Thanks for the reply. I noticed the switch you linked was also programmable and could adjust for sunrise/sunset times but not necessarily "smart"-connected. It would be good to get some open-sourced option that will allow manipulation through some method that doesn't rely on closed-in proprietary apps or ecosystems, but I'm not sure how developed along and available those options are. Perhaps a good idea for a Kickstarter though!
If I go for the Levitron switches I'm already used to, it's just a matter of running to every switch and programming it... if I can keep it to a minimum (say 3 or 4 switches) it wouldn't be a big hassle. They are relatively cheaper, easy to use and less complex and don't rely on connectivity/apps/proprietary protocol. I believe Google, Amazon and Apple have home automation protocols that inter-operate and perhaps a switch that can fit into any of those ecosystems will be a safer bet as it seems they will be likely forward-compatible for a long time... even if I switch phones or ecosystems I would hopefully be able to still manage them from other platforms.
Ideally, I would want some open-source "smart" switch that would connect over WiFi and have the option for several methods to allow you to program it. For example, there may be programming libraries available in several languages (C, Python, etc) with examples, or pre-compiled utilities or scripts. Perhaps then you could even set up task scheduler or cron tasks to update the program. There may even be support for a phone app. At the most basic it could even have a simple HTTP server to allow you to program it by browsing the switch, much like some printers allow you to check settings/ink levels by browsing to their IP address, or ssh login, or perhaps the ability to upload a schedule file formatted in some way. The point is, it would be possible to do stuff in a way that you can continue to develop and modify and access it no matter what happens.
I have an old scrolling LED sign... it's probably 20 years old now or more. It has a serial port connection and you basically can just send codes to it and program the sign with your message. The protocol is available, it's easy. That's what we need with an open-source switch... some dirt simple human-readable code you can send to program it and set it up that will still be possible 20 years from now... if the switch lasts that long! I'm sure WiFi will still be available then.