Smart Bulb 360

,

We have had the opportunity to test and review the Smart Bulb 360 from Amazon. Overall, we were impressed with the product’s features and performance.

The Smart Bulb 360 is a multifunctional device that combines a security camera with a smart light bulb. With its 360-degree panoramic view, the camera provides a wide-angle view of the surroundings, making it ideal for monitoring indoor and outdoor spaces. The camera has a 2K 3MP resolution that provides clear, high-quality images and videos, even in low light conditions.

This Smart Bulb also has motion detection and two-way audio, which allows users to communicate with anyone in the room or space being monitored. It is also easy to install and compatible with most E27 light sockets, making it a convenient and cost-effective solution for home security. You can find out more if you download the companion app for the Smart Bulb 360, such as the Amazon Alexa app or the Smart Life app on your smartphone or tablet.

We were also impressed with the user-friendly app that it pairs with. This app allows users to access and control the device from their smartphones or tablets. The app provides real-time video streaming, and users can also set motion detection alerts and customize other settings.

We would highly recommend the Smart Bulb 360 to our customers as a smart, reliable, and affordable home security solution. Its combination of a smart light bulb and security camera makes it a unique and versatile product that offers excellent value for money.

/0 Comments/by

Amazon Echo Dot Review

,
Amazon Echo Dot Review

In recent years, smart home devices have become increasingly popular, and one of the most sought-after products in this category is the Amazon Echo Dot and wer’e here to give the review. The Echo Dot is a smart speaker that connects to Alexa, Amazon’s virtual assistant, and allows users to control their smart home devices, listen to music, and access a range of services.

There are currently four different Echo Dot models on the market: the Echo Dot (3rd generation), the Echo Dot (4th generation), the Echo Dot with Clock (3rd generation), and the Echo Dot Kids Edition (4th generation).

  1. Echo Dot (3rd generation) The Echo Dot (3rd generation) is the most basic model in the Echo Dot range. It has a fabric design and comes in three colors: Charcoal, Heather Gray, and Sandstone. It has a 1.6-inch speaker and can connect to other speakers using Bluetooth or a 3.5 mm audio cable. It also has a 3.5 mm audio output for connecting to external speakers or headphones. The Echo Dot (3rd generation) is a great choice for someone who is looking for a simple and affordable smart speaker.
  2. Echo Dot (4th generation) The Echo Dot (4th generation) is the latest model in the Echo Dot range. It has a completely redesigned spherical design and comes in three colors: Glacier White, Charcoal, and Twilight Blue. It has a 1.6-inch speaker and can connect to other speakers using Bluetooth or a 3.5 mm audio cable. It also has a 3.5 mm audio output for connecting to external speakers or headphones. The Echo Dot (4th generation) has improved sound quality over the previous model and is a great choice for someone who wants a more stylish and modern-looking smart speaker.
  3. Echo Dot with Clock (3rd generation) The Echo Dot with Clock (3rd generation) is essentially the same as the Echo Dot (3rd generation), but with the addition of a built-in LED clock display. This makes it a great choice for someone who wants a smart speaker that can also double as a bedside clock. The Echo Dot with Clock (3rd generation) is available in the same three colors as the standard Echo Dot (3rd generation).
  4. Echo Dot Kids Edition (4th generation) The Echo Dot Kids Edition (4th generation) is essentially the same as the Echo Dot (4th generation), but with some added features designed specifically for kids. It comes with a one-year subscription to Amazon Kids+, which gives kids access to thousands of books, games, and educational content. It also has parental controls that allow parents to limit screen time and set content filters. The Echo Dot Kids Edition (4th generation) comes in two colors: Panda and Tiger.

The Amazon Echo Dot range offers a variety of models to suit different needs and preferences. The Echo Dot (3rd generation) is a great choice for someone who is looking for a simple and affordable smart speaker, while the Echo Dot (4th generation) is a great choice for someone who wants a more stylish and modern-looking smart speaker with improved sound quality. The Echo Dot with Clock (3rd generation) is a great choice for someone who wants a smart speaker that can also double as a bedside clock, and the Echo Dot Kids Edition (4th generation) is a great choice for parents who want a smart speaker that is designed specifically for kids.

/0 Comments/by

How To Choose Home Security Cameras

,

How To Choose Home Security Cameras for Safety:

Security cameras can be an effective way to protect your home, property, and loved ones. However, to make the most of this technology, you need to choose and use security cameras wisely. Here are some tips to help you stay safe and secure.

