The Aqara Hub M2 is a central smart home gateway that connects your Aqara Zigbee devices to your home network. It supports Zigbee 3.0, has a built-in infrared blaster for controlling IR devices like TVs and air conditioners, and is compatible with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, and Google Home. Setting it up is the first step to building your Aqara smart home ecosystem.

What You Will Need

Aqara Hub M2
USB-C power cable and adapter (included)
Ethernet cable (optional, for wired connection)
A 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network (the Hub M2 does not support 5 GHz)
Aqara Home app installed on your smartphone (iOS or Android)

Connecting the Hub

Unbox the Hub M2 and connect the USB-C power cable to the port on the back of the hub.
Plug the other end into the included power adapter and connect it to a wall outlet.
If you prefer a wired network connection, plug an Ethernet cable into the Ethernet port on the back of the hub before powering it on. Otherwise, you will connect via Wi-Fi during the app setup.
Wait for the hub's LED ring to begin flashing orange, indicating it is ready for setup.

Setting Up in the Aqara Home App

Open the Aqara Home app and sign in to your account. If you do not have one, create a free account first.
Tap the + icon in the upper-right corner to add a new device.
Select Hub M2 from the hub category, or scan the QR code on the bottom of the hub.
Follow the on-screen prompts to connect the hub to your 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi network. Enter your network name and password when prompted.
Wait for the hub to connect. The LED ring will change from flashing orange to a steady color, indicating a successful connection.
Assign the hub to a room in your home, such as "Living Room" or "Central Hub."

Connecting to Voice Assistants

The Hub M2 supports integration with multiple smart home platforms:

Apple HomeKit — In the Aqara Home app, go to the hub settings and tap "HomeKit Setup." Scan the HomeKit code found on the bottom of the hub or in the included documentation. Your Aqara devices will then appear in the Apple Home app.
Amazon Alexa — Open the Alexa app, go to Skills and Games, search for "Aqara Home," enable the skill, and sign in with your Aqara account.
Google Home — Open the Google Home app, tap the + icon, select "Set up device," choose "Works with Google," search for Aqara Home, and link your account.

Optimal Placement

Where you place your Hub M2 affects both Zigbee and IR performance:

Place the hub in a central location in your home to maximize Zigbee range for connected sensors and switches.
If you plan to use the IR blaster feature, position the hub with a clear line of sight to the devices you want to control, such as TVs or air conditioners.
Avoid placing the hub inside cabinets or behind large furniture, which can block both Zigbee signals and IR transmissions.
Keep the hub away from other wireless devices and routers to minimize signal interference.

Using the IR Blaster

The built-in IR blaster allows you to control traditional infrared devices through the Aqara Home app:

In the app, go to the Hub M2 settings and select IR Remote.
Tap Add Remote and choose the type of device you want to control, such as an air conditioner or television.
Select your device brand and follow the on-screen test prompts to find the correct IR code set.
Once the correct codes are identified, save the remote. You can now control the device through the app or include it in automations.

Adding Your First Zigbee Device

With the Hub M2 set up, you can start adding Aqara Zigbee sensors and accessories. Go to the + menu in the app, select the device you want to add, choose your Hub M2 as the gateway, and follow the pairing instructions for that specific device. Most Aqara sensors pair by pressing and holding their reset button for 5 seconds.

Tips

Keep the hub firmware updated through the Aqara Home app to receive new features and security patches.
The Hub M2 supports up to 128 Zigbee child devices, which is more than enough for most homes.
If you experience connectivity issues with distant sensors, consider adding a wired Aqara device like a smart plug as a Zigbee signal repeater.

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