How-To Geek - Smart Home

The TV at Your Airbnb Could Be a Security Risk

Corbin Davenport — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 14:00:19 GMT

You probably have a lot on your mind during travel, especially when you're wrapping up your trip. It's important to not forget anything, you have to figure out transportation, and everything else. There is one part many people forget, though: log out of your streaming services on the TV. Or better yet, don't add them in the first place.

What Is a Thread Border Router? (And Do I Need to Buy One?)

Jason Fitzpatrick — Sat, 18 Nov 2023 16:30:21 GMT

You may have never heard of Thread border routers, but they're aiming to become a smart home staple—working behind the scenes to tie together all your smart home gear. Better yet? You might already own one.

Amazon Begins Replacing Its Android-based Fire OS with New Software

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 18:53:37 GMT

All of Amazon's hardware platforms, including the Fire Tablet, Fire TV, and Echo, run on the Android-based Fire OS. But this is set to change over the next few years. Amazon has debuted an all-new operating system, codenamed "Vega OS," on the latest Echo Show 5 smart display.

Brava Glass Review: See the Magic of Smart Cooking

Tyler Hayes — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 11:00:23 GMT

It might not seem like a huge deal that Brava Glass added a see-through door to an otherwise unchanged countertop oven, but it is, kind of. The high-tech oven has a camera inside to view the food on an integrated screen, but there’s something instinctual about wanting to glance over and see the cooking process happening. Now that's mostly a possibility with this smart appliance update.

Cync Dynamic Effects Smart Hexagon Panels Review: Brilliantly Fun Lighting

Mark LoProto — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 11:00:25 GMT

It seems more than ever that personalizing your space involves dynamic lighting displays. From light strips to color-changing bulbs, there’s no shortage of ways to brighten up a room. However, those options lack the visual uniqueness of sets like GE’s Cync Dynamics Effects Smart Hexagon Panels.

TP-Link Tapo Has a New Affordable Security Camera

Arol Wright — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 13:30:22 GMT

Cost is a common complaint with smart home products, especially with cameras and other security systems that have a subscription requirement for many features. There are still some affordable options for smart cameras, though, like the Tapo brand from TP-Link. Meet the Tapo C120: a smart camera that doesn't break the bank.

XPOWER A-2 Electric Air Duster Review: Clean With the Click of a Button

Marcus Mears III — Sun, 12 Nov 2023 11:00:23 GMT

I take a lot of pictures for reviews, and dust is the bane of my existence. I look at what would be the perfect shot, but the product is surrounded by loose hairs, specs of dust, and packaging debris. You could use a can of compressed air, or you could use the XPOWER A-2 Electric Air Duster.

Dreame L20 Ultra Review: The Only Robot Vacuum You'll Ever Need

Bryan M. Wolfe — Sat, 11 Nov 2023 11:00:22 GMT

Robotic vacuums that also mop are becoming increasingly popular and the DreameBot L20 Ultra is probably the most advanced model to date. Though it may require a significant investment, it could be the last vacuum robot you'll ever need to purchase.

Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus Review: Smart Home Lock for iPhone Owners

Tyler Hayes — Thu, 09 Nov 2023 11:01:23 GMT

The Yale Assure Lock 2 Plus successfully integrates Apple’s Home Key tech so you can unlock your door by simply hovering your iPhone or Apple Watch over it. Although it doesn’t do so cheaply, starting at just over $200, it is more affordable than some other Home Key compatible locks on the market.

Eufy X8 Pro Review: An AI-Powered Cleaning Assistant

Dave McQuilling — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 10:01:21 GMT

Modern life is a little hectic, so anything that can help with one of the boring, repetitive, tasks we’re all expected to perform will likely be welcome in most households. Robot vacuums attempt to do just that. They tackle what should be a daily cleaning task and allow us to get on with other things.

YouTube Music Arrives on Apple HomePod

Andrew Heinzman — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 16:06:14 GMT

The Apple HomePod only supports a handful of music services. Thankfully, YouTube Music is joining the party. You can now control YouTube Music playback from your HomePod using Siri voice commands. Previously, YouTube Music had to be beamed to the HomePod over AirPlay.

Matter Smart Home Standard Now Works With More Devices

Corbin Davenport — Mon, 23 Oct 2023 14:51:24 GMT

Matter is the growing industry standard that aims to make smart home devices easier to set up and manage. The first version arrived in October 2022, after several delays, but it wasn't the smart home revolution that we were hoping for. Now, an update is trying to fix that.

