arre Launches Revamped Matter-Over-Thread Contact Sensor

Formerly known as TUO, arre Home is continuing its transition to its new name with the launch of a revamped Matter-over-Thread security sensor for doors and windows. While previous device updates to the company's Temperature Sensor and Smart Button were mere re-brands, the new arre Contact Sensor features a slight makeover and a battery swap.

arre Contact Sensor: Design and Specs

Like its predecessor, the new arre Contact Sensor sports a two-piece design that uses a magnet to determine when a door or window is opened. According to arre, the updated sensor is 30% slimmer than the original with the main body of the unit now measuring just 40x31x13.0mm while the magnet comes in at 15.5x40x13mm.

The arre Contact Sensor also retains the same white plastic frame complete with a single button and LED indicator light on the front of the main unit. Unlike Aqara's P2 Door and Window Sensor which allows its on-device button to act as a smart home remote, the button on arre's Contact Sensor is only used during the initial pairing process.

arre's updated sensor also benefits from a switch to a smaller, more commonly available battery size—CR2032. Despite switching sizes, the arre Contact Sensor is still advertised as having one-year battery life, although the company states that users could see as many as two years depending on usage.

Internally, the sensor continues to rely on a combination of Bluetooth 5.0 and Thread radios for its Matter smart home connection. This enables seamless, hub-free connectivity with all of the major smart home ecosystems including Google Home, SmartThings, Alexa, and Apple Home.

arre Contact Sensor: Matter Features

Once paired with a preferred ecosystem, the arre Contact Sensor can fulfill several roles within the smart home. First, as a security device, arre's sensor can deliver timely notifications whenever an entry point to a home is opened—just like other Matter door and window sensors.

The arre Contact Sensor can also be used as a trigger for automation and routines with other Matter devices. For example, an arre sensor attached to an entrance can automatically toggle connected light switches or turn on smart light bulbs when arriving home.

By combining roles, arre's sensor is perfect for users who want to create a self-monitoring DIY security system when paired with a smart speaker. As always though, available features may vary depending on the ecosystem.

arre Contact Sensor: Pricing and Availability

The refreshed arre Contact Sensor is available now at a suggested retail price of $29.99 US each. If you are interested in picking up the new sensor, you can purchase it directly from arre at arrehome.com or through Amazon in North America with two-day Prime shipping available.

For more on the arre Contact Sensor and other Matter smart home devices, stay tuned to Matter Alpha.