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.
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.
‘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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Eufy Security Smart Lock offers bank-grade security for the home
Anker subsidiary Eufy has announced the Eufy Security Smart Keypad and the Eufy Security Smart Lock. The Eufy Security Smart Keypad will be available in December 2019, while the Eufy Security Smart Lock will make its debut in the first quarter of 2020. they will retail for $40 and $169, respectively.
Swann beefs up its home security offerings with 4K recording and DVR/NVR
Swann announced a number of new smart security cameras with powerful features and high-resolution recording capabilities, as well as a digital ecosystem to manage it all. The Swann Security app provides users with analytics, facial recognition, smart alerts, and much more.
Google VP says guests should be informed if you have smart devices in the home
In an interview with the BBC, Google VP Rick Osterloh said that homeowners should inform guests if they have smart devices that might film or record their conversations, a statement that has raised concerns over privacy. The statement follows several incidents in the previous months surrounding smart devices.
Nanoleaf’s Screen Mirror creates 4D sensory experiences for all your media
Nanoleaf's Screen Mirror feature reflects what you see on your television or computer monitor on the light panels around you. This feature, along with a new desktop app, takes Netflix and chill to the next level. Screen Mirror is available now for any Nanoleaf customers.
Avoid the Krack attack that could break your Amazon Echo and Kindle’s back
A smart home research team discovered that the first-generation Amazon Echo and the eight-generation Amazon Kindle were vulnerable to Krack attacks, a type of cyberattack that would allow hackers access over Wi-Fi. Amazon says the vulnerabilities have since been patched.
Don’t be surprised that Amazon workers are watching footage from the Cloud Cam
After the public outcry against the practice of using human reviewers on voice and video recordings, Amazon gave users the ability to opt out of human review, but it's important to understand what the review is for. Human reviewers improve an A.I.'s ability to understand and respond to users.
Survey: Many people want to use their smart TVs for more than just watching shows
A survey and infographic produced by YouGov shows that people aren't satisfied with the current integration of smart TVs into the home, and quite a few want their TVs to give them more control over smart devices. The survey reveals that content consumption is only one of many ways people use their TV.
Forget the gym. Mirror brings one-on-one personal training to your living room
Mirror, a fitness-focused smart mirror, now offers one-on-one personal training in your home by utilizing the device's two-way video and audio. The service starts at $40 per session. Mirror users can also try out personalized workouts based on their biometric data with a $39 per month subscription service.
Rock-a-bye baby: The Adiva One is a smart bed that literally rocks you to sleep
If you miss being rocked to sleep, the Adiva One might be worth checking out. This smart bed uses a gentle oscillatory motion to help users reach deeper, better levels of sleep. The bed is powered by artificial intelligence that tracks the quality of your sleep. It's available now on Indiegogo.
You can now apply for a job at McDonald’s via Google Home or Amazon Alexa
Apply Thru is a voice skill from McDonald's that lets Amazon Alexa and Google Home users start the job application process from their couch. McDonald's hopes that by making applying for a job easier, more people will be encouraged to look for work without worrying about a long online application form.
A leaked image suggests Arlo might have designed a rival to the Nest Hello
Leaked images from tech site zatznotfunny suggest that Arlo may have a smart video doorbell on par with the Nest Hello on the way. Details are limited to what is visible in the picture, but the two devices look similar and have left Arlo fans clamoring for more details and information.
Amazon announces new $59 Echo Dot with a bright LED clock
Amazon announced a new Echo Dot at its Devices Event that looks just about the same as previous models -- except it's got a clock. The new $59.99 Echo Dot with Clock has the same look and function as previous models with one major exception: it now boasts a large, bright LED clock on the side.
The Amazon Echo Flex is compact enough to bring Alexa everywhere in the home
The Amazon Echo Flex is a small, compact device that can be plugged in anywhere and includes a USB port that can charge devices or to connect accessories like a motion sensor or a smart night-light. Amazon says more accessories are planned. The Echo Flex can be pre-ordered for $25.
A hacker terrorized this family through their smart camera and thermostat
A family in Wisconsin came home to a modern-age nightmare: their smart home under the control of a hacker who thought it would be some kind of twisted fun to terrorize them. And they aren't the first. Multiple smart homes have been hacked, and Google says it's because users do not use enough security.