Brisk It Origin-940 Review: Smart Smoker for Less Babysitting

Tyler Hayes — Sat, 21 Oct 2023 10:00:23 GMT

How smart does a wood pellet smoker need to be? Anyone who has slept on the couch while a brisket cooked in the backyard would say it needs to be at least a little intelligent. The Brisk It Origin-940 connects to a mobile app over Wi-Fi for remote control and assistance with pre-programmed recipes. While a grill might not need to be a genius, having wireless access makes grilling a lot more convenient.

The Best Smart Lights of 2023

Mark LoProto — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 14:00:36 GMT

Smart lights are not just a way to add extra convenience to illuminating interior and exterior spaces. They're an opportunity to reduce energy consumption and create a personalized ambiance.

Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses Review: A True Beginning for Intelligent Frames

Tyler Hayes — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 07:00:36 GMT

I’m guilty of calling plenty of tech-infused glasses “smart,” even if the only thing they did was play audio through the stems. I don’t think any were any smarter than AirPods. But the Ray-Ban Meta Smart Glasses do actually bake in a hint of intelligence which could be the difference for why this product blossoms into its full potential, whereas Ray-Ban Stories from 2021 just wilted.

Google Brings Back Multiple Speaker Groups for Nest and Chromecast

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 15:39:31 GMT

An ongoing patent dispute with Sonos has made the Google Home ecosystem significantly worse for music fans. Some of Google's best home audio features, including universal volume control and flexible speaker grouping, have been stripped away from Nest and Chromecast products. But Google is finally leaving the courtroom with good news: two of Sonos' patents are invalid.

Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1 (7435) Review: A Smart Hybrid Device with Lasting Battery Life

Cianna Garrison — Wed, 11 Oct 2023 10:00:33 GMT

The Dell Inspiron 14 2-in-1 (7435) laptop marries portability, flexibility, and affordability. And while the hybrid laptop isn't chock-full of über-fancy specs, it delivers reliable performance that everyday laptop and tablet users will find satisfying.

TP-Link's New Wire-Free Security Camera Has 2K Video

Andrew Heinzman — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 14:40:35 GMT

Battery-powered security cameras are convenient, but they're also full of compromises. Now, TP-Link is setting a new standard with its Tapo Wire-Free Security Camera, a device that combines an ultra-convenient design with a built-in spotlight, 2K video resolution, free AI face detection, and a wealth of other useful features. The Tapo Wire-Free Security Camera is available today for $120, or just $300 if you purchase a three-pack.

Yeedi Cube Review: A Robot Vacuum and Mop Well Worth Its Price

Bryan M. Wolfe — Mon, 09 Oct 2023 10:00:35 GMT

I had the opportunity to test the Yeedi Cube robot vacuum and answer a critical question: can a robot vacuum look great and also perform well? After a month of testing, I am ready to give my verdict—and it's a good one overall.

Google Assistant Now Uses AI to "See" and "Hear"

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 17:13:17 GMT

Google Assistant is finally gaining true integration with the Bard AI. Over the coming months, Assistant will tap into the Bard AI when you ask it to compose a text message, create a travel itinerary, answer a complicated question, or perform other tasks. This functionality will extend to smartphones, where Assistant can also summarize web pages, generate captions for images on social media, and streamline your work in Gmail or Docs. These new capabilities were showcased at the Made by Google 2023 event, where Google also revealed the Pixel 8 smartphone and Pixel Watch 2 wearable.

You Don't Train a Robot Vacuum, It Trains You

Joe Fedewa — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 15:16:31 GMT

Robot vacuums (and mops) have one purpose: to do the cleaning so you don't have to. Generally, that works pretty well, but there's one side effect of having a robot cleaner I didn't expect. I'm better at cleaning now, too.

Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni Review: Cleaning Squared Away

Joe Fedewa — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 14:01:33 GMT

Many robot vacuums literally just vacuum, but some can do a whole lot more. The Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni is one such robot. It vacuums, mops, monitors your home, and cleans itself. The promises are as big as the price tag.

Should You Unplug Your TV When You're Not Watching It?

Sydney Butler — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 12:00:34 GMT

You may have heard that leaving your TV plugged in to the wall might put it at risk, or increase your power bill. While there may be some truth to this, does that mean that you should unplug your TV?

DeleteMe vs. Incogni: Which Works Smarter to Protect Your Data?

