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> The devices require a wi-fi connected hub, not too strange for things that use Zigbee

Wait, why would Zigbee devices require Wi-Fi connection? That would be a red flag for me, I would have avoided products like this.

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They don't. You can use Aqara-branded zigbee devices just fine with Home Assistant (open source), no propietary cloud services required. With most manufacturer's own hubs it's a whole different story, basically they all talk to their cloud, that's how they are designed. I can see why, that's the easiest option for average consumer, plug & play.

https://www.home-assistant.io/integrations/xiaomi_aqara/

Usually so you can control the devices from your smartphone. Phone talks to hub over local wi-fi, hub talks to devices over Zigbee. They might have a web interface where you can program schedules for the lights, define "scenes" and such. So it's not entirely pointless.

There is however no reason why the hub should have internet access though.

I believe they are used to allow the users to control their devices outside the network.

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