Nanoleaf has launched an array of new products, some of which have been previously mentioned. Notably, their Matter Smart Holiday String Lights were announced last October. However, there are also several brand-new devices to consider, including the Nanoleaf Blocks.

At first glance, these products might resemble the earlier Nanoleaf Canvas. However, the ‘Blocks’ introduce some significant differences.

The most noticeable difference is the variety of five ‘Blocks’ available: a basic ‘Square’, a ‘Textured’ square, a ‘Light Pegboard’, a ‘Shelf’, and a ‘Small Square’ that is essentially 25% the size of the standard Square. Like the Canvas and other Nanoleaf lighting products, these blocks offer up to 16 million colors and can connect to each other, forming a vibrant patchwork.

Similar to Nanoleaf’s ‘Shapes’, the 'Blocks' allow for a mix-and-match approach, creating more organically shaped designs. The Shelf version can support items up to 1.5kg, such as models, phones, or mini speakers. The Pegboard option, with separate hooks, supports up to 3kg. The Textured Blocks add a three-dimensional aspect, enhancing your lighting arrangement.

Interestingly, the Blocks do not currently support Matter and might never do so. For Apple Home users, this might not be an issue, but Google, SmartThings, and Alexa users focused on Matter will have to revert to a cloud-based method for integration. This is unexpected, considering Nanoleaf was an early adopter of both Matter and Thread. For example, their 4D TV light strip combo and Nanoleaf Skylight only offer WiFi connections. However, they recently released Matter over WiFi Essential Bulbs and a Multicolour light strip. Though less seamless than Thread, it's good to have options. There might be a silver lining...

Nanoleaf’s launch of a wireless controller/button/switch came as a surprise, partly because past controllers announced by the company never materialized. In 2020, they revealed an unusual device as part of an unfulfilled ‘Learning Series’ featuring U-IQ technology. Nevertheless, Nanoleaf has introduced a new wireless remote—the Sense+ Smart Switch—with five buttons. Although similar in size to the Wemo Stage Scene Controller, it is primarily designed to work with Nanoleaf’s lighting products. The top and bottom buttons function as on and off switches, while the middle button serves as a dimmer. Additionally, two programmable buttons on either side can be configured in Apple Home for non-Nanoleaf products.

Another surprise is the switch's use of Matter over Thread, albeit in a ‘Matter Early Access’ phase, hinting at a beta status. It also features a new Nanoleaf protocol called ‘Litewave,’ enabling direct connectivity to Nanoleaf products, which may be beneficial in setups lacking Thread. Nonetheless, if the switch supports Matter over Thread, it's a valuable addition, especially at an affordable US$26.99 (plus shipping).