Commerce Team — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 13:21:35 GMT

One of life’s greatest struggles in the 21st century is achieving maximum privacy. With smart home devices constantly listening and websites perpetually collecting user data, it can feel impossible to protect your personal information. It feels even more hopeless when you factor in data brokers, the nefarious entities who exist solely to collect and sell your information to the highest bidders. Thankfully, the 21st century has options for technological remediation, specifically in the form of services like DeleteMe and Incogni.

The Best Smartwatches of 2023

Gaurav Shukla — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 14:00:32 GMT

There are quite a few options if you are considering upgrading from a traditional watch to a smartwatch. But which is the right choice for you? No matter your preferences or what type of phone you use, there's an option for you.

Google Nest’s Original Alexa Integration Is Going Away

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 15:10:15 GMT

Are you an Alexa user with a Nest Doorbell, Thermostat, or other Google-made smart home products? As of September 29th, Google will no longer support the original Nest Skills for Alexa system. This change will prevent Alexa from communicating with Nest hardware in older smart homes. Thankfully, the solution is pretty straightforward—migrate your Nest account to a Google account, delete the old Nest Alexa skill, remove all of your Nest products from the Alexa app, and install the new Google Nest Alexa skill from the Google Home app.

Amazon Is Shutting Down Alexa Guard and Paywalling Its Features

Andrew Heinzman — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 15:20:11 GMT

Amazon is discontinuing Alexa Guard in favor of Emergency Assist, a nearly identical service that was announced at the company's annual hardware event last week. If you paid $6 a month for Alexa Guard, this isn't a big deal, as Emergency Assist costs the same price. But if you're one of the many people who enjoyed the free version of Alexa Guard, your Echo devices will no longer alert you to potential break-ins or house fires.

Ember Tumbler Review: A Perfectly Smart Coffee Cup

Tyler Hayes — Mon, 25 Sep 2023 10:00:31 GMT

The world’s greatest way to maintain coffee temperature is getting a new addition to its family of products. The Ember Tumbler joins the Cup, Mug 2, and Travel Mug 2 to provide caffine enthusiasts the largest capacity container at 16 ounces. The caveat is the Tumbler comes in at a whopping $199.95, but don’t let that scare you off—at least yet.

Autonomous SmartDesk Core Review: An Economic Alternative With Minor Flaws

Mark LoProto — Sun, 24 Sep 2023 10:01:28 GMT

Standing desks are a great way to combat some common ails of office life, from stiff backs to bad knees. The Autonomous SmartDesk Core blends a sleek style with simple functionality but falls just short of some more premium options on the market.

Apple's HomePod Now Plays Spotify from Voice Commands

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 21 Sep 2023 15:52:14 GMT

The Apple HomePod only supports a handful of third-party music services, such as Pandora and Deezer. Other services, including Spotify, must be streamed to the HomePod over AirPlay or Bluetooth. But the iOS 17 update is improving things a bit. Now, any streaming app that supports Siri voice commands can be played and controlled directly from the HomePod. You can tell your HomePod to "play Spotify," and it'll actually work.

Philips Hue Will Soon Require Online Accounts to Control Lights

Corbin Davenport — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 20:40:47 GMT

Philips Hue was one of the first options for smart light bulbs, and the company has expanded over the years to include light strips, accent lighting for computer desks, and even smart cameras. Unlike many other smart home ecosystems, you didn't strictly need an online account to set up and manage devices on your local network. Unfortunately, that's now changing, and not everyone is happy about it.

Amazon's Eero Max 7 Router Offers Wi-Fi 7 and 10 Gig Connectivity

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 18:13:05 GMT

Along with new Fire TV hardware and improved Alexa functionality, Amazon is showing off its first Wi-Fi 7 router. The Eero Max 7 arrives later this year for $600—as you can probably guess, it's the best Eero router available to date, but it's totally overkill for most people. You should only buy this router if you pay for 10 Gig fiber internet, or if you own cutting-edge server equipment that could benefit from increased LAN speeds.

Amazon Bolsters Fire TV with a Soundbar, New 4K Hardware, and More

Andrew Heinzman — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 17:17:54 GMT

During its annual hardware event, Amazon launched its first Fire TV Soundbar and opened pre-orders for the upgraded Fire TV Stick 4K and TV Stick 4K Max. The company also revealed several improvements for its Fire TV operating system, including greatly improved voice search functionality and a new "Continue Watching" row for your home screen — these software improvements will roll out in late 2023.