  • Choose your brand carefully:

There are many outdoor security cameras available at low prices, but not all of them are reliable and secure. To avoid privacy risks, choose a reputable brand like Ring, Wyze, or Eufy. Although even the best brands can be breached, they are more likely to take action and improve their security measures when needed. Lesser-known brands may disappear or change names when they are exposed, leaving their customers vulnerable.

  • Consider security features:

A strong password is essential, but biometric support is even better. Look for security cameras with mobile apps that support fingerprint or face unlock. Two-factor authentication (2FA) is another important security feature that adds an extra layer of protection. It requires a code from an SMS, email, or authenticator app, in addition to your username and password. While 2FA is becoming more common, it’s important to activate it manually if your camera offers this feature.

  • Keep your cameras and devices updated:

To ensure your security cameras and other internet-connected devices are protected against the latest threats, it’s crucial to check for software updates regularly. Your chosen security camera should have an automatic update option, but it’s a good idea to check for updates manually, too. Don’t forget to update your router and other devices as well, as they can also be vulnerable to attacks.

By following these tips, you can choose and use security cameras safely and effectively. Remember to prioritize your privacy and security when selecting a brand, look for cameras with advanced security features, and keep your devices updated to stay ahead of potential threats.

/0 Comments/by

Philips Hue Play Gradient Lightstrip

,

We’re excited to introduce the Philips Hue Play Gradient Lightstrip for PC, which we highly recommend with a rating of 8/10 from the Wired.

This light strip offers reactive, bright, and colorful lighting that perfectly matches the action on your screen. Its flexible diffused light strip is easy to set up and can be effortlessly attached to the back of your monitor using adhesive brackets. Via the Hue Sync app on your desktop, the lights match up to the onscreen action, making games and movies more immersive. With four intensity settings, you can adjust the lighting to your preferences.

Not only does the light strip work great for gaming and movies, but it also serves as bias lighting to reduce eye strain in dark rooms. Additionally, it comes with a music mode that enhances your listening experience. The Philips Hue Play Gradient Lightstrip for PC is available in two sizes that cater to 24- to 27-inch or 32- to 34-inch monitors. The smaller size produces up to 800 lumens, while the larger size offers up to 1,000 lumens.

It’s worth noting that this light strip requires a Hue Bridge at $50 and is a bit pricey, especially if you haven’t invested in Hue lights for your home yet. However, it seamlessly integrates with Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, IFTTT, Microsoft Cortana, Samsung SmartThings, and Razer Chroma.

We highly recommend the Philips Hue Play Gradient Lightstrip for PC to enhance your gaming and movie-watching experience with reactive, bright, and colorful lighting. It’s easy to set up, works with multiple smart home systems, and offers customizable intensity settings to suit your preferences.

/0 Comments/by

Ring Camera Hacked

,
Ring Camera Hacked

The news of the Ring Camera Hacked broke and we are deeply concerned about the recent breach of security at Ring, a company owned by Amazon. When the news broke that Ring was hacked with ransomware,  it was alarming and underscored the need for companies to take cybersecurity seriously.

At the core of the issue is the fact that the hackers were able to gain access to Ring’s internal systems, including its customer support network. This access allowed them to obtain customer email addresses, home addresses, and other sensitive information, which they then used to demand a ransom from Ring.

This kind of data breach is not only a threat to the privacy and security of Ring’s customers but also undermines trust in the entire smart home industry. Consumers expect that the companies they do business with will protect their personal information from unauthorized access, and when companies fail to do so, it can have serious consequences for their reputation and bottom line.

While it is unclear how the hackers gained access to Ring’s systems, it is clear that the company needs to take immediate steps to improve its cybersecurity measures. Ring Camera could increase their security system by implementing a two-factor authentication. This could prevent unauthorized access to its customer support network, and ensure that its employees are trained to recognize and respond to potential threats.

To ensure that hackers do not exploit vulnerabilities in their systems, companies that collect and store sensitive customer information conduct regular security audits. These audits should cover not only technical measures but also policies and procedures governing the collection, storage, and use of customer data.

The recent security breach at Ring is a wake-up call for companies in the smart home industry to take cybersecurity seriously. Consumers trust us with their personal information, and we must do everything in our power to protect it. By implementing robust security measures and regularly auditing our systems, we can ensure that our customers’ data is safe and secure, and maintain their trust in our industry.

/0 Comments/by

Best Airbnb Smart Lock

,

The Igloohome Smart Deadbolt 2S is a fantastic smart lock that is perfect for any smart home. This product offers an exceptional blend of security, convenience, and style. Its sleek design, ease of use, and compatibility with various smart home ecosystems make it stand out from other smart locks on the market.

One of the most impressive features of this smart lock is its ability to work with multiple access methods, including PIN codes, physical keys, and Bluetooth keys. This means that you can easily control access to your home and grant temporary access to guests without the need for physical keys or complicated setup processes.

