Xiaomi eco-chain company Lumi technology has launched the Aqara E1 USB Stick hub for the Chinese market. The device comes with compatibility with Apple Homekit and Xiaomi’s Mi Home. The launch comes not too long after the device was listed on the Mi Home app.

The Aqara E1 USB Stick Hub is a portable device that does not require a power supply input for its operations, and a built-in plug is absent, unlike its predecessor and a few other similar hubs. This design will come in handy in areas where there is no constant power supply. It can be plugged into a power bank or any other USB port and it will not only function as a hub but can also serve as a Wi-Fi extender to help far-off devices connect seamlessly to an internet router.

However, it is not clear whether the possible devices that can connect via the hub would be outside the Mi Home architecture. A more comprehensive connectivity profile would mean that the device is more versatile. The E1 also features Zigbee 3.0 for enhanced overall performance and power efficiency. The Aqara app also provides connectivity support for the device.

Some functionality is absent in the E1, like the alarm, speaker, buzzer, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Bluetooth drawback is not much of a severe flaw as some of the devices on the Mi Home ecosystem take care of such. The USB Stick hub is compatible with Aqara and MIJIA sensors, buttons, outlets, and switches.

The Aqara E1 is now on sale in China at an affordable price of 119 yuan (~$18). There is no word yet as to when it will be launched for the global market.

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