After initially reporting on the Meross presence sensor back in April, the company has now opened preorders for their new 3-in-1 device, the MS600, available through their online store.

The "3-in-1" label refers to the three sensors integrated in the MS600: a presence sensor similar to Aqara’s Presence Sensor FP1, a light sensor like in the Aqara Presence Sensor FP2, and a standard PIR motion sensor. It’s powered by USB-C, eliminating the need for batteries.

The presence sensor utilizes millimeter wave technology, often referred to as mmWave, which works similarly to radar by detecting objects within its field whether they are moving or not, unlike a standard PIR sensor. The inclusion of a light sensor puts it in direct competition with the more advanced Aqara FP2, which can divide its detection area into 30 zones, each recognized separately in Apple Home. The light sensor allows for specific automation conditions, such as:

• If presence is detected in the living room…
• but only when brightness in the room is below 50lm
• Turn on the living room lights

It's still unclear if all three sensors will be fully integrated with Apple Home via Matter.

   

       

           
       

   

   

       

           
       

   

Additionally, the MS600 can detect whether a person is approaching or moving away, similar to both Aqara devices, albeit only within the Aqara ecosystem. Meross claims that the device includes ‘pet-proof triggering’, meaning it will detect human presence but ignore pets. This is managed with the help of an included ‘Pet-proof Shield’ that blocks the sensor’s detection range below a certain height. However, this might also affect small children.

One key difference between the MS600 and the Aqara FP2 is that while both use WiFi, only the MS600 is a Matter-over-WiFi device. This means it can be added to Matter platforms directly, offering local connectivity, which mainly benefits Google and Alexa users, although Apple Home has always operated locally.

Preorders are now open, with expected shipping to begin on August 20th, 2024.