New integrations with Amazon Alexa and IFTTT will offer unique functionality into the daily routines of families
Circle Media Labs Inc., a leading developer of products used by families to manage connected devices, debuted two additional Connections to its smart family platform to better integrate into the natural routines of families.
Assistant with Alexa
Through Connections, Circle with Disney products will connect with Amazon’s Alexa to give parents the ability to ask questions about their kid’s screen time usage by voice alone. Kids will even be able to get in on the action by asking about their time limits and bedtimes. Families can also get real-time monitoring of usage by asking a command such as, “Get the total usage” or ask by category like online shopping or YouTube.
Automation with IFTTT
Connecting with IFTTT enables Circle with Disney to be connected to hundreds of smart home apps and devices unlocking a world of possibilities. For example, users can make lightbulbs change color when your kid’s bedtime begins, pause the internet™ if the weather is suitable for outdoor play, and even reward them for reciting the first ten digits of Pi.
“These 2 latest integrations represent a major leap forward for the smart family,” said Lance Charlish, chief executive officer, Circle Media, Inc. “By integrating more naturally into ways in which families are already using technology, these Connections offer easy ways to not only keep screen time in check but ensure the family is practicing healthy habits.”
These latest Connections join the FamilyTech’s apps, “MotherShp,” “ChoreMonster,” and “Landra,” to give kids the opportunity to earn screen time by doing the chores they’re already completing. By completing tasks, they’re able to be rewarded with extended time limits on their devices and even late bedtimes, effectively making screen time a form of currency. FamilyTech’s integration into Circle Connections can be found at www.familytech.com/circle.
About Circle with Disney
Circle with Disney offers products to help parents stay informed about their kids’ online activities and limit screen time on connected device in the home and on-the-go, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and gaming consoles. Its flagship product is Circle Home, an elegant hardware device that pairs with in-home Wi-Fi, and is managed through a free companion iOS or Android app. Circle gives parents the ability to filter content, set time limits, set a bedtime, and pause the Internet™. Each user’s profile and settings can be completely customized based on age and parents’ preferences. Additionally, parents can add Circle Go to manage their family’s mobile devices on any network.
Pricing and Availability
Connections are included with an account with Circle with Disney. Circle Home – is available for $99 at all major retailers in the US, including Amazon, Best Buy, Target, and Walmart. The free Circle companion app can be downloaded for iOS or Android from the Apple App Store or Google Play. Monthly subscription for Circle Go is $4.99 for up to 10 mobile devices.
About Amazon Alexa
Amazon is guided by four principles: customer obsession rather than competitor focus, passion for invention, commitment to operational excellence, and long-term thinking. Customer reviews, 1-Click shopping, personalized recommendations, Prime Fulfillment by Amazon, AWS, Kindle Direct Publishing, Kindle, Fire tablets, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Echo, and Alexa are some of the products and services pioneered by Amazon. For more information, visit www.amazon.com/about and follow @AmazonNews.
About IFTTT
IFTTT empowers people to do more with the services they love. We work with over 530 apps, services, and devices including Facebook, Twitter, Philips Hue, Dropbox, Google, Nest, Fitbit, BMW, and Slack, with Applets. Applets bring these services together to create new experiences of all types, from automating simple tasks to transforming how someone interacts with and controls their home. We believe creative control of the services we use should be intuitive and accessible to everyone. Founded in 2010, IFTTT has raised $39 million in funding from top tier investors including Norwest Venture Partners, Andreessen Horowitz, NEA, Lerer Hippeau Ventures, and SV Angel.
About Circle Media Labs Inc.
Founded in 2014 and with offices in Portland, OR. and Cypress, CA, Circle Media Labs Inc. exists to develop family-centric products that redefine how families connect. www.meetcircle.com.
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