$119 – $159
Retrofit solar-powered blind motor with HomeKit via SOMA Connect hub
Cant run wiring to windows
Battery powered, no wiring needed
Use Apple HomeKit
HomeKit certified via SOMA Connect
Want solar-powered operation
30-day battery with solar charging
Have existing beaded chain blinds
Retrofits without replacing blinds
Need Matter support
No Matter certification
Dont want to buy hub
SOMA Connect ($49) required for smart home
Have heavy blinds (over 5kg)
Max supported weight is 5kg
Need very fast operation
Still slower than hardwired motors
Motor noise noticeable during operation, especially annoying for morning schedules
Android Police reviewPosition accuracy issues - slippage adjustment doesnt work accurately
The Ambient reviewApp grouping issues - no easy way to control devices independently when grouped
User reviewsMotor noise
commonCause: Motor design
Hub required for smart home
commonCause: Bluetooth-only design
Not buying SOMA Connect hub
Only Bluetooth control via phone, no HomeKit/Alexa/Google
Tip: Budget for Connect hub ($49) with motor
Installing on blinds over 5kg
Motor struggles or fails to move blinds
Tip: Weigh blinds before purchasing
Remote access when away, voice assistants, IFTTT
Bluetooth direct control, HomeKit local (via Connect), scheduling stored locally
Retrofit beaded chain motor. 5kg max. 2x2m max. Solar battery 30 days. 4x faster than v1. Quiet Morning mode. Light Sense AI. HomeKit via Connect.
No Matter. Connect hub required ($49). Motor noise. Position accuracy issues. Slower than wired motors. Support issues. Bluetooth only standalone.
IKEA FYRTUR/KADRILJ
If: Want complete smart blind system
SOMA Shades 3
If: Need more power and speed
SwitchBot Blind Tilt
If: Have horizontal blinds (not roller)
Have existing beaded chain blinds you like
Best retrofit option without replacing blinds
Use HomeKit and want solar power
Good HomeKit integration via Connect
Need fast, silent operation
Still noisy and slower than wired motors
Shades 3 is newer with 3x faster motor, more power, and quieter operation. Get Shades 3 if available and budget allows. Shades 2 is still good for lighter blinds.
Source: SmartHomeSceneWorks with beaded chain and continuous cord roller blinds/shades. Maximum weight 5kg (11 lbs), maximum size 2m wide x 2m high. Does not work with horizontal venetian blinds.
Source: SOMA specsCustomer support sometimes stops responding after extended troubleshooting
TrustpilotPosition accuracy
occasionalCause: Chain slippage
Support responsiveness
occasionalCause: Small company resources
Expecting silent operation
Motor noise audible, especially in quiet rooms
Tip: Use Quiet Morning mode for bedrooms
Shade position, usage patterns
HomeKit provides local control. SOMA Connect enables cloud features. Can work offline via Bluetooth. Less privacy concern than cloud-only devices.
Budget-conscious
Motor ($149) + Hub ($49) adds up vs IKEA system
Solar-powered rechargeable lithium battery. Lasts about 30 days on full charge. Solar panel charges from window light. Can also charge via USB. No wiring needed.
Source: SOMA specsYes, there is a native Home Assistant integration. You need the SOMA Connect hub for the HA integration to work. The integration supports position control and status monitoring.
Source: Home AssistantYes, but requires the SOMA Connect hub ($49). Without the hub, you can only control via Bluetooth with the phone app. The Connect hub enables HomeKit, Alexa, Google, and Home Assistant.
Source: SOMA website