Tapo’s new Smart Wi-Fi Switch and Dimmer work with any Matter-enabled platform, including Apple Home, Alexa, Google Home, and SmartThings.
I’m excited about these. Switches are a great way to get started with smart lighting, but the few there are that work with all the platforms are expensive. These start at $25.
Smart home company Eve may have an AirPlay 2 dongle in the works — if FCC filings discovered by German tech blog AppGefahren are to be believed.
“Eve Play is an easy-to-use plug-and-play interface compatible with Apple AirPlay 2,” states the description. Images show coaxial, optical, and analogue audio outputs, as well as Ethernet. It’s also listed as HomeKit compatible.
If it’s small enough, the Eve Play could be a good alternative to the much-missed Chromecast Audio. Although, knowing Eve, it’s unlikely to cost as little as $35.
If you have a professionally-monitored Ring Alarm security system, you may have sheepishly answered the door to a fully suited-up firefighter.
Until now, the only way to cancel an emergency response to a false fire alarm triggered by a smoke alarm or smoke alarm listener was by answering a phone call from the monitoring center. If you missed the call, the trucks would be rolling.
A new update now lets you dismiss the alarm in the Ring app or on the Ring keypad. (CO alarms still can’t be canceled).
One couple’s starter home in a connected community in California shows how smart energy powered by smart home technology could be the future of affordable, energy-independent living.
Z-Box is a new dedicated Z-Wave hub from Zooz, but rather than leave you to build your own solution, it comes with three custom-built fixes for common problems: a DIY home Security Kit, a Flood Water Protection Kit, and a Smart Garage Door Kit.
It reminds me of the early days of SmartThings and makes Z-Wave — with its robust security, long-range, and local control — feel more accessible as an option for anyone just starting out with a smart home.
One connected lock does not a smart home make. If you want to get serious with home automation, start with a smart home platform.
As connected becomes the default for every household appliance — from TVs and washing machines to ovens and vacuums — we break down exactly what makes a home ‘smart’ and help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.