Meross’ radar presence sensor ditches the cord and adds Matter-over-Thread support
Meross has unveiled the MS605, an innovative battery-powered presence sensor that enhances flexibility in installation compared to its predecessor, the MS600. The new model operates on a single CR123A battery, boasting an impressive lifespan of up to three years, although battery life may diminish in high-traffic areas where frequent activation occurs. Currently available for preorder at a promotional price of $34.99, the MS605 is designed to cater to users looking for smart home solutions that do not require cumbersome power cords, making it ideal for various locations throughout the home or office.
One of the standout features of the MS605 is its compatibility with the Matter protocol, now leveraging the low-power Thread technology. This upgrade allows the sensor to connect seamlessly with popular smart home ecosystems such as Google Home, Apple Home, and Alexa, provided users have a Thread-capable hub. This shift from Wi-Fi connectivity to Thread not only enhances energy efficiency but also opens up new possibilities for smart home integration. The sensor retains the articulated mounting plate design of the MS600, allowing for a versatile range of motion—up to 90 degrees of tilt and a full 360 degrees of rotation—ensuring optimal placement for effective monitoring. With an IP67 waterproof rating, the MS605 can now be confidently used outdoors, expanding its functionality beyond indoor spaces.
Despite its many enhancements, the MS605 does come with a slight trade-off in range, as its detection capabilities have been reduced to 6 meters for motion detection and 4 meters for presence detection, down from the previous model’s 12 and 6 meters, respectively. Nevertheless, it continues to utilize a sophisticated combination of light, passive infrared (PIR), and 24GHz mmWave radar sensors, which enable it to accurately detect human presence while distinguishing between animate and inanimate objects. This advanced technology ensures that users can rely on the MS605 for effective monitoring, whether indoors or out, making it a valuable addition to any smart home setup.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9LtiCTxtpM
The MS605 has an articulated installation plate allowing the angle of the sensor to be adjusted. | Image: Meross
Meross has announced a new version of its MS600 presence sensor that’s now battery-powered, so installation isn’t limited to places where you can camouflage a power cord.
A single CR123A battery powers the new MS605 presence sensor for up to three years. Battery life may be reduced in high-traffic areas if the sensor is activated more frequently. It’s
available for preorder now
through Meross’ online store and discounted to $34.99 for a limited time.
The switch to battery power is made possible by another new feature: support for Matter over the low-power Thread protocol. The MS605’s
year-old predecessor
was also Matter-compatible, but over Wi-Fi. You’ll need to make sure you have a Thread-capable hub somewhere in your home to use the MS605 with Google Home, Apple Home, or Alexa, but it doesn’t have to be a Meross hub.
The MS605 has a similar design to the older MS600 and carries forward its articulated mounting plate, allowing the sensor to be angled up to 90 degrees and rotated 360 degrees. It’s been upgraded with an IP67 waterproof rating so it can now be used outdoors. It also offers the same combination of light, passive infrared (PIR), and 24GHz mmWave radar sensors used to detect people in motion or standing still, and to differentiate inanimate moving objects, like a window curtain, from humans. The only real downside to the battery is that the MS605’s range has been reduced to 6 meters (from 12) for motion and 4 meters (from 6) for presence detection.