Amazon Alexa Will Talk More Naturally, Thanks to AI

Corbin Davenport — Wed, 20 Sep 2023 17:03:26 GMT

Amazon today announced a few new products and service improvements, from updated Fire TV hardware and software to new Ring smart cameras. The company also discussed improvements coming to the Alexa voice assistant, which will (hopefully) make Alexa easier to talk to and better at answering questions.

Your Nest Hub Max Is Losing Video Calling

Andrew Heinzman — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 15:35:05 GMT

For many families, the Nest Hub Max is about to become a paperweight. Nest Hub Max will lose support for Google Meet on September 28th, and Zoom will leave the platform two days later. This marks the end of video calls on Nest Hub Max, assuming that Google doesn't roll out a new video call solution. Going forward, if you want to make video calls on a smart display, Amazon Echo is your best option.

Roborock Dyad Pro Review: A Smart Wet and Dry Vacuum With Limited Uses

Bryan M. Wolfe — Mon, 18 Sep 2023 10:00:26 GMT

The Roborock Dyad Pro is the company's only non-robotic vacuum cleaner. It has both wet and dry capabilities and offers a variety of benefits, but also comes with some negatives, including its high price point. After a month of extensive testing, I can see how it could be useful to a specific group of users—but not everyone.

Midea V12 Earns IFA Innovation Award with Its Advanced Technology

HTG Staff — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 18:50:02 GMT

In a world where smart technology continues to redefine convenience, the Midea V12 takes a prominent spot as a trailblazer in the realm of home cleaning. This groundbreaking robotic vacuum cleaner recently claimed the prestigious Innovation Award at IFA 2023, and it's easy to see why. With its revolutionary self-emptying and self-cleaning technology, versatile wet and dry cleaning capabilities, and eco-friendly design, the Midea V12 sets a new standard for automated cleaning solutions.

Wyze Cameras Just Had Another Big Security Problem

Arol Wright — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 17:43:37 GMT

With security cameras that exist in a constantly-connected world, the occasional bug or vulnerability is bound to strike sometimes. With something that's constantly recording inside or outside your house, though, the thought of a vulnerability striking your security cameras is really, really creepy. After all, if someone were to get into your cameras, they could have a look inside your house. Now, though, it looks like that's exactly what's happening to Wyze users, as some have reported seeing live feeds from other people's cameras. Yikes.

Roomba Just Revealed Its Priciest Robot Vacuum Ever

Arol Wright — Mon, 11 Sep 2023 15:34:13 GMT

The Roomba may have been the robot vacuum lineup that started it all, but competition has ramped up significantly over the past few years. We've seen some impressive options from Roborock, Narwal, and other companies. iRobot hasn't given up on the Roomba line, though, and now it has revealed its most expensive (and hopefully, most capable) model yet.

The Best Smart Home Hubs

Rob Webb — Wed, 06 Sep 2023 14:00:29 GMT

Chances are, you’ll already have smart devices in your household. With a smart home hub, you can control all your home’s smart devices easily from one place. So why not check out what a smart hub could do for you?

Nest Aware Subscription Prices Are Going Up

Arol Wright — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 14:03:20 GMT

If you have a Nest doorbell or other Nest smart cameras, a Nest Aware subscription is a must-have. It allows you to review and look over footage captured by your cameras, keep a history of events, and in general, keep tabs on what your cameras have seen. If you are subscribed to either Nest Aware's standard tier or the Plus tier, your prices are about to go up quite significantly.

9 Easy Smart Home Upgrades to Make Your Home Smarter

Tim Brookes — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 12:01:28 GMT

Do you wish you lived in a smarter home? The good news is that many smart home features can be added with small incremental upgrades, removing the need to replace high-ticket items entirely.

Grab An Echo Pop For $25 Today ($15 off)

Corbin Davenport — Fri, 01 Sep 2023 14:30:28 GMT

Earlier this year, Amazon revealed the Echo Pop, a new smart speaker with Alexa designed to offer more directional and clear sound than the regular Echo Dot and Echo. It has gone on sale a few times since then, and now you can buy one for $25 — a savings of $15 or 38% from the usual price.

Google Assistant and Alexa Come Together in JBL's New Speakers

Andrew Heinzman — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 17:11:58 GMT

Most smart speakers allow you to choose between Alexa or Google Assistant—one or the other, but never both. We treat this restriction as if it's something normal, and as a result, smart homes that rely on both Alexa and Google Assistant are needlessly over-complicated. Now, Harman is setting a new standard. Its new JBL Authentics speakers are the first to provide simultaneous voice assistant functionality for multi-assistant households.

