Introduction
This guide describes the user-facing features visible in the current alpha version of the app. Screens and labels may still change, and some advanced controls depend on your account role, installed device packages, licenses, and system configuration.
What is ES4A?
ES4A is a smart-home and IoT platform for organizing homes, controlling devices, reviewing activity, and building automations. The app combines a cloud workspace with optional local HomeServer connectivity. Approved developer accounts can also access the ES4A Developer Kit.
Start here
If you are new to ES4A, read these pages in order:
- Getting started — sign in, select a home, and understand the interface.
- Dashboard and navigation — use the main workspace and its windows.
- Homes, devices, and rooms — organize and control your installation.
- Automations and history — use routines, programs, variables, and event history.
Feature guide
| Area | What it is for | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Dashboard | A customizable overview of the selected home | Available |
| Homes | Switch homes, review setup state, members, and permissions | Available; actions depend on permissions |
| Rooms | Group devices by floor and room and open device controls | Available |
| Manage Devices | Search devices, inspect status and connection information, and open settings | Available; some service actions are restricted |
| Routines | Create simple reusable actions for a room or home | Alpha |
| Programs | Build more advanced logic with a visual block editor | Alpha |
| Variables | Store number, Boolean, text, or color values for automations | Alpha |
| History | Review recent device and automation events | Available when history data is recorded |
| Universe | Manage integrations, apps, virtual devices, protocols, and the device tree | Advanced; configuration-dependent |
| HomeServer setup | Connect and configure an ES4A HomeServer | Alpha; hardware and network dependent |
| Account settings | Manage profile, preferences, accessibility, security, and licenses | Partially available |
Availability language
Throughout this guide:
- Available means the feature has an active user interface in the current app.
- Role-dependent means the feature only appears for an owner, employee, or approved developer account.
- Configuration-dependent means the feature requires compatible hardware, a package, an integration, or backend support.
- Alpha means the workflow exists but may be incomplete or change without notice.
- Placeholder means the page or button may be visible but does not yet provide a complete action.