[ekux44]

The internet-of-things is rapidly getting there.

<shameless self plug> For example, my Android app, LampShade.io, has user-defined lighting 'moods' that work with the Philips Hue.

Currently these are primarily triggered via direct user interaction or through automation apps such as Tasker. I've also built a voice-controlled edition for Google Glass.

The app is still not as brainlessly convenient as a physical switch though. I don't think it can become that convenient without contextual inferring the state of the room/user, which may require more prevalent internet-of-things sensors to accomplish.

</shameless-self-plug>

[mikestew]

A thumbs-up for LampShade. It's far better than the horrible stock application for Hue lamps (and the recent update made for an even worse UX on iOS). I haven't even dug into the potential of Tasker integration and the like.

But you're right, as good as LampShade may be I still have to whip out the phone, fire up LampShade, swipe to the light or scene that I want, tap a button. Thing is, I don't know how to make it better, I don't think I'm wired to come up with the clever solution. I've considered NFC tags on the wall, but I don't think I'm getting that past the wife. (Plus she's an iOS girl, so NFC won't do her any good.)

[ekux44]

Many LampShade.io power users take the NFC route. CNET TV's 'The Fix' even used LampShade.io with NFC in an episode. The issue with NFC is it only works when one's Android is unlocked...

I believe good lockscreen widgets will be more convenient that NFC, and my next big update will focus on this.

Automation, scheduled lighting, predictive lighting(not yet implemented, think Nest), etc are all very powerful, but I doubt they will ever be comprehensive enough for all daily home lighting interaction.