The exciting HomeKit wall switch Aqara Smart Scene Panel S1 was unfortunately only available for a short time. The reason for this could be a new model. The Aqara MagicPad S1 has now appeared on the manufacturer's website, an improved version of the wall switch with display.

A touch-sensitive screen as a wall switch can be quite useful. Because instead of just turning devices on and off or activating scenes, you can use it to adjust the color, set the brightness, read the temperature and more directly on the switch.

Unfortunately the Aqara Smart Scene Panel S1 never really made it to US. It was only possible to order the switch via AliExpress for a short time. Apparently Aqara has been working on an improved model in the background, which has now appeared on the Chinese website.

Aqara MagicPad S1 comes with Zigbee 3.0, Ethernet and WiFi

Instead of relying exclusively on Zigbee as before, the new model also has Ethernet, Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) and Bluetooth integrated in addition to the new Zigbee 3.0 standard. This would allow operation without a hub, at least in theory. However, the question then arises as to which devices the wall switch should control.

Finally, the Aqara Smart Scene Panel S1 wall switch can control mainly Aqara devices so far. HomeKit integration is limited to the connected lamp. An opening for third-party devices would be desirable and soon with Matter also imaginable.

At any rate, many questions remain unanswered at this point. Nevertheless, it is exciting to see that Aqara continues to pursue the idea of a touch-sensitive screen as a wall switch. As soon as there are more findings about the new Aqara MagicPad S1, we will of course inform you.