The Flic is a wireless smart button that takes the concept of the Amazon Echo Dot and pumps it full of innovative steroids.
Since the dawn of time, we as humans have been finding ways to streamline processes and make our lives progressively easier. And since the dawn of computing, we’ve written scripts, programmed applications and built robots – however up until now these automotive experiences have been off-limits to the technologically incapable.
It’s time for the nerds to take a step aside and make room for the rest of us. Weighing in at a lean 6.5 grams and with a diameter of only 2.7cm, the Flic packs a whole lot of punch for its size. The sophisticated design and extensive range of colours means there’s a place for the Flic to either sit or stick anywhere in the home/office.
The Flic has three basic functions; Click, Double Click and Hold. Each of these functions can be assigned to automate any task either on your smartphone or around your smart home. The app has a very simple interface and makes designing tasks/sequences of tasks elegant and easy.
Their website boasts “Complete automation in a single click”, and it’s no exaggeration. Watch me book an Uber with a single click
For the enlightened among us that have smart-home devices such as Philips Hue Smart Bulbs, D-Link Smart Plugs and Google Chromecasts, the Flic allows for control of these devices at an elementary level. While I’m entirely incapable of wiring a switch to my light bulbs, I sure am competent enough to stick a Flic on my wall and assign the ‘Philips Hue’ task. In exactly 26 seconds I installed a fully functional light switch.
Among the already listed I’ve used the Flic to;
- Play and pause my Netflix
- Play and pause Spotify songs
- Randomize the light colours to host a rave
- Set a sound to locate my phone
- Read aloud my most recently received text
Now that i’ve given it the wrap it deserves, I’ve also experienced a few issues with the Flic as well. It uses a Bluetooth connection to your phone to operate which by nature has both a limited range and connectivity issues. Some days I’ll find myself needing to reset the Bluetooth on my phone and reconnect the Flic, which defeats the purpose of the device.
The other issue is that of price. At just under $45 AUD (without shipping), it’s pretty costly for a very non-essential device.
The concept, the design and execution of the Flic are exceptional. But at this early stage in the game of home automation and macro buttons/switches/applications, I don’t think the average punter can justify ~$45 + shipping.
