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Smart Home Guides

The Blink Mini on a countertop.

How to remove a Blink Mini from its stand

How to remove a Blink Mini from its stand

Trying to remove the Blink Mini from its stand without damaging any components? It's an easy process, although it requires some muscle. Here's how it works.
blink expands lineup affordable video doorbell floodlight camera

Are Blink’s floodlight and solar panel add-ons worth it?

Are Blink’s floodlight and solar panel add-ons worth it?

The Blink Outdoor Cam is a versatile camera with a set of accessories that make it even more powerful -- but is the added cost for these accessories worth it?
The Google Nest Hub Smart Display on a nightstand.

How to factory reset your Google Nest Hub

How to factory reset your Google Nest Hub

Need to troubleshoot or trade in your Google Nest Hub? Factory resetting the device is easy and literally takes less than a minute. Here's how to reset yours.
Amazon Echo Show 5th Generation on a shelf with dishes.

How to fix an Echo Dot with clock display that isn’t working

How to fix an Echo Dot with clock display that isn’t working

If you're trying to fix an Echo Dot with clock display that isn't working or is unresponsive, there are a few things you can try.
The Hatch Restore 2 on a nightstand.

How to turn off the alarm on Hatch Restore 2

How to turn off the alarm on Hatch Restore 2

There are several ways to turn off the alarm on your Hatch Restore 2, such as using the physical button on the device or through a companion app on your phone.
Alexa together.

How to use Alexa Together

How to use Alexa Together

Alexa Together is a useful suite of Alexa features designed to help you keep tabs on family members remotely. Let's explore the many things the platform can do.
Arlo Essential Indoor Security Camera on table

How to reset an Arlo Essential Indoor Camera

How to reset an Arlo Essential Indoor Camera

If you want to restore your device to its factory settings, here's how to reset the Arlo Essential Indoor Camera and remove it from your Arlo Secure app.
Image of Google Home, 16:9 scale

What is Google Home?

What is Google Home?

Considering making your home smart? Here's what you need to know about adopting the Google Home smart home ecosystem.
Alexa app on phone.

What to do if your Amazon Alexa app is not working

What to do if your Amazon Alexa app is not working

Experiencing issues with the Amazon Alexa app? Here are a few ways you can fix an unresponsive Alexa app or one that's not working as intended.
The Restore 2 on a nightstand.

Hatch Restore vs. Hatch Restore 2: what has changed?

Hatch Restore vs. Hatch Restore 2: what has changed?

The Hatch Restore 2 is an upgraded version of the original Hatch Restore, but what exactly has changed? Here's a comparison of the two unique smart alarms.
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 installed near a door.

Do you need a subscription for a Ring doorbell or camera?

Do you need a subscription for a Ring doorbell or camera?

Ring makes some of the best video doorbells and security cameras on the market, but do you need a subscription to use them? Here's everything you need to know.
The Hatch Restore 2 on a nightstand.

Do you need a subscription to use Hatch Restore 2?

Do you need a subscription to use Hatch Restore 2?

A premium membership option is available for the Hatch Restore and Hatch Restore 2, but here’s what you need to know before subscribing.
Sonos Era 100, beside a turntable.

11 Sonos tips, tricks, and little-known features

11 Sonos tips, tricks, and little-known features

Interested in getting the most out of your Sonos speakers? These are the tips and tricks you need to know when using a Sonos speaker for top-tier audio.
Amazon Echo Show 5th Generation on a shelf.

How to connect Matter devices to Amazon Alexa

How to connect Matter devices to Amazon Alexa

Connecting Matter devices to Amazon Alexa is a simple process, but there are a few requirements to be aware of. Here's everything you need to know.
amazon echo dot review

How to enable whisper mode on Alexa, and how exactly it works

How to enable whisper mode on Alexa, and how exactly it works

With whisper mode, you can chat with Alexa whenever you want, even at 3 a.m. This guide shows you how to enable this cool feature and explains how it works.
Amazon Echo (4th Gen) on a kitchen counter.

How to use Multi-Room Music with Amazon Alexa

How to use Multi-Room Music with Amazon Alexa

Want to play music throughout your entire home? Here's a look at how to use the Multi-Room Music feature available on most Amazon Echo devices.
The Arlo Pro 5S installed outside on a wall.

How to add friends to your Arlo account

How to add friends to your Arlo account

Adding friends to your Arlo account gives them limited access to your security camera network. Here's how to add friends to or delete them from your account.
Ring Contact Sensor installed on a door.

