Google’s collaboration with Amazon, Apple is what the smart home needs right now
Apple, Amazon, and Google have partnered to create a new smart home protocol called the Connected Home Over IP. This protocol will be open source and benefit from the best parts of each company. The aim of the collective is to create a better smart home in which all devices have interoperability.
5 smart toys you shouldn’t buy for your kids
In 2015, VTech experienced a security breach that revealed the personal information of 6.4 million kids. Make sure you know what to look for when purchasing "smart" toys for your kids. Only purchase from trusted retailers and make sure any toys you buy comply with safety standards.
WiCharge’s PowerPuck can power your smart home devices through the air
The Wi-Charge PowerPuck provides energy over the air through infrared waves, giving you the ability to power your smart home devices without cables or cords. The PowerPuck fits into a wall outlet or can be screwed into a light socket. It's slated to begin shipping in 2020.
LG adds air fryers and clear oven doors to its ThinQ range of smart ovens
The LG InstaView ThinQ Range of smart ovens now has an air fryer built right in, which doesn't require preheating to operate, so you can get dinner on the table faster. You can also knock twice on the door to light up the oven and check on what you're cooking, saving energy and reducing the overall cook time of a dish.
Honeywell’s vision of the ‘smart office’ focuses on efficiency and savings
Honeywell has moved away from smart home technology. Now, the company has a bigger focus: Connected buildings. I toured Honeywell's headquarters in Atlanta to see how the company is improving the office through its Vector app, which brings the conveniences of the smart home to the workplace.
Want to control everything in your house via voice? Install these power outlets
The ConnectSense In-Wall Smart Outlet is a smart plug that takes the place of an existing outlet in your home. A bit of simple wiring work is all it takes to make an essential part of your home truly "smart." The device is available for purchase from Amazon now in both a 15-amp and 20-amp version.
The best cappuccino makers: Ninja, Breville, DeLonghi, and more
Cappuccino makers are more complex than coffeemakers, which can make it hard to narrow down which options are the best for you. Here, we've collected the best cappuccino makers on the market in one place so you can save yourself from another expensive trip to Starbucks.
Qualifying Google Fi customers can receive a Google Nest Mini for free
If you were a Google Fi customer as of December 9 of this year, you qualify to receive a Nest Home Mini for free. The smart speaker is one of the easiest ways to experience the benefits of a smart assistant and all the control it brings to a smart home.
First smart TVs, now your smart home can be compromised, FBI warns
Following recent warnings about Smart TV security, a new statement released by the FBI warns owners of smart home systems that their connected devices might be leaving them vulnerable to hackers. They offer a list of steps to help beef up your cybersecurity practices.
Exercise while working at your desk with the foldable WalkingPad R1 treadmill
The WalkingPad R1 Pro is an improved version of the original WalkingPad with a balancing handle, better impact cushioning, and a quieter motor. The device can be folded up and stored out of the way. It is available for early-bird prices right now through Indiegogo.
Google Nest Hub vs. Amazon Echo Show: Which Cyber Monday deal is better?
Both the Amazon Echo Show and the Google Nest Hub are still on sale for Cyber Week. This is the perfect time to pick which one you prefer and beef up your smart home with a bright new display, but choosing between the two can be difficult. We're here to help you decide.
This self-emptying Roomba robot vacuum is still $400 off for Cyber Monday
The iRobot Roomba i7+ is the Maserati of robot vacuums. With smart navigation, self-emptying capabilities, and the ability to sync with the Braava jet m6 to vacuum and mop your floor at the same time, $700 is a steal. You can find it now at Walmart and other retailers for a limited time.
Best Cyber Monday smart speaker deals: Alexa, Google Home, Sonos, and more
Black Friday is over, but you can still save on the smart speaker you've been waiting for. More fantastic deals are on the way tomorrow with Cyber Monday. Digital Trends will keep this page updated with all of the best savings on Alexa, Google Home, Sonos, and more.
Say hello to the Nest Hello Video Doorbell for $150 at Target and Best Buy
A video doorbell can help prevent package theft and give you a glimpse of who exactly is at your door. Target and Best Buy have the powerful Nest Hello Video Doorbell for $150 today and tomorrow. It's a great deal for a doorbell that stands out from the competition.
Get a smart light starter kit with a Google Home Mini for $26 at Best Buy
The Google Smart Light Starter Kit comes with a Google Home Mini and a GE C-Life smart bulb for the low price of $26. It's the perfect way to break into smart home technology for the first-time user. Grab it now from Best Buy while supplies last.
Grab this $160 Shark ION RV700 robot vac from Walmart before sale goes away
A robot vacuum is one of those quality-of-life items that can save you more time than you've ever imagined. Pick up the Shark ION RV700 for just $160 at Walmart with this great Black Friday sale. A similarly-priced Roomba 670 is also available for just $197 from Walmart.
Roomba vs. Shark Ion robot vacuums: Which Black Friday deals are better?
Both Roomba and Shark Ion robot vacuums are powerful devices capable of cleaning your home, but both are hefty investments. Read on to find out which one gives more bang for your buck based on runtime, capacity, extra features, and more.