Philips Hue is Getting Into The Home Security Business

Arol Wright — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 16:39:38 GMT

There are plenty of well-established brands in the smart home security system market, such as Arlo, Ring, and Google, but more competition is always appreciated. Surprisingly, Philips Hue is throwing its metaphorical hat into the home security ring, with a new lineup of cameras and sensors.

The Switchbot S10 Vacuum Will Drain Its Mop Water for You

Arol Wright — Thu, 31 Aug 2023 16:01:28 GMT

Robot vacuum cleaners are nothing new, but over the past few years, we've seen increasingly smarter versions that do more than just hit walls and get stuck on power cords. iRobot's lineup of Roomba vacuums and Braava moppers are two popular options, with some models being smarter than others. But what about a fully autonomous cleaning robot that you don't have to interact with at all? That's the goal for the SwitchBot S10.

Google Home's Script Editor Is Becoming More Powerful

Arol Wright — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 14:32:16 GMT

Google has one of the most solid smart home ecosystems around with Google Home and Google Nest. For those of you who want to get a little bit more technical with automations and routines, the script editor is a useful way to have a more automated and overall robust smart home. Now, new improvements are being made to the editor, potentially making Google Home one of the most capable smart home platforms currently available.

Govee Smart Curtain Lights Review: A DIY Illumination Extravaganza

Michael Bizzaco — Mon, 28 Aug 2023 10:01:27 GMT

The Govee Curtain Lights provide a unique way to add some LED-powered personality to your windows, doorways and walls for Christmas, Halloween, or year-round. And while users shouldn’t expect breathtaking visuals, the easy installation and fun customizations make this a worthwhile purchase you can customize all the time.

The Best Outdoor Security Cameras of 2023

Gaurav Shukla — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 14:00:29 GMT

Outdoor security cameras are not only helpful in keeping an eye on your home and property, but they also act as deterrents for intruders, vandals, and thieves. Here are our handpicked recommendations to help you keep your home and property safe.

How to Turn off the Google Assistant Power Button on Android

Joe Fedewa — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:31:28 GMT

There are multiple ways to launch Assistant on Pixel smartphones and Android devices. The list of options increased with the release of Android 12. Instead of long-pressing the Side button to open a power menu, Pixels default to launching Google Assistant. Thankfully, you can disable this feature.

10 Cable Management Tips for Around the Home

Tim Brookes — Mon, 21 Aug 2023 13:00:30 GMT

Are cables driving you around the twist? Not only are they unsightly, difficult to hide, and easy to tangle; they can be dangerous tripping or fire hazards too. Here are some tips for tidying, hiding, and better organizing cables around the home.

Lockly Smart Safe Review: The Epitome of Safekeeping

Michael Bizzaco — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 10:00:27 GMT

You may not use your Lockly Smart Safe every day, but when you've got valuable possessions and other important artifacts that need protecting, this remote-controlled safe is packed to the brim with useful lock-and-key features for you and yours.

The Best Smart Notebooks of 2023

Georgie Peru — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 14:00:26 GMT

Easily digitalize your notes, store them in the Cloud, and share them with others when you invest in a smart notebook. Remove the stress of finding a pen or losing paper and replace it with a more eco-friendly option.

Just Tap, Tap, Clean With the Roborock App

Neeraj Paruthi — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 13:35:27 GMT

If you're using a Roborock smart vacuum, you will be enjoying an easy cleaning experience that is designed to make your home shine like new. That's because Roborock puts customer care and a superior experience at the heart of all its cleaning solutions.

A Real Smart Home Should Work Offline

Sydney Butler — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 13:00:26 GMT

Your smart home likely depends on an electronic brain thousands of miles away. But as we grow more dependent on home automation, it's crucial that our smart homes continue to work even if the internet is down.

PSA: You Might Be Eligible for a Free Smart Thermostat

Jason Fitzpatrick — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 17:30:00 GMT

The cost of a smart thermostat certainly weighs into the decision to get one. But in many areas, power companies will give you one for a steep discount or even for free. Here's what you need to know.

TCL NXTWEAR S Review: Smart Glasses With Simple Vision

Tyler Hayes — Wed, 19 Jul 2023 10:01:21 GMT

The TCL NXTWEAR S glasses are essentially a wearable display. Plug the glasses into a tablet, computer, or phone and then you can see your device on a 10-foot equivalent screen. The glasses provide a huge viewing experience, but can also offer privacy in places you might not normally get it.