How to bypass a Ring Sensor

How to bypass a Ring Sensor

Looking to bypass a Ring Sensor without disabling your entire system? Then you'll need to make use of the Quick Exit feature. Here's how it works.
The Google Nest Hub Smart Display on a nightstand.

How to add a Matter-enabled device to Google Home

How to add a Matter-enabled device to Google Home

Adding a Matter-enabled device to Google Home is a simple process, and it should only take a few minutes from start to finish. Here's how it works.
The Google Nest Audio speaker on a table.

Sonos One vs. Google Nest Audio: which is the best smart speaker?

Sonos One vs. Google Nest Audio: which is the best smart speaker?

The Google Nest Audio and Sonos One are among the best smart speakers of 2023. But which is best for you? Here's a closer look at both to help you decide.
The Amazon Smart Thermostat hanging on wall.

How to fix an Amazon Smart Thermostat that’s unresponsive or not working as expected

How to fix an Amazon Smart Thermostat that’s unresponsive or not working as expected

If you're looking to fix an unresponsive Amazon Smart Thermostat, there are plenty of troubleshooting steps you can try. Here's what you need to know.
The Arlo Pro 4 home security camera installed outdoors.

What is Arlo Secure, and is it worth it?

What is Arlo Secure, and is it worth it?

While Arlo products will work right out of the box, you can access additional features by signing up for Arlo Secure. Here's what to know about the service.
The Ring Video Doorbell in Satin Nickel, installed beside a doorway.

How to change the owner on a Ring Doorbell

How to change the owner on a Ring Doorbell

If you're buying or selling a home that has a Ring Doorbell, you'll need to transfer ownership of the device. The process is straightforward and simple, though.
Amazon Echo Show 5th Generation on a countertop.

How to turn off the clock on your Echo Dot

How to turn off the clock on your Echo Dot

Amazon gives you an easy way to turn off the clock on your Echo Dot, and there's even an option to adjust its brightness. Here's how it works.
The Sonos One smart speaker on a countertop.

How to reset Sonos One smart speaker

How to reset Sonos One smart speaker

Looking to sell your Sonos One? Here's how to perform a factory reset on the Sonos One smart speaker and remove all your sensitive information.
The Sonos One smart speaker on a countertop.

Sonos One vs. HomePod mini: which smart speaker is best?

Sonos One vs. HomePod mini: which smart speaker is best?

The Sonos One and HomePod mini are two of the best smart speakers of 2023. But which is best for your home? Here's a closer look at both to help you decide.
The Arlo Pro 4 home security camera installed outdoors.

Arlo Pro 4 vs. Arlo Pro 5S: which security camera comes out on top?

Arlo Pro 4 vs. Arlo Pro 5S: which security camera comes out on top?

The Arlo Pro 4 and Arlo Pro 5S are two of the best smart security cameras of 2023. But which is best for your home? Here's a closer look at both products.
Amazon Echo 4th Gen on a table.

How to disable Amazon Sidewalk (and why you should)

How to disable Amazon Sidewalk (and why you should)

Whether you don't trust big tech with your data or you're not looking to share any part of your Wi-Fi, here's how to disable Amazon Sidewalk with the Alexa app.
Nest Audio on a table.

How to reset Google Nest Audio

How to reset Google Nest Audio

If you're looking to sell your Google Nest Audio (or you're running into technical issues), resetting the smart speaker is a great idea. Here's how it works.
New 2021 Homepod Mini colors.

How to reset your HomePod mini

How to reset your HomePod mini

Is your HomePod mini acting funny? Or are you preparing to sell it? Here's how to reset your HomePod mini and restore its factory settings.
Wyze Smart thermostat installed on wall being adjusted.

How to reset the Wyze Thermostat

How to reset the Wyze Thermostat

Whether you're running into technical issues or preparing to sell your smart thermostat, here's how to factory reset your Wyze Thermostat.
Amazon Smart Plug.

How to set a timer on Amazon Smart Plugs

How to set a timer on Amazon Smart Plugs

If you're looking to automate your outlets, Amazon Smart Plugs are a great option. Here's what you need to know about creating a timer for your smart plugs.
The Google Nest Hub Smart Display on a nightstand.

The best Google Assistant-compatible devices

The best Google Assistant-compatible devices

Google Assistant can control lights, plugs, switches, thermostats, and more. Here are some of our favorite Google Home-compatible devices you can buy in 2023.
New 2021 Homepod Mini colors.

How to fix an orange flashing light on the HomePod mini

How to fix an orange flashing light on the HomePod mini

If you've encountered a flashing orange light on your HomePod mini, you're not alone. Here's a look at what causes the error and a few ways to fix it.