Share on Facebook
Isn't it annoying it is to be awakened at 3 a.m. by a chirping smoke alarm with a dying battery? The folks at Roost invented a smoke-alarm battery with an embedded Wi-Fi chip that sends an alert to your smartphone before it’s drained to that level. Even better, this same battery sends a message when your smoke alarm alerts you to fire.
Of course, it’ll cost you rather more than a standard battery, at $40. But because the WiFi functionality only kicks into action when the alarm is triggered, it promises a 5-year life – and when it does finally notify your iPhone that it needs to be replaced, you can retain the WiFi section and snap in a replacement battery for $10.
Naturally, a companion app lets you view the status of multiple Roost-powered alarms and easily get in touch with emergency contacts. Roost says the battery will also work in carbon monoxide and water leak alarms. Additionally, it's taking suggestions for other devices it should support.
You can pre-order now, with shipping estimated for June. We think it’s a great idea and will be giving it a try as soon as it’s available.