Belkin Ends Wemo Support: What It Means for Smart Home Users

Belkin has announced that it will discontinue support for a majority of its Wemo smart home devices, resulting in the shutdown of the Wemo app and related cloud services. This transition will significantly limit the functionality of various prominent smart plugs, switches, and sensors. This change is set to take place at the end of January, providing users a narrow window to either migrate their compatible devices or consider replacements.

Impact on Smart Home Users

Once support ceases, core features that rely on the cloud, such as remote access and automation schedules, will no longer be operational. Smart integrations with digital assistants like Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant will also be affected. Although the physical hardware will still operate, these devices will effectively lose their “smart” capabilities.

Additionally, Belkin will halt firmware updates for these products, meaning they will not receive crucial bug fixes or security enhancements. This emphasizes a broader concern in the smart home industry: Devices can become obsolete far before their physical components wear out.

Apple Home Compatibility

There is a noteworthy exception for some Wemo devices that are compatible with Apple Home and HomeKit. Users can maintain functionality if they migrate these devices before the end-of-support deadline. As CNET smart home editor Tyler Lacoma points out, “Belkin has a long-term partnership with Apple, so for compatible devices, that transition is usually pretty simple.” However, older Wemo products may not support Apple Home, limiting their future usability.

For devices compatible with Apple HomeKit, users must complete the setup process promptly. Some compatible products include:

• Wemo Smart Light Switch 3-Way (WLS0403, WLS0503)
• Wemo Wi-Fi Smart Light Switch with Dimmer (WDS060)
• Wemo Smart Light Switch (WLS040)
• Wemo HomeKit Bridge (F7C064)
• Wemo Dimmer Light Switch (F7C059)
• Wemo Mini Plugin Switch (F7C063)
• Wemo Outdoor Plug (WSP090)
• Wemo Mini Smart Plug (WSP080)
• Wemo Stage Smart Scene Controller (WSC010)
• Wemo Smart Plug with Thread (WSP100)
• Wemo Smart Video Doorbell (WDC010)

Refund Eligibility

Belkin has stated that customers with Wemo devices still under warranty at the time support ends may be entitled to a partial refund. Specific eligibility will be contingent on the device type and purchase date. Given that many Wemo products were released years ago, most users may not anticipate qualifying for a refund.

Next Steps for Wemo Owners

If you own Wemo devices, here are some recommended actions:

• Verify if your Wemo products support Apple Home and migrate them promptly.
• If not compatible, plan for replacements before the support deadline.
• Consider recycling unsupported devices once they lose smart functionality.
• Uninstall the Wemo app after services shut down to avoid confusion.

This is an appropriate time to explore alternatives; CNET offers guides on the best smart plugs to consider. For guidance on managing unsupported smart home devices, users can review Filmogaz.com’s recommendations.