Digital Phablet

Tag: home automation

  • Top Smart Home Upgrades To Do Before Your Summer Break

    Top Smart Home Upgrades To Do Before Your Summer Break

    Summer often brings a refreshing change to routines for homeowners across the United States. Family vacations, weekend retreats, and longer outdoor days mean more time away and fewer chances to keep an eye on your property. While it’s a season for relaxation and enjoying the warm weather, daily responsibilities continue. Packages still arrive, visitors might drop by unexpectedly, and trusted family members, housekeepers, or pet-sitters may need access while you’re away.

    Modern smart home technology simplifies these situations. Today’s connected devices do much more than record footage or send motion alerts. They enable homeowners to monitor outdoor spaces around the clock, stay updated on key activities, communicate remotely with visitors, and control access without being physically present. Instead of constantly calling or wondering if everything is in order, setting up the right system offers increased visibility, convenience, and peace of mind during the season.

    With a wide array of options available, choosing the best setup depends on individual needs. Here are four EZVIZ devices designed to help homeowners stay connected to their property without adding extra tasks to their holiday plans.

    ### Eliminate Outdoor Blind Spots with the HB8 Lite Series

    Leaving home for a few days shouldn’t mean losing sight of what’s happening outside. Whether you’re checking on a driveway, garden, or front door, the EZVIZ HB8 Lite Series makes it easier to stay informed about activity on your property while away.

    It features a motorized 340° horizontal pan and 80° vertical tilt, helping to eliminate blind spots outside and capturing every detail in crisp 2K+ resolution. Powered by Wi-Fi 6 and efficient H.265 video compression, it offers smooth operation while reducing storage needs. Instead of activating only during motion detection, the Always-On Video Mode 2.0 (AOV) provides continuous visual monitoring. Its AI-powered person and vehicle detection, Smart Tracking, and smart alerts help you focus on important activity. A built-in 5,200mAh rechargeable battery can last up to 108 days under normal use or up to 15 days with continuous time-lapse recording. An optional solar panel and local microSD storage (up to 512GB) help minimize ongoing maintenance.

    For different connectivity needs, the series includes both the HB8 Lite and HB8 Lite 4G. While both share core features, the HB8 Lite 4G adds Wi-Fi and cellular (4G) connectivity, making it especially suitable for vacation homes, rural properties, or remote locations where Wi-Fi is limited. This flexibility ensures reliable monitoring wherever broadband isn’t guaranteed.

    ### Smarter Security for Large Properties with the HB90x Dual 4G Kit

    Designed for expansive properties, the EZVIZ HB90x Dual 4G Kit features a dual-camera system with a solar panel, offering robust protection where broadband access isn’t always available. Perfect for remote farms, cabins, or sprawling lots, this kit allows you to track incoming vehicles along long driveways and monitor surrounding woodlands effortlessly.

    The dual-camera setup provides wide-area coverage combined with close-up tracking. It automatically switches between Wi-Fi and 4G networks to maintain a reliable connection, even in remote locations. Enhanced nighttime performance with ColorFULL Night Vision provides vivid full-color images after dark without harsh floodlights. With smart tracking and expansive coverage, this system is ideal for trustworthy security over large outdoor spaces regardless of local internet availability.

    ### View Visitors and Control Access with EZVIZ HP7 Pro Doorphone

    Managing entry to a gated property can be tricky when no one is home to open the gate. The EZVIZ HP7 Pro offers homeowners a convenient way to see visitors, communicate remotely, and grant access without needing to be physically present. It simplifies everyday entry management, eliminating the need to be at the gate whenever someone arrives. The system supports secure local Palm Vein recognition, QR code access for visitors, RFID tags for family members, and PIN codes, allowing authorized users to unlock doors without physical keys.

    Equipped with a 4K ultra-HD camera, it captures clear footage of visitors. Its ColorFULL Night Vision maintains visibility after dark, while two-way communication allows homeowners to speak with visitors via the EZVIZ app. The system also allows remote unlocking from anywhere, making property access simple and controllable. An indoor display consolidates visitor alerts, access management, and connected EZVIZ devices, simplifying day-to-day monitoring.

    ### Monitor Your Front Door with EZVIZ EP8 Ultra Doorbell

    Imagine heading on a long-awaited vacation and receiving a notification about someone at your door. The EZVIZ EP8 Ultra helps you stay connected to every interaction at your doorstep, enabling remote viewing, response, and updates from anywhere.

    Designed to address blind spots common with traditional video doorbells, the EP8 Ultra combines a 3K+ front-facing camera with a secondary 1080p lens for a comprehensive view. It begins recording activity even before the doorbell is pressed and features on-device AI for human and package detection, face recognition, and Color Night Vision for clear visuals in low light.

    The doorbell supports two-way video and audio, allowing homeowners to speak with visitors remotely. Its AI-powered interactive display and quick auto-replies add a personal touch even when no one is home. Local AI processing enhances privacy, while Wi-Fi 6 connectivity, built-in storage, and detachable batteries create an easy, reassuring experience for smart entry management.

    Smart home technology should empower homeowners to enjoy their vacations and outdoor adventures without constantly worrying about what’s happening back home. With the right setup — including outdoor cameras, smart entry solutions, and video doorbells working together — it’s easier to monitor, control, and safeguard your property, so you can focus on relaxing and making the most of your time away.

  • Amazon Echo Hub Now Your Smart Home Control Center

    Amazon Echo Hub Now Your Smart Home Control Center

    Smart homes aim to simplify daily living, but they often result in juggling multiple apps just to adjust lighting, monitor visitors, or troubleshoot temperature issues.

