Ikea has unveiled three new smart sensors for home monitoring and control, including for leak detection and unexpected home intrusions.

The Swedish DIY homeware retailer said the smart sensors deliver real-time notifications whenever activity is detected, allowing users to stay informed and connected to their home, whether they’re there or not.

The retailer’s BADRING Water Leakage Sensor is placed near areas of water usage and notifies users upon detecting water leaks via mobile notifications or activation of its built-in alarm.

VALLHORN Wireless Motion Sensor can be placed both indoors and outdoors and activates lights upon detecting movement and offers personalised lighting with adjustable colour and intensity settings.

PARASOLL Door and Window Sensor is designed to be mounted on windows and doors and notifies users when these access points are opened or closed, making them aware of any unexpected entries.

Ikea said it decided to create the sensors, which are based on automation technology developed by Zigbee Software, after research undertaken for its latest Life at Home Report found that people prioritise comfort and security in their homes.

“Everyone wants to feel safe at home and we feel excited about entering a new smart product area that creates not only a better, but safer life at home,” says Stjepan Begic, product design developer at Ikea Sweden. “We believe these products can provide our customers with peace of mind and a greater sense of control and comfort."

The sensors will be available for purchase from January 2024.

Ikea UK recently reported a sales rise of almost 12 per cent.

UK turnover totalled £2.46 billion over the retailer’s latest 12-month period and comes as the wider Ingka Group, which owns Ikea, announced global retail sales of €41.7 billion – up by 5.7 per cent compared to 2022.

---