Roborock S8 Review: Great, But There are Better Options

Bryan M. Wolfe — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 10:00:21 GMT

The Roborock S8 robot vacuum has a lot of benefits. After thoroughly testing the device for over a month, I can confidently say it is highly effective, but only for certain users. It has some drawbacks that need to be considered, including its higher-than-expected price.

The Best Smart Showers of 2023

Rob Webb — Mon, 17 Jul 2023 11:00:24 GMT

Showering is an essential everyday act in polite society. A good shower can invigorate us when we wake up and provide a great way to relax at the end of a long day. So why not add a bit of luxury to your shower time by investing in a smart shower?

How Much Money Will Unplugging My TV and Accessories Save?

Jason Fitzpatrick — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 17:30:00 GMT

TV sets and all the various support devices and accessories can carry a surprising phantom load, adding to our electric bills even when we're not using them. Here's how much you can save by unplugging them.

Save 45% On Roborock's Vacuum Lineup in Big Prime Day Sale

Sponsored — Thu, 13 Jul 2023 15:35:00 GMT

Prime Day 2023 has finally arrived, and it's time to cash in on the best deals of the year. If you're in the market for an intuitive, time-saving robot vacuum, you won't want to miss the amazing discounts Roborock has to offer. You can save hundreds on their top-tier robot and manual vacuums during this annual sale.

The Best Smart Light Bulbs of 2023

Jon Bitner — Mon, 10 Jul 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Smart light bulbs can supercharge your home's ambiance and security with options to set light temperatures, brightness levels, schedules, and more right from your smartphone or smart home hub.

5 Smart Home Features You Should Use While On Vacation

Jason Fitzpatrick — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 17:30:00 GMT

Your smart home gear isn't just for your comfort and enjoyment when you're home. It's absolutely invaluable when you're on vacation. Here are common features and benefits you should set up before you head out the door.

Don't Miss These Summer Sales on Smartwatches, SSDs, and More

Meghan Herlihy — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 17:00:31 GMT

There's always some great summer sales around the Fourth of July, including in the technology sector. And even though the holiday itself is over, there are still some great deals out there, from the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5, Apple Watch Series 8, Samsung's 980 PRO 2TB SSD, and more.

Roborock S7 Max Ultra Review: A True Automatic Cleaning Masterpiece

Bryan M. Wolfe — Wed, 05 Jul 2023 10:00:57 GMT

The Roborock S7 Max Ultra is one of the company's new 2023 robot vacuum and mop machines. After testing the all-in-one device for nearly a month, I can confidently say Roborock has another winner on its hands with this model. However, it does come at a cost.

9 Common Energy Vampires Running Up Your Electric Bill

Jason Fitzpatrick — Sat, 01 Jul 2023 15:00:00 GMT

Who wants to pay good money for electricity they're not even getting any benefit from? Here are some common energy vampires to look for around your home.

The Steam Deck Is Now at Its Lowest Price Ever

Arol Wright — Thu, 29 Jun 2023 21:05:49 GMT

The Steam Deck is a popular way to take your favorite PC games (and emulators) with you in a handheld form factor, and it's continuing to get better with software updates. If you want to buy one, the Steam Deck is up to $130 off, but you should act quickly.

TP-Link's New Smart Light Switches Support Matter

Arol Wright — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 12:30:21 GMT

Matter hasn't quite lived up to its promise of an effort-free smart home platform, but some manufacturers are sticking with it. TP-Link is joining the fray with new smart switches of its own, belonging to its Tapo sub-brand.

Roborock's S7 MaxV Robot Vacuum Hit Its Best Price Ever, Plus More Deals

Meghan Herlihy — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 17:00:25 GMT

Summer is officially upon us, as are some fantastic deals on various tech devices and gadgets. Whether you're looking for a new robot vacuum to clean up after your guests, a GPS watch to help with your summer fitness goals, or a good price on a new smartphone, all of these deals and more are available this week.

The Philips Hue App is Getting New Features

Arol Wright — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 15:17:08 GMT

If you want to get a smart bulb, the Philips Hue lineup is among the best out there, and with good reason. Now, if you happen to own one of the company's smart lightbulbs, you'll be glad to know that the app is now getting a massive update adding new features and capabilities.

6 Inexpensive Ways to Cool Your Home This Summer

Jason Fitzpatrick — Wed, 21 Jun 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Summers aren't getting any cooler, so there's no time like the present to improve your home's cooling. Even if you don't have air conditioning, you might be surprised how easily you can turn your home into a cool oasis---no HVAC installation necessary.

