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Want voice control over your smart home’s sprinkler system? Just ask Alexa

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It’s already integrated with Nest, so, of course, Green IQ can now be controlled by way of Amazon Echo, too. In an effort to make your smart home even smarter, a new collaboration between a next-generation sprinkler system and the Internet of Things platform allows you to turn on your sprinklers with nothing more than your voice.

As Amazon Echo and its associated virtual assistant Alexa continue to expand their smart home environment, it only makes sense that it’s not only thinking of the interior of your household, but its exterior as well. If you just say, “Alexa, ask GreenIQ to turn on (insert zone here),” you’ll be well on your way to keeping your lawn looking as fresh as possible. And more importantly, you’ll be able to save the environment and some money by ensuring that you’re never overwatering or being wasteful with Earth’s most precious resource.

Thanks to GreenIQ’s Smart Garden Hub system, your sprinkler system will use Wi-Fi to automatically monitor the weather, and adjust its watering schedule as needed. And if dealing with an app is too much, voice control is also on the table thanks to the Alexa integration.

“We’re excited to offer homeowners this next level of convenience through Amazon Echo,” said Odi Dahan, founder and CEO of GreenIQ. “Our goal is to make gardening as seamless and efficient as possible,and with the Alexa voice assistant, users can control their outdoor space from the comfort of the couch or bed.”

You can buy the Smart Garden Hub for $199 from The Home Depot or directly from the GreenIQ website, and while you’re at it, grab the $180 Amazon Echo. After all, there are plenty of things that you already have to control around the house. So you might as well take something off your overflowing plate.

Buy the Smart Garden Hub Buy the Amazon Echo

Lulu Chang
Former Digital Trends Contributor
Fascinated by the effects of technology on human interaction, Lulu believes that if her parents can use your new app…
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