Deako and Josh.ai Partner to Expand Premium Smart Lighting Access
TECHNOLOGY
This integration brings together modular smart lighting and privacy-first AI controls, making custom home automation more accessible.
Smart lighting is getting smarter, and easier to install. Deako, the Seattle-based company behind modular whole-home lighting systems, has partnered with Josh.ai, the AI-powered home control platform, to bring sophisticated automation to more homes without the complexity or cost that typically comes with high-end systems.
The integration allows builders and custom integrators to combine Deako's flexible lighting infrastructure with Josh.ai's modern control interface, creating homes that are "AI-ready" from day one. That means homeowners can start with basic functionality using standard wiring and Deako backplates, then add advanced automation later without rewiring or replacing equipment.
How the Integration Works
The partnership connects Deako Smart Switches and Dimmers to the local network, where the Josh.ai processor automatically detects lighting loads and builds the home's floorplan. Once connected, homeowners can control lights using touch, text, or natural voice commands through the Josh App, Josh Edge remote, or any Josh.ai interface. The system provides two-way feedback, so it always reflects the current state of each Deako switch.
Unlike cloud-dependent voice assistants, Josh.ai and Deako communicate locally within the home. That means faster response times, continued operation during internet outages, and a privacy-first experience. No data leaves the home unless the homeowner chooses to enable remote access.
"Deako was built around the idea that homes should be ready for what's next," said Derek Richardson, CEO of Deako. "Partnering with Josh.ai demonstrates the power of our modular platform to support sophisticated, high-end automation without locking builders or homeowners into rigid systems. This proves that future-proof infrastructure and premium experiences can go hand-in-hand."
Why This Matters for Builders, Integrators, and Homeowners
The partnership addresses three distinct groups:
For builders, the integration offers a way to differentiate new construction by including smart home capabilities that don't require proprietary systems or complicated installations. Homes can be marketed as "AI-ready" without committing to a specific automation platform upfront.
For custom integrators, the partnership opens access to a broader mid-market audience. Integrators can now offer premium smart lighting control and automation upgrades without the need for electrical rewiring, expanding their potential customer base beyond luxury projects.
For homeowners, the experience is straightforward. They get reliable smart lighting that can evolve as their needs change, all without expensive infrastructure overhauls. The system is affordable, flexible, and designed to last.
"Our focus has always been on delivering a seamless and refined smart home experience through Josh.ai," said Alex Capecelatro, CEO of Josh.ai. "Working with Deako strengthens that commitment by giving our dealers and builder partners even more flexibility in how they bring intelligent lighting into their projects. We're proud to integrate with their platform and expand the possibilities within the Josh.ai ecosystem."
A New Standard for Smart Lighting
By pairing modular hardware with advanced AI software, Deako and Josh.ai are redefining what's possible in smart home automation. The partnership proves that a premium experience no longer requires complicated infrastructure or costly equipment, it just requires smarter design.
To learn more about Deako's modular lighting systems, visit www.deako.com.