Cut Your Summer Electric Bill by Supercooling Your Home

Jason Fitzpatrick — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 12:00:00 GMT

Energy prices are rising and summers aren't getting any cooler. If you're looking to save money and stay comfortable this summer, you should consider using a trick called supercooling to keep your house chillier for less.

Withings Body Smart Review: A Connected Scale For the Masses

Tyler Hayes — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 10:00:01 GMT

Withing's Wi-Fi-connected Body Smart scale is so smart it can even hide your weight from you---if you want it to. The "Eyes Closed" feature is meant to help you work towards a weight goal, and make it easier to fight through setbacks. It's just one of the features that make this scale great.

Should You Turn Your Water Heater Off While On Vacation?

Jason Fitzpatrick — Wed, 14 Jun 2023 15:00:00 GMT

If you're headed out of town for a while, you might be curious if you can turn off your water heater to save a little money. Here's what to consider before you do.

You Can Convert Coax Lines to Ethernet With MoCA Adapters

Jason Fitzpatrick — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 17:30:00 GMT

No Ethernet runs in your house? No problem. If you have coaxial cable, the stuff used for television connections, you can convert them to Ethernet for high-speed connectivity across your home.

How Are Smart Blinds Powered?

Jason Fitzpatrick — Sat, 10 Jun 2023 16:00:00 GMT

You might assume that smart blinds are all battery-powered, but there are more than a few ways to power the automagic of a smart blind assembly.

The Best Air Purifiers of 2023

Andy Nguyen — Fri, 09 Jun 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Air purifiers provide a healthy living space as they clean the air around you. They monitor air quality and eliminate odor to ensure you're always breathing fresh air. Check out our recommended list of purifiers to find the best one for you.

Will a Smart Thermostat Actually Save You Money?

Jason Fitzpatrick — Sun, 04 Jun 2023 17:30:00 GMT

There are a greater number of smart thermostats on the market than ever before, and one of the selling points is that they will save you money. But will they? Here are some key things to consider.

The Best Smart Smoke Detectors of 2023

Rob Webb — Fri, 02 Jun 2023 10:00:23 GMT

Smoke detectors save lives. And thanks to smart technology, smoke detectors are more effective than ever. With a host of integrated smart features, you can easily keep track of your smoke detector on your smartphone, and ensure it's working at optimum efficiency to protect your home.

TP-Link Has a New Outdoor Security Camera

Arol Wright — Thu, 01 Jun 2023 08:30:42 GMT

Finding the right outdoor camera can be complicated, but luckily, there are plenty of good options out there. This camera by TP-Link's sub-brand, Tapo, might just be the one you've been looking for.

10 Smart Thermostat Features You Should Be Using

Jason Fitzpatrick — Tue, 30 May 2023 17:30:00 GMT

Upgrading to a smart thermostat is great, but if you don't use all the features, you're leaving a ton of benefits on the table. Make sure you're taking full advantage of these smart thermostat perks.

The Best Smart Space Heaters of 2023

Georgie Peru — Fri, 26 May 2023 10:00:47 GMT

If you're looking for an efficient way to stay warm at home, smart space heaters offer warmth, comfort, and convenience in a modern package. Smart space heaters let you access and control the heat in your space no matter where you are via apps and smart home integration.

How Long Do Video Doorbells Last?

Joe Fedewa — Tue, 23 May 2023 08:00:34 GMT

People like to upgrade their gadgets regularly, but that doesn't seem to include video doorbells. Once installed, they basically just do their thing. But does a Ring or Nest smart doorbell have a shelf life?

Grab an Ecobee Premium Smart Thermostat on Sale Today

Corbin Davenport — Fri, 19 May 2023 10:52:51 GMT

Summer is coming up (in the northern hemisphere, anyway), and setting up a smart thermostat can make your home's air systems much easier to manage and more efficient. Now you can grab an Ecobee smart thermostat for 12% off the usual price.

The Best Smart Locks of 2023

Russ Ware — Thu, 18 May 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Upgrading to a smart lock allows you to monitor the status of your door and lock and unlock it remotely. They improve the security of your home and are easy to install. Let's check out the top smart locks currently available.

Amazon Reveals New "Echo Pop" and Updated Smart Displays

Corbin Davenport — Wed, 17 May 2023 14:12:10 GMT

Amazon's Echo lineup started with a single speaker, and has grown to include smart displays, earbuds, and a lot more speakers. Two Echo devices are now receiving a refresh, and there's a completely new speaker.

