GE smart shades go made-to-order: 5 things to know

Motorized blinds have a fit problem: if your window isn't a standard size, off-the-shelf smart shades either leave gaps or don't fit at all. GE Lighting is tackling that by turning its Matter-compatible smart shades into a made-to-order product, HomeKit News reports. Here's what's new.

Custom sizes instead of a few standard ones

Until now GE sold its smart shades in a handful of pre-set sizes. The new option lets you order them to your window: 28 to 72 inches wide (71–183 cm) and 35 to 110 inches tall (89–279 cm). That should cover many windows that the existing pre-sized shades couldn't.

More fabrics, two housing colours

Alongside the existing Blackout and Translucent fabrics, GE adds a 3% solar fabric, which cuts glare while keeping some view outside, plus a range of designer light-filtering and blackout fabrics. Each pairs with an aluminium housing in black or white.

A reverse-roll option for windows with handles

Normally the fabric drops close to the glass, which can catch on window handles. The new reverse-roll setup lets the fabric fall further from the pane. Both versions can be mounted inside or outside the window frame, and GE says installation is still a DIY job of under ten minutes.

Matter over Thread, so no single ecosystem

The shades use Matter over Thread, so they work with Apple Home, Google Home and Amazon Alexa and can join routines with lights and other devices, for example opening at sunrise. You'll need a Thread border router, such as a recent smart speaker or hub. If that's new to you, our Matter and Thread explainer covers the basics. Power comes from a rechargeable battery that GE rates at up to six months per charge, so no wiring is needed. Real battery life will depend on how often the shades move.

Price and where to buy

Made-to-order shades start at $299.99 and are sold only through GE's online store and its Amazon storefront. Other retailers keep selling the pre-sized versions. GE quoted US pricing only, with no word on Europe.

Our view: custom sizing is what keeps many people from buying smart blinds, so this is a sensible move, though $300 per window adds up quickly. If you're building out a smart home, pair shades with the right climate control from our smart thermostat guide, or see how SwitchBot's new Matter outdoor lights work without a hub.