What sensors and rules stopped the false triggers Desk presence detection that actually works?

[MonadoBlade]

I’m trying to get desk presence detection working in a way that feels invisible, not like a science project that keeps embarrassing me on calls. Right now my automations keep thinking I left when I just leaned back, so the lights dim and my “focus mode” shuts off mid meeting. The funniest part is it works perfectly when I’m not in the room, then the moment I actually need it, it gets weird.

For anyone who’s happy with their setup, what did you use and what logic made the difference. Like mmWave, PIR, a chair pad, Bluetooth, or even keyboard and mouse activity. I’m looking for something that feels reliable without me babysitting it.

 

[Power_Grafh]

I gave up on perfect presence and used a simple rule. Lights stay on during my work block time, and only turn off if I leave the room and it stays quiet for a bit. It is less clever, but it never shuts off on me when I lean back.

 

[Alan]

For desk presence detection, the setups that feel “invisible” usually layer sensors. mmWave for micro motion, plus a simple “still here” input like keyboard or mouse activity, then add a short delay so one lean back does not drop you. What platform are you on, Home Assistant, Alexa routines, or something else?