It can be overwhelming to figure out how far to push your home automation.
Do you want to ask Siri to turn on your oven?
Do you need a push notification when your laundry is dry?
Do you want to see who is at your front door before you answer?
It all depends on your needshow you interact with your virtual assistant, apps, and devices.
The best way to review what smart home technology you require is to approach it by unit pop in.
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Smart Speakers and Assistants
Digital assistants are the gateway to smart home automation.
To have a rig work on voice command, you’ll need one of some form.
If youre starting your smart home journey, begin here.
Image Credit:GE Lighting
The main options are Alexa by Amazon, Google Assistant, and Apples Siri.
There are many form factors available, especially for Amazon Echo devices.
Whichever brand you choose will dictate the devices you purchase to set up your smart home automation.
The Amazon Smart Thermostat is currently one of the most affordable thermostats that work with Alexa. It’s not as advanced as some Nest and Ecobee models, but it makes up for that with an aggressive price and Alexa Hunches that automatically set up your desired temperature. You can also adjust the temperatures from anywhere using the Alexa app.
The good news is you really cant go wrong.
It’s a luxury of the digital age that never gets old.
In addition to convenience, remote lighting control has many other perks as well.
Image Credit:Blink Smart Security
Out for the evening and want your entry lights on when you get home?
Ask your assistant to turn them on from your phone or smartwatch.
Smart plugs are a great way to control lights or other devices operating on plugs throughout your home.
They can be programmed to go on and off via an app or your virtual assistant.
you’re free to give them instant commands, or have them operate on a timer or schedule.
Smart plugs, switches, and light bulbs are very affordable and easy to install.
Integration is becoming increasingly seamless as well, especially withthe rollout of the Matter standard.
Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats are a mainstay of the smart home.
These products are for you.
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The Amazon Smart Thermostat is currently one of the most affordable thermostats that work with Alexa.
you’re free to also adjust the temperatures from anywhere using the Alexa app.
Smart thermostats come in all sorts of price points with features to match.
Robot Vacuums
Who doesnt want their house vacuumed every day with little effort?
Robot vacuums have made the move from a fringe luxury to the mainstream.
The original iRobot Roombas now have tough competition from brands like Eufy and Shark.
Alexa integration and self-emptying options have made it easy for users to set and forget them.
It’s the perfect time to invest in a robot vacuum.
They are easy to set up, maintain, use, and they provide a lot of value.
The ability to see and interact with visitors at your door (wherever you may be) is game-changing.
The same goes for security camera footage.
There are many options available, from Amazons Ring or Blink systems, to Googles Nest range.
It’s hard to go wrong.
Smart Home Technology to Avoid
It’s not all golden when it comes to smart home technology.
Smart TVs
Virtually all new TVs sold today come equipped with internet connectivity and smart functionality.
However, many users describe frustrating experiences in set up and use.
Unfortunately, many of the apps associated with these scales are buggy.
However, users still report setup headaches.
Smart Mattresses
Smart mattresses take a large piece of furniture and add a layer of technology.
The main downside of smart mattresses is the cost.
A hefty cost for the average user.
If youre looking to monitor ongoing sleep issues, you may find them worth the cost.
Otherwise, it’s probably best to wait for the price to drop before you adopt this technology.
The typical lifespan of a large appliance is north of 10 years.
CES 2023 saw new toilet bowl sensors announced, with the purpose of analyzing urine for potential health concerns.
If you consider yourself a toilet superuser, there are plenty ofgreat smart toilets to buy.
But, at the end of the day, it’s up to you.