‘Ring’ in the holidays with new doorbell chimes from video doorbell maker
Make your home more festive with these 13 holiday-themed doorbell chimes from Ring. You can choose from Christmas-oriented tones to keep even your smart devices in the holiday spirit. The chimes are available for download and use for any Ring users.
The R2-D2 Instant Pot can help you make dinner at lightspeed
Instant Pot released a series of Star Wars-themed Instant Pots. Five models are available featuring R2-D2, BB-8, Chewbacca, Darth Vader, and a Stormtrooper. There's no Baby Yoda yet, though. Let the Force guide your hand as you cook a delicious dinner with your favorite Star Wars character.
If you’re tired of pressing buttons, let the Fingerbot do it remotely
The Fingerbot is a small smart home device with an extendable arm that can toggle switches and press buttons on appliances. It connects remotely to your network and gives smart control of "dumb" appliances. The Fingerbot will be available for purchase soon and is offering early bird pricing.
The Adobe Iota all-in-one home security system gains Apple HomeKit support
The Adobe Iota, an all-in-one home security solution, released an update today that added HomeKit compatibility and support to the system. Users can arm and disarm, check a livestream, and more through the Home app. HomeKit support is slated for the Gen 1 and Gen 2 systems in the future.
Project Understood improves Google’s voice recognition for those with Down syndrome
Google Assistant does a good job of understanding most queries, but not from everyone. Project Understood helps improve Google's accuracy in understanding individuals with Down Syndrome. Voice technology offers a chance for patients to live more independent lives, but they must be understood.
Cortana breaks up with Android and iOS to go steady with Microsoft 365
Last week, Microsoft announced it would end Cortana support for Android and iOS devices on January 31 in a bid to integrate the smart assistant into Microsoft 365 productivity apps. The smart assistant never reached the same audience as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.
Metal-bodied Huawei Sound X Smart Speaker expected to launch soon
A spec sheet for a new Huawei smart speaker has leaked on Weibo and it shows the first images of the long-rumored Huawei Sound X. The speaker is expected to be announced in late November alongside the Huawei MatePad tablet, but specific details about the smart speaker are still scarce.
Google Assistant provides a smarter way to listen to the news you care about
The "Your News Update" feature from Google Assistant makes it easier than ever to listen to the news when you're on the go. Just ask to hear the news and receive a tailored series of stories based on your interests. The update is available now and can be selected within the Google Assistant app.
Sparkel shines with its at-home sparkling beverage system, now on sale
The Sparkel is an at-home sparkling beverage system about the size of a standard coffee maker that lets users infuse CO2 into drinks through natural processes to create sparkling water and other healthy libations. Users can create their own cocktails, soda, and much more.
Apple patent aims for more streamlined control of your home lighting
Apple filed a patent this month that indicates a new type of smart light sensor might be on the way that has the potential to implement a TrueTone-like system into smart home lighting. The patent describes two primary components: A light condition sensor and a light control device.
Ikea’s Tradfri smart light bulb launches with a price to die for
If you're a fan of exposed filaments and classic flair, the Edison-style bulb might appeal to you. These decorative bulbs have caught on recently, but Ikea just introduced one for cheap. At a fraction of the cost of comparable smart bulbs, Ikea stands poised to enter the decorative light market.
Smart home changes the life of Marine who lost leg during service
Marine Corporal Chad Watson lost his leg in an IED explosion in 2006. In recognition of his service, the Marine has been given a new smart home that makes life easier for the wounded warrior. The smart home was built by a partnership between the Gary Sinise Foundation and James Galla, a local electronic's store owner.
Always be a video call away from your pets with the PetChatz HDX
Nothing feels like your pet rushing to meet you after a long day of work. Their furry faces can soothe even the most stressful day. With PetChatz HDX, you can see your pet's face at any time. The streaming video camera lets you talk, give treats, and even play games with your pet from afar.
At home or away, the modular Hexcal Monolith ‘e-Butler’ charges all your devices
The Hexcal Monolith is a modular power-management device that offers fast charging of more than 300 different devices. The modular design makes it easy to take with you when you're on the go. Integrated voice control provides real-time updates of your devices' charge status.
Best Buy will shut down its Insignia smart home products, making them dumb again
Best Buy is shutting down its Insignia line of smart home devices tomorrow. Any devices will lose their "smart" functionality, but most will still act as a "dumb" version except for the smart camera. Customers can receive a partial refund for their products by going online.
Would you really spend $220 on Oral-B’s new A.I.-powered smart toothbrush?
Your dental hygiene is important, but is it worth it to drop $200 on an electric toothbrush when there are multiple lower-cost options available? The Oral-B Genius X sets the bar high, but it's price point makes it cost-prohibitive to many people that could get by with a more affordable option.
Create more healthy meals with the 11-in-1 Instant Pot Duo Crisp and Air Fryer
The Instant Pot Duo Crisp + Air Fryer doubles as both an Instant Pot and an air fryer, allowing you to create healthy, delicious meals in a fraction of the time. Say goodbye to TV dinners for weeknight meals and say hello to delicious home cooking with none of the usual effort.