Why Choose This Lock For Airbnb?

The Igloohome Smart Deadbolt 2S is an excellent choice for Airbnb hosts as it offers several features that make managing guest access incredibly efficient. Firstly, this lock allows Airbnb hosts to grant access to their properties remotely, using the Igloohome mobile app. This means that hosts can easily give guests access to the property, even if they are not physically present. Another great feature of the Igloohome Smart Deadbolt 2S is the ability to generate one-time PIN codes. This feature allows hosts to set a specific time limit for the guest’s access to the property, ensuring that they cannot enter the property outside of their allotted time. Once the guest’s stay is over, the PIN code will automatically expire, which eliminates the need for hosts to change locks or collect keys after each guest’s stay.

Furthermore, this smart lock provides access logs that allow hosts to monitor who has entered the property and at what time. These logs provide a great level of security, as hosts can quickly identify any unauthorized access to the property. Overall making this lock an excellent choice for Airbnb hosts as it offers a high level of convenience and security. Its ability to grant remote access, generate one-time PIN codes, and provide access logs make managing guest access incredibly efficient. Additionally, the auto-relock feature ensures that the property is always securely locked, providing peace of mind to hosts and their guests.

In terms of installation, the Igloohome Smart Deadbolt 2S is effortless to set up, and the process can be completed in just a few minutes. Furthermore, the lock’s battery life is exceptional, with a single set of batteries lasting for up to a year. The Igloohome Smart Deadbolt 2S has an auto-relock feature, which means that the door will automatically lock after the guest enters the property. This feature provides an additional level of security, as hosts do not have to worry about guests forgetting to lock the door after they leave.

The Igloohome Smart Deadbolt 2S is the best overall smart lock for your smart home, providing a high level of security and convenience. Its versatility, ease of use, and compatibility with multiple access methods make it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance the security and convenience of their home.

/0 Comments/by

Arlo Security Camera Review

,

The results are in and our Arlo Security Camera Review is here. Our top priority is ensuring the safety and security of our customers. That’s why we recommend the Arlo Pro 4 outdoor security camera as the best option for monitoring your property. The camera delivers crystal clear footage day or night, and with speedy load times for the live feed, you can stay on top of any activity in real-time.

The Arlo Pro 4 connects directly to Wi-Fi and has a wide 160-degree field of view, providing an excellent range of coverage. It also records at up to 2K resolution with HDR, ensuring that your feed won’t look blown out even in the presence of a light source. With a choice of color night vision or spotlight, you can customize your settings based on your specific needs. Additionally, two-way audio is clear and relatively lag-free, and the built-in siren adds an extra layer of security.

Over months and reviews of the wired testing, the Arlo Pro 4 has proven to be a consistent and reliable performer, offering a seamless and user-friendly experience. The camera filters motion alerts by people, animals, vehicles, and packages, making it easy to stay informed of any important activity. The notification system is swift and accurate, offering animated previews and screenshots with highlighted subjects that are easy to read even on a smartwatch screen.

While the Arlo Pro 4 claims up to six months of battery life, this depends entirely on usage. Nevertheless, with an easy-to-use app and the option to upgrade to an Arlo Secure plan ($5 per month for a single camera), you can make the most of its advanced features and 30 days of cloud video history. At our company, we prioritize safety above all else, and the Arlo Pro 4 is our top recommendation for anyone looking to enhance their home security.

/0 Comments/by

Cordless Hoover Vacuum

,

We understand the importance of a good vacuum that can handle day-to-day messes and deep cleans on a variety of surfaces. That’s why we put the Cordless Hoover Vacuum, OnePwr cordless vacuum to the test for several months, rotating it through different cleaning scenarios to see how it performed.

The Wired tested this vacuum in relation to others and we agree the Hoover is up top. Comparing it to other cordless vacuums, testing how it picked up Cheerios, cat litter, and dust and dirt already matted up from inside the vacuum bins. They also tested its ability to clean up after heavy foot traffic and antique furniture in a retail store. We even charged it, had our partners use it, and evaluated its ability to stand upright with no assistance.

For us, the ability to stand upright with no assistance is a crucial factor in a good vacuum. But the Hoover OnePwr also proved to be a capable cleaner, picking up hair, dirt, cereal, and litter with just one pass on its medium setting. Despite feeling lightweight and plasticky, we were pleasantly surprised by its cleaning power.

The battery life of the Hoover OnePwr isn’t the best among the vacuums we tested, getting only 35 minutes on the low suction setting. However, you can easily buy a spare battery to swap it out or opt for a larger-capacity battery if you need longer cleaning time. It doesn’t come with any attachments, but it strikes a nice balance with its price and has a large 1-liter dust bin.

