Digital Phablet

Tag: convenience

  • Lutron Makes Controlling Your Smart Home Easier Without Phone

    Lutron Makes Controlling Your Smart Home Easier Without Phone

    If you’re tired of managing multiple remotes and apps just to turn down the lights or change a song, I have good news. Lutron has added a new shortcut to its Caseta smart home lineup, allowing you to control your lights, shades, and Sonos playback using only your voice.

    For those unfamiliar, Caseta is Lutron’s DIY smart lighting system. It operates through a small hub that communicates with switches, dimmers, and plugs via radio signals instead of Wi-Fi, making it simple to manage the entire setup. Although the company has collaborated with Sonos for a while, voice control was the missing piece until now. That’s now been addressed.

    What does this update actually change?

    Just say “Hey Sonos,” and your Caseta lights, shades, and music will respond—no need to open an app or reach for a switch.

    This fills a notable gap: these two systems have been linked for years, but voice control wasn’t part of the mix until recently. In addition to basic commands, the partnership enables you to create combined presets that adjust lighting, window shades, and music all at once.

    You can even set your system to respond automatically when you leave or arrive, using the app. To do this, connect your devices through the Lutron app, open the Integrations menu, and activate “Sonos Voice Control.”

    Is there a catch?

    The main limitation is that voice commands only work through Sonos speakers equipped with a built-in microphone. Older models without microphones won’t support voice commands. That said, every device in the Caseta line—switches, dimmers, and plugs—supports voice control.

    For those starting from scratch, Lutron’s starter kits are budget-friendly. The basic Smart Switch Kit is priced at $94.95, while the Smart Dimmer and Lamp Dimming Plug kits each cost $99.95. The paddle-style Diva Dimmer Kit is priced at $119.95. All include the Smart Hub necessary for voice control functionality.

  • Apple’s Smart Home Display Promises Great Convenience

    Apple’s Smart Home Display Promises Great Convenience

    In recent weeks, there has been a surge of speculation regarding Apple’s plans to create a smart display intended for home management. Reports suggest that the tech giant is working on two distinct models, one of which could incorporate a robotic arm and draw inspiration from the design of a classic Mac.

    Recently, Bloomberg divulged intriguing information about the entry-level model’s appearance and functionality. This device is expected to feature a 6-inch display with a somewhat square shape, complemented by various sensors, including a horizontally mounted FaceTime camera.

    The incorporated sensors will be capable of detecting an individual’s presence and proximity, adapting the display’s content accordingly. Additionally, the standalone smart display will be able to gauge the number of people in its vicinity, according to the report.

    This device will operate on a novel OS dubbed homeOS. In addition to standard functions like video calling and smart home control, it will support essential Apple apps such as Notes, Safari, and Calendar. Furthermore, the design team at Apple is reportedly considering a user interface that resembles iOS widgets.

    An Amazon Echo Show 8 sits on a wooden desk.
    Apple’s smart display will serve as more than just a home control hub. Nick Mokey / Digital Trends

    Music will also be a central feature of this new device, with the capability to control audio throughout the home using HomePod speakers, as per the details shared by Bloomberg. The touch interface will borrow elements from the Standby Mode of the iPhone and watchOS.

    Moreover, this forthcoming device will emphasize intercom functionalities and blend in video communications similar to those available on smart home cameras. Users in various parts of the house will have the ability to conduct FaceTime calls for communication.

    Homeowners will also have the option to check security footage from their connected cameras. Apple’s HomeKit will be the driving force behind its market strategy, and homeOS will introduce a revamped control center.

    Despite its tablet-like appearance, Apple reportedly envisions it as a wall-mounted display. Currently under development with the codename J490, this device could make its debut in the first half of 2025.

    Facebook Portal smart display.
    Apple’s new device is set to integrate FaceTime into an intercom system. John Velasco / Digital Trends

    Interestingly, this device is expected to significantly enhance Siri’s functionality, focusing on voice-driven interactions. The integration of Apple Intelligence will be a crucial aspect, providing an improved Siri experience alongside deeper application integration.

    The smart display will also support Handoff, allowing users to seamlessly transfer tasks to different screens. Alongside native Apple applications like Safari, Mail, and FaceTime, several third-party apps will also offer similar support.

    Apple is developing various attachments and accessories for this device, such as wall mounts and speaker bases. In terms of pricing, the company is reportedly aiming to align it with products like Google’s Nest Hub Max and Amazon Echo Hub, which both retail within the $250 range.