Home Assistant Launches New Multi‑Tool

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Home Assistant Launches New Multi‑Tool

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Nabu Casa, the commercial arm of the Open Home Foundation, has released the Home Assistant Connect Aux‑2, a $69 multi‑function box that expands Home Assistant’s reach into non‑smart devices. The compact unit, about the size of a deck of cards, offers 2.4GHz Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, Ethernet, USB‑A, USB‑C, a digital/analog audio jack, a Grove port, and two RS‑232 serial ports. It bridges Bluetooth devices, supports Z‑Wave or Zigbee antennas via USB, and controls TVs, AV receivers, solar inverters, and more through serial connections. The Aux‑2 runs on ESPHome and integrates with Home Assistant’s open‑source platform, enabling users to monitor fridge temperature, stream music to older speakers, and automate alerts. Early testing shows the device is surprisingly easy to set up and highly useful for expanding smart home ecosystems.

Published 2026-11-11 23:50:37 UTC · Published by JQJO

Published by JQJO Editorial Desk · AI assisted

More context

Timeline

On October 8 2026 Home Assistant publishes beginner guide for local setup.
On October 18 2026 Home Assistant releases 2026 local smart home guide.
On October 18 2026 Nabu Casa launches Home Assistant Connect Aux‑2.
On October 18 2026 Aux‑2 integrates with ESPHome and Home Assistant platform.

Coverage notes

Center: Coverage from info.hands.net, yelp.com, mammashands.org frames this as a developing news story: Home Assistant Launches New Multi‑Tool. Reporting emphasizes verified facts, named sources, and near-term impact for readers. Left: Left-leaning desks covering the same development typically emphasize public impact, institutional accountability, and who is most affected. Right: Right-leaning desks covering the same development typically emphasize practical outcomes, market or security stakes, and institutional response.