We believe the Hoover OnePwr cordless vacuum is a solid choice for those seeking a capable and reasonably priced vacuum that can handle a variety of cleaning tasks. Its lightweight design and large dust bin make it easy to use, while its powerful suction ensures a thorough clean every time.

/0 Comments/by

Sonos Smart Speaker

,

We have been keeping a close eye on the latest developments in the smart speaker market with help from the Wire, and we are pleased to report that the new Sonos Era 100, Sonos Smart speaker is a standout product. With its expanded stereo capabilities and improved bass, this new speaker takes the already impressive Sonos One to new heights.

One of the most impressive features of the Era 100 is its built-in room tuning, which allows the speaker to automatically EQ itself for optimal placement in your space. This results in a tighter bass response and even more shimmering highs, making for an immersive listening experience.

The Era 100 also boasts physical improvements, such as a large volume slider on top and an easy-to-use mic mute switch. And with support for Alexa and Apple AirPlay 2, it seamlessly integrates with any smart home ecosystem.

While the Era 100 doesn’t support Google Assistant, its multiroom audio support and compatibility with nearly every streaming app make it a standout product. And with the new Bluetooth connectivity, it’s even possible to connect a turntable wirelessly (although purists may prefer to use the USB-C port on the back).

Of course, as with any computer-powered speaker, there are limitations to how long it will receive software updates. But Sonos has a track record of creating speakers that last longer than the competition, and we expect the Era Era to be no exception. All in all, the Sonos Era 100 is a fantastic addition to any smart home setup, and we highly recommend it.

/0 Comments/by

best home automation controller

,

The best home automation controller has become increasingly popular in recent years, offering homeowners an easy and convenient way to control various smart devices in their homes. With so many options available, it can be challenging to decide which controller is the best fit for your needs. In this article, we will compare some of the top home automation controllers, including Apple Siri, Amazon Alexa, Google Home, Samsung SmartThings, and Microsoft Cortana.

Apple Siri

Apple’s Siri is a voice-activated assistant that is available on various Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and Macs. Siri can be used to control various smart devices in your home, including smart lights, thermostats, and smart locks. One of the biggest advantages of Siri is its integration with Apple’s HomeKit platform, which offers a wide range of compatible smart devices. However, Siri is limited in terms of third-party app integration and lacks some of the advanced features of other controllers.

Amazon Alexa

Amazon’s Alexa is one of the most popular home automation controllers, offering users a wide range of features and integrations. With Alexa, users can control various smart devices, including smart lights, thermostats, and security systems, using their voice or the Alexa app. Alexa also offers a wide range of third-party integrations, allowing users to control a vast array of devices from different manufacturers. However, Alexa can sometimes struggle with understanding certain accents or commands, and some users may have privacy concerns regarding the device’s always-on listening feature.

Google Home

Google Home is another popular home automation controller that offers users a range of features and integrations. Like Alexa, users can control various smart devices using their voice or the Google Home app. Google Home also offers a range of advanced features, including personalized routines, voice match, and multi-room audio. Additionally, Google Home offers superior natural language processing capabilities, making it easier for users to communicate with the device. However, like Alexa, Google Home’s always-on listening feature may raise privacy concerns for some users.

Samsung SmartThings

Samsung SmartThings is a versatile home automation controller that offers users a range of features and integrations. SmartThings can control various smart devices using its app or voice commands through Alexa or Google Home. One of the most significant advantages of SmartThings is its compatibility with a vast array of smart devices from different manufacturers, making it easy to integrate various devices into a single platform. However, the SmartThings app can sometimes be challenging to navigate, and users may find that some devices do not work correctly with the platform.

Microsoft Cortana

Microsoft’s Cortana is another home automation controller that is available on various devices, including Windows PCs and smartphones. Like Siri and Alexa, Cortana can be used to control various smart devices using voice commands. One of the most significant advantages of Cortana is its deep integration with Microsoft’s ecosystem, including Windows 10 and Microsoft Office. However, Cortana’s voice recognition capabilities are not as advanced as Alexa or Google Home, and the device’s third-party integrations are limited compared to other controllers.

The best home controller:

When it comes to home automation controllers, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Each controller has its strengths and weaknesses, and the best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. For those who prioritize privacy, Apple Siri or Samsung SmartThings may be the best option, while those who want a wide range of integrations may prefer Alexa or Google Home. Ultimately, the key is to choose a controller that offers the features and integrations that you need to make your home automation experience as seamless and convenient as possible.

/0 Comments/by