    Amazon’s Echo Hub was designed to address these frustrations by serving as a dedicated touchscreen hub for your connected devices—integrating lighting, security cameras, locks, thermostats, alarms, and routines into a single interface. Recently, Amazon introduced a major update to the device, featuring a redesigned interface that emulates the ultimate smart home dashboard many users have envisioned. This free software upgrade, available to current Echo Hub owners, enhances usability without altering the hardware, potentially transforming its day-to-day functionality.

    The most noticeable change lies in the new, customizable interface. Recognizing that each smart home is unique, the update allows users to tailor their dashboard—grouping devices by room or purpose. Whether you want quick access to cameras and locks or prefer to control lighting, music, and temperature, the layout can now be personalized. Additionally, device controls have become more granular, enabling precise adjustments for brightness, color, and other settings directly from the display.

    The Echo Hub is evolving into a control panel that might rival your smartphone. It now supports live camera feeds, including viewing multiple streams simultaneously—an especially useful feature for households with multiple security cameras. Instead of switching between individual apps, you can monitor everything from one central display.

    The device also emphasizes automation, allowing users to arm security systems, activate routines, toggle between home and away modes, set lighting scenes, and manage connected devices with a single tap. For those heavily invested in Alexa automation, the Hub increasingly acts as a home command center rather than just a smart display. It also simplifies audio management, letting users control multiroom speaker groups effortlessly, streamlining music throughout the house.

    To further its appeal, the Echo Hub incorporates adaptive content—changing what appears on the 8-inch screen based on whether someone is nearby. This feature ensures the device fits naturally into your home environment, displaying photos or smart controls as needed. Its compatibility remains broad, supporting Zigbee, Thread, Bluetooth, Matter, Sidewalk, and Wi-Fi devices—all accessible without additional hubs or clutter.

    Priced at $179.99, the Echo Hub isn’t an impulse buy, but Amazon’s recent enhancements make it a compelling option for smart home enthusiasts seeking a centralized, user-friendly control station. Ultimately, it embodies the ideal of a smart home—saving you time and effort so you can focus on living comfortably.

  • YEEDI S20 Infinity Ultra Redefines What Robot Vacuums Can Clean

    YEEDI S20 Infinity Ultra Redefines What Robot Vacuums Can Clean

    The YEEDI S20 Infinity Ultra enters a category that has already refined navigation, mapping, and basic automation to the point where daily dust cleaning is predictable and dependable. Today’s expectations for a robot vacuum go beyond just moving efficiently through a home; they include handling the types of messes that occur in everyday life. Floors often collect dried spills, sticky residues, and layered grime—problems that simple suction or light mopping alone can’t fully resolve. This has revealed a persistent limitation across the category, with users often needing to step in before or after cleaning cycles by manually scrubbing problem areas or running multiple passes, which undermines the goal of automation.

    Designed to bridge this gap, the YEEDI S20 Infinity Ultra tackles cleaning by focusing on stain treatment and surface restoration rather than just increasing suction power or coverage. Its emphasis on addressing real-world cleaning challenges has earned it the Digital Spotlight Award, highlighting its role in a category increasingly moving towards smarter, outcome-focused automation.

    The S20 Infinity Ultra introduces pre-treatment into its automated cleaning routine. Its FocusJet Stain Pre-Dissolving Technology sprays a cleaning solution directly onto stains before the mop reaches the surface, softening and breaking down residues in advance instead of dragging them across the floor. This spray-before-clean feature is uncommon outside premium models, making its inclusion here a significant advancement for everyday home use. With this system, dried substances like coffee, sauces, and sticky spills can be removed more efficiently in a single pass, reducing the need for multiple cycles or manual scrubbing.

    The OZMO Roller 3.0 enhances this process by expanding cleaning coverage and maintaining consistent pressure while continuously washing during operation. Dirt lifted from one area isn’t redistributed elsewhere, helping sustain cleaning performance throughout the cycle rather than diminishing over time.

    Powerful suction is delivered through BLAST Airflow, while ZeroTangle 4.0 minimizes hair entanglement and the maintenance that typically accompanies it. AIVI 3D 4.0 works in tandem with TrueEdge 3.0 to sharpen obstacle detection and improve edge cleaning, allowing the robot to navigate complex layouts while ensuring thorough cleaning along walls and in corners.

    PowerBoost Charging+ enables the system to manage larger homes by optimizing charging cycles and minimizing downtime between cleaning sessions, maintaining strong performance over extended use.

    Tailored for everyday routines, the system operates at a quieter noise level compared to many in its segment, with vacuum and combined vacuum-and-mop modes measured at around 61.1 dBA and 64.4 dBA respectively—making it practical for use throughout the day without disruption. Compatibility with smart assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, Apple Home, and Matter allows seamless integration into existing smart home ecosystems. Its self-maintenance design also reduces the ongoing effort required to keep the device functioning efficiently.

    Moving beyond simple automation, the YEEDI S20 Infinity Ultra emphasizes real cleaning results, working through messes in a single continuous process that minimizes manual effort before or after a cycle. The growing trend shows robotic cleaners evolving from basic movement systems to smarter, problem-solving devices capable of handling everyday clutter effectively. Features like spray-before-clean pre-treatment, once only found in high-end models, are becoming more accessible, making advanced cleaning capabilities practical and achievable for more users. With this model, YEEDI positions itself as a forward-looking solution—designed to meet the cleaning demands of real homes, not just ideal conditions.

    Launching with a limited-time promotional price of $899.99