CSRmesh home automation can be controlled not only with smartphones and tablets, which have been provided as existing development examples, but also with PCs and wearable devices such as smartwatches, and can simply network Bluetooth Smart devices equipped with sensors and actuators.

The initial version of the CSRmesh protocol, first released last year, was optimized for lighting control. CSR continuously adds and expands the capabilities of CSRmesh to support customers in controlling various sensors or actuators they wish to add to the Mesh network for home automation, IoT (Internet of Things), etc.

"Our Mesh protocol has already added exciting capabilities to the Internet of Things, and our customers are launching smart lighting solutions that are easy to set up and use," said Anthony Murray, Senior Vice President of the Business Group at CSR. "The new version we have released provides an effective, reliable, and scalable home automation solution for smart home developers," he added.

CSRmesh can be commercialized using proven Bluetooth Smart chipset solutions, including CSR’s CSR101x™ products, and comes with accompanying software. It uses Bluetooth Smart to send and deliver messages to other devices within a network via packet relay. Due to the intuitive nature of the transmission protocol, general users do not require complex setup or pairing, except for the initial product registration process, and do not need separate devices such as routers or bridges. CSRmesh technology enables control via smartphones, tablets, PCs, or wearable devices, and can also be used as a controller in forms that are more accessible to consumers, such as general-purpose control devices like switches or control panels.

According to a recent market survey by CSR, customer interest in 'smart home' solutions is increasing. For example, 72% of respondents wanted lighting fixtures that automatically turn on and off in response to entering a room. This functionality, for instance, can be implemented by monitoring object movement via infrared (IR) sensors in light switches that support CSRmesh. CSR has recently introduced solutions for remote monitoring and control via cloud networks, in addition to direct control methods using Mesh protocols. For example, it becomes possible to monitor and control whether doors or windows are open, whether home appliances are turned on, or whether fire alarms are off, even while on a business trip or traveling far away. Through development support from the chip to the cloud, the CSRmesh home automation solution enables remote control of various devices within the home, regardless of time or location.

CSR is also conducting related standardization work within the Bluetooth Smart Mesh Study Group of the Bluetooth Special Interest Group (SIG) to standardize the Bluetooth Smart Mesh Protocol as soon as possible. Anthony Murray stated, “CSR is committed to supporting the development of the Internet of Things. Furthermore, we are playing a pivotal role in standardization within the Bluetooth SIG to enhance interoperability among all compatible devices and prevent issues that hinder market growth.”

A software version of CSRmesh capable of supporting home automation is scheduled to be released in the second quarter of 2015. Developers already have access to the CSRmesh development kit, including the Android and iOS source code for CSRmesh, and can also use the current development kit to develop future home automation features.