The Z-Wave Alliance, a key organisation in the development of smart home standards, has announced a significant expansion in the certification of Z-Wave Long Range (ZWLR) devices. With a current total of 125 ZWLR-certified products available, more manufacturers are now offering enhanced IoT connectivity solutions that are both more reliable and suitable for long range applications in residential, multifamily, and commercial environments globally.
Recent certifications highlight the capabilities of ZWLR technology to improve range, security, and performance, thereby pushing the boundaries of smart home and building automation systems.
ZWLR-certified devices bring several advanced features to the market. Notably, the technology supports extended communication capabilities, reaching approximately 1.5 miles in optimal conditions. This allows devices located far from the hub to stay connected without relying on signal repeaters. Additionally, ZWLR utilises a star network topology, enabling direct communication between devices and the hub, which minimises latency and simplifies network management.
The scalability of ZWLR is another key advantage, as it expands network space to support up to 4,000 nodes per hub. This feature makes it ideal for extensive smart home systems and large commercial setups. Furthermore, devices under this standard optimise battery usage by dynamically adjusting their power output based on distance requirements, potentially extending battery life up to a decade on small cells for certain sensor types.
Security is a primary focus of ZWLR, boasting the advanced Z-Wave S2 security framework that enhances communications through encryption, secure key exchange, and device authentication. Bettina Roll, Z-Wave Alliance Certification Program Manager, commented on the swift adoption of ZWLR this year, stating, “Manufacturers are not only embracing the performance benefits of ZWLR, but they’re also demonstrating how scalable, reliable connectivity can redefine smart home and building automation.”
With the current suite of 125 certified ZWLR devices covering over 30 categories in markets such as the U.S. and EMEA, the growth of this ecosystem reflects the robustness of open standards and ongoing innovation within the Z-Wave community.
Among the newly certified devices are the GC Touch Security Panel by 2GIG and the SmokeShield by Aeotec, both leveraging ZWLR for improved connectivity and functionality. Other notable products include the Alfred DB1 Pro Smart Door Lock with its extended communication capabilities and the next-generation Alloy Fusion smart hub and thermostat by Smart Rent, offering comprehensive home system control.
FireAvert’s Z-Wave Auto-Stove Shut-Off Device and Shelly’s Wave Series emphasise safety and energy management, respectively, while Jasco introduces precise solutions like the Slim Door and Window Sensor and the In-Wall Smart Dimmer. Additionally, Rently, ULTRALOQ, and Yale / ADT have released devices aimed at enhancing security and access control with ZWLR technology.
Zooz continues to expand its product lineup with devices such as the RGBW Dimmer and the Siren and Chime, both of which support streamlined automation and alert systems. The increasing sales of Z-Wave and ZWLR devices signal a growing consumer interest in maintaining privacy and local data management, reducing reliance on third-party cloud services.
