article_snippet: Switchmate fits over existing light switches meaning it can be used in most homes without needing rewiring .
article_snippet: The developers say the device, called Switchmate, means households can benefit from smart lighting without the need for expensive rewiring.
article_snippet: Switchmate can be controlled using a mobile phone app over Bluetooth and uses a physical toggle inside the device to move the light switch.
article_snippet: According to Daniel Peng, co-founder of California-based Switchmate, the device works like a robotic finger for the lights in your home.
article_snippet: Daniel Peng said: 'Switchmate allows you to remotely control your lights via your smart phone, but you can still press the button on the Switchmate face plate to manually flip the switch. '
article_snippet: Switchmate attaches to the outside of the light switch using magnets and has a button on its face allowing lights to be turned on and off as usual.
article_snippet: The battery powered Switchmate uses a physical toggle inside the device to flip traditional wall mounted light switches (shown above) - working like a robotic finger than can be controlled using a mobile phone app .
article_snippet: Switchmate is apparently compatible with two types of light switch - traditional flat 'rocker' switches and toggle switches.
article_snippet: Switchmate can be used with two different switch types - toggle switches (left) and rocker switches (right)
article_snippet: Mr Peng said: 'they designed Switchmate to make your lights smart in seconds - Switchmate snaps onto your existing light switch with magnets, connects to your phone, and allows you to automate your lights just like that. '
article_snippet: Switchmate allows you to remotely control your lights via your smart phone, but you can still press the button on the Switchmate face plate to manually flip the switch.'
highlights_snippet: Switchmate is fixed onto existing light switches using a magnetic fastener .
  