Seattle-based smart lighting specialist Deako is working with Josh.ai to make connected lighting easier to access and automate across living spaces.

The partnership allows builders and integrators to pair Deako’s flexible lighting infrastructure with Josh.ai’s control products to deliver rapid and reliable automation without the complexity or cost of legacy high-end systems. Homes can now be built AI-ready using standard wiring and Deako backplates, with automation added seamlessly when desired.

“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.”

Alex Capecelatro, CEO of Josh.ai, added: “Our focus has always been on delivering a seamless and refined smart home experience. 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.”

With the integration, Deako smart switches and dimmers connect to the local network, where the Josh.ai processor automatically discovers lighting loads and creates the home’s floorplan for further customisation. With Josh.ai, homeowners can control lights however is easiest using touch, text, or natural voice commands. The Josh App, Josh Edge remote and all Josh.ai interfaces provide two-way feedback ensuring the system always reflects the current state of each Deako switch.

Unlike cloud-dependent voice assistants, Josh.ai and Deako communicate locally within the home, delivering instant response times, continued operation during internet outages and a privacy-first experience.

Builders can differentiate homes by offering a unifying smart home experience that provides AI-ready capabilities without committing to complex or proprietary systems. Custom integrators gain access to a broader mid-market audience, enabling premium smart lighting control and automation upgrades without electrical rewiring. Homeowners enjoy a seamless smart home control experience that combines affordability, flexibility and reliability.

By pairing modular hardware with AI software, Deako and Josh.ai say they are redefining what’s possible in smart home automation. The partnership shows that a premium experience no longer requires complicated infrastructure or costly equipment.

Founded in 2015, Josh.ai (www.josh.ai) is a Denver-based company creating platforms and products that enable natural interaction with technology in everyday life. Its focus is on AI, machine learning and intuitive design. Also founded in 2015, Deako (www.deako.com) is an innovator in modular smart lighting.