This Smart TV Is Free, But It Watches You (and You Watch Ads)

Corbin Davenport — Wed, 17 May 2023 10:56:21 GMT

Free and ad-supported streaming services like Pluto TV and The Roku Channel have become more popular over the past few years, but what if the TV itself was free too? That's what "Telly" is trying.

I'm Done Waiting for Matter's Smart Home Standard to Matter

Chris Hoffman — Wed, 17 May 2023 07:00:09 GMT

Matter was supposed to be transformative. I bought a house in early 2022 and decided to wait for Matter to launch and become widespread before I started investing in smart home gear. One year later, I'm done waiting.

Google Nest Hub (2nd Gen) Review: Still Our Favorite Smart Display

Jason Fitzpatrick — Tue, 16 May 2023 06:00:56 GMT

With another Google I/O behind us and no direct replacement for the second-generation Google Nest Hub in sight, one thing is clear. The Nest Hub is still the best value in the Google Home ecosystem and is a great bedroom-friendly smart home display.

How to Read Text Messages Out Loud With Android

Joe Fedewa — Sat, 13 May 2023 16:00:00 GMT

It's not always convenient to read text messages on your Android phone, especially if you're driving. Rather than risk the danger, you can use Android's built-in features to read text out loud. It's probably already set up.

Peloton Is Recalling 2 Million Bikes Due to Injuries

Corbin Davenport — Thu, 11 May 2023 15:38:58 GMT

Peloton became a household name during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, as many people were looking for ways to stay fit from home. Unfortunately, many of the bikes it has sold since 2018 are now being recalled due to injury risks.

The Best Smart Thermostats of 2023

Jon Bitner — Thu, 11 May 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Upgrading to a smart thermostat is a great way to save money on your annual energy bill and automate your home. However, choosing the right one for your home isn't easy. We have the best for your budget and smart home ecosystem.

ECOVACS DEEBOT T10 OMNI Review: Tech Overload Versus Dirty Floors

Bill Loguidice — Thu, 11 May 2023 06:00:26 GMT

With window cleaning, lawnmowing, pool cleaning, and other types of useful household robots now saturating the marketplace, robotic vacuums seem a bit mundane. ECOVACS hopes to change that perception with the DEEBOT T10 OMNI, its newest, techno-centric combination of a vacuum and mop.

The Best Budget Smartwatches of 2023

Gaurav Shukla — Wed, 10 May 2023 14:00:00 GMT

Buying a budget smartwatch can feel daunting given the sheer number of options from both popular and relatively unknown brands. But you don't need to sacrifice all the features you want to save money.

Roku's New Smart Device Is a Home Monitoring System

Corbin Davenport — Wed, 10 May 2023 09:00:13 GMT

Roku has been slowly expanding its smart home products, from security cameras to light bulbs. The company's latest offering is a home monitoring system, with optional 24/7 professional monitoring.

The Best Smart Air Conditioners of 2023

Jon Bitner — Mon, 08 May 2023 10:00:18 GMT

Smart air conditioners give you tons of added convenience and features over traditional options. the best smart ACs will connect seamlessly with your smart home ecosystem, allow you to control your unit remotely, and create schedules.

Is an Electric Lawn Mower Right for You?

Jason Fitzpatrick — Sun, 07 May 2023 13:00:00 GMT

If you've looked at electric mowers down at the local big box hardware and wondered if one would be a good fit for your needs, we're here to help. They're great pieces of hardware, but they're not the right fit for everyone---or every lawn.

These Inexpensive LEDs Will Light Up Dim Spaces in Your Home

Jason Fitzpatrick — Wed, 03 May 2023 17:30:00 GMT

Almost everybody has a spot somewhere in their home that isn't as brightly lit as they'd like. With LEDs cheaper than ever, there's no time like the present to light the place up like a stadium. From shop lights to can light retrofits, here are our favorite upgrades.

Matter Support Is Coming to More Amazon Echo Speakers

Arol Wright — Tue, 02 May 2023 17:09:11 GMT

Google started rolling out support for Matter to its smart home devices last year, but Amazon wasn't ready to flip the switch on its own hardware just yet. That's now changing, as Matter support is rolling out to some of Amazon's smart home devices.

The Best Ring Alternatives of 2023

Jon Bitner — Tue, 02 May 2023 14:00:00 GMT

If you're not sold on the Amazon Ring lineup of products, there's no shortage of great options in today's market. Here are the best Ring alternatives from video doorbells and outdoor security cameras to floodlights and alarm systems.