTTT…
What is IFTTT?
IFTTT is short for If This, Then That, and when said aloud, rhymes with ‘gift’. It’s a way of linking all your gadgets, apps and services through one single app to make running your smart home simple.
It’s designed to make sure that:
All of the services we use work seamlessly together
You have complete freedom to mix and match different brands
If you own an Amazon Echo, Google Nest Thermostat or other smart home tech, IFTTT will help you pull it all together. You can adjust your smart heating by asking Alexa, for example.
How does IFTTT work?
Everything is set up and controlled by the IFTTT app that you download for your iPad, iPhone or Android device. It takes 2 separate apps or devices (grouped as ‘services’ by IFTTT) and creates a ‘connection’ between them.
‘If This, Then That’ neatly sums up how it works: If this happens with one service, then that happens with another. Simple!
These connections between services are called applets, and there are thousands to choose from. Applets help services “integrate quickly and easily, in a way that we can all trust,” says IFTTT co-founder Linden Tibbets. You simply find the applet you want in the app and hit ‘turn on’. Here are some cool applets to get started with.
Can IFTTT trigger an Alexa routine?
Alexa is the voice-controlled virtual assistant at the heart of all Amazon Echo smart speakers and devices. Using Alexa, you can make shopping lists, play music, ask questions and control smart home tech. All you have to do is ask.
Alexa and Google Nest Thermostat
Google Nest is a learning thermostat. When you adjust the heating during the first week of it being installed it remembers and programs itself.
Working together with IFTTT
- If you say “set Nest to 18ºC to Amazon Echo then the temperature will be set for your Nest thermostat
Alexa and Arlo Security System
Arlo’s fully wireless CCTV systems records footage when the cameras detect movement, which can then be viewed from your smartphone or tablet.
Working together with IFTTT
- If you give the voice command to Alexa then live video footage can be viewed instantly - giving you added peace of mind you home is safe
Can IFTTT trigger Google Assistant?
Like Alexa, Google Assistant is a virtual assistant that you control with your voice. It can be used to control loads of smart devices including speakers, TVs, lightbulbs and more.
Google Assistant and Sonos
Sonos is a wireless sound system that can fill your home with great sounding music. Connect multiple speakers over Wi-Fi, and enjoy your favourite playlists in every room.
Working together with IFTTT
- If you say “Ok Google, play my workout playlist” then Sonos will start playing your favourite tunes
Google Assistant and Hue
Philips Hue lightbulbs connect to your Wi-Fi so you can control them from an app on your phone. Connect up to 50 bulbs and switch off from your office if you’ve left them on.
Working together with IFTTT
- If you say “Ok Google, activate dim lights” then your Hue lightbulbs will dim to an ambient level
What else can I do with IFTTT?
There’s heaps more cool stuff you can do with devices like Nest, Hue, Ring, Amazon Echo and IFTTT. Here are some great connections you can set up:
Ring and Hue: If Ring doorbell detects motion then Hue lights turn on – great for deterring burglars
Alexa and Hue: If you say ‘party time’ to Alexa then your Hue lights colours loop will come on
Nest and Hue: If Nest thermostat is set to away then your Philips Hue lights will turn off
Alexa and Evernote: If you make to-do lists with Amazon Echo then they’ll automatically be added to Evernote
Nest Protect and Hue: If your Nest Protect detects carbon monoxide then your Hue lights will switch to red
Explore IFTTT for Amazon Echo, Nest Learning Thermostat, Ring doorbells and Philips Hue
Ready to take control? Build your smart home with us.
Want to learn more?
New to smart tech? You’ll want to check out our simple guide to setting up a smart home
Find out how to make your new home a smart home here
Discover how smart tech can keep your home safe and warm this winter here
Wondering whether smart tech is right for you? Find out all you need to know here
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