IFA Berlin 2025: Apollo Automation's European Smart Home Mission
Apollo Automation recently returned from an incredible week at IFA Berlin 2025, one of Europe's largest consumer electronics and smart home technology exhibitions. Our Kentucky-based team made the journey across the Atlantic to showcase our latest Home Assistant-compatible sensors and ESPHome devices to the European smart home community.
Meeting the Home Assistant Community in Europe
One of the highlights of our IFA Berlin experience was connecting face-to-face with the Home Assistant community in Europe. As dedicated supporters of the open-source smart home platform, we were thrilled to meet users who have been integrating our AIR-1 air quality sensors, MSR-2 mmWave presence detectors, and PLT-1 plant sensors into their local, privacy-first smart home setups.
The European Home Assistant community's passion for local smart home control and ESPHome integration perfectly aligns with Apollo Automation's mission. We demonstrated how our sensors work seamlessly with Home Assistant without requiring cloud services or subscriptions - a message that resonated strongly with privacy-conscious European users.
Expanding Smart Home Awareness: Introducing Homey and Home Assistant
Beyond meeting existing users, we had the opportunity to introduce many IFA attendees to the world of Home Assistant and Homey smart home platforms. Many visitors were familiar with mainstream smart home ecosystems but hadn't discovered the flexibility and control offered by these open platforms.
Our booth demonstrations showed how Apollo sensors integrate with both platforms:
- Home Assistant users saw our MTR-1 multi-target radar and PLT-1 plant sensors working with ESPHome
- Homey platform enthusiasts experienced our WiFi-based sensors enhancing their existing setups
- Newcomers learned about local smart home control and the benefits of keeping their data private
Strengthening Partnerships: Homey Team Reunion
We were excited to reconnect with the Homey team at IFA Berlin 2025. Our ongoing partnership ensures Apollo sensors work seamlessly with the Homey platform, giving European users more smart home integration options. The Homey ecosystem's user-friendly approach combined with our precision sensors creates powerful automation possibilities.
Homey Office Visit in Enschede
A major highlight of our European trip was visiting the Homey office in Enschede, thanks to Mathijs and the entire Homey team. Seeing their operation firsthand and discussing future collaborations was invaluable for strengthening our European smart home partnerships. The visit reinforced our commitment to supporting multiple platforms and giving users choice in their smart home journey.
Coulisse Office Visit: Smart Home Innovation in Enter
We also had the pleasure of visiting the Coulisse office in Enter, where Jerry and the team showed us their innovative approach to smart window treatments and home automation. These connections demonstrate the growing ecosystem of European smart home innovation that complements Apollo's sensor technology.
Building European Smart Home Connections
Our IFA Berlin 2025 experience wasn't just about showcasing products—it was about building relationships that will make Apollo sensors more accessible to European smart home enthusiasts. We established new partnerships and distribution channels that should significantly improve availability and support for our products across the EU.
Key outcomes from IFA Berlin:
- Enhanced EU distribution partnerships for faster, more affordable shipping
- Local support networks for European Home Assistant and Homey users
- Community connections that will drive future product development
- Platform awareness expansion for Home Assistant and Homey
Apollo Products Featured at IFA Berlin 2025
European smart home enthusiasts got hands-on experience with our latest sensor lineup:
AIR-1 Air Quality Sensor
Our compact air quality monitor with PM 1, 2.5, 4, 10, VOC, NOx, temperature, and humidity sensing drew significant interest. European users appreciated the local-only operation and Home Assistant integration without cloud dependencies.
MSR-2 mmWave Presence Sensor
The ultra-compact presence detector with HLK-LD2410B radar demonstrated superior still-motion detection for European smart homes prioritizing reliable occupancy sensing.
PLT-1 Plant Sensor
Our versatile plant monitoring sensor with soil moisture detection and environmental sensing proved popular for European users interested in monitoring everything from indoor plants to greenhouse conditions.
R PRO-1 PoE mmWave Sensor
Our professional-grade PoE-powered presence sensor attracted attention from system integrators and advanced users planning comprehensive smart home installations.
Sorry We Missed Our Monthly Live Stream
To our community watching from home: we apologize for missing our regular Apollo Live Stream this month. Since arriving in Europe, we've been non-stop meeting with partners, demonstrating products, and building the connections that will benefit our entire community. We'll be back with exciting updates and announcements from our European adventure.
Looking Forward: Apollo Automation's European Expansion
Our IFA Berlin 2025 experience marks a significant milestone in Apollo Automation's growth. The connections made, partnerships formed, and community enthusiasm encountered will drive our continued expansion into European smart home markets.
What's Next for European Smart Home Users
- Improved EU shipping and support through new partnership channels
- Expanded platform integration building on Home Assistant and Homey relationships
- Community-driven development influenced by European user feedback
- Local documentation and resources in additional European languages
Connect with Apollo Automation
Missed us at IFA Berlin? Stay connected with Apollo Automation:
- Website: apolloautomation.com
- GitHub: github.com/ApolloAutomation - Open-source firmware and hardware designs
- Wiki: wiki.apolloautomation.com - Comprehensive integration guides
- YouTube: youtube.com/@ApolloAutomation - Product demos and monthly live streams
- Discord: dsc.gg/apolloautomation - Active community support
Home Assistant and ESPHome Integration
Most Apollo sensors are Works with Home Assistant certified and Made for ESPHome, designed for seamless Home Assistant integration. As official partners with both Home Assistant and Homey, European users can enjoy local control, privacy protection, and extensive automation possibilities without cloud dependencies.
Apollo Automation builds high-performance, compact smart home sensors in Kentucky, USA. Our commitment to open-source support, Home Assistant integration, and community-driven development makes advanced smart home technology accessible to users worldwide.
Tags: IFA Berlin 2025, Home Assistant Europe, Smart Home Sensors, ESPHome Devices, Apollo Automation, Homey Integration, mmWave Sensors, Air Quality Monitoring, European Smart Home, Open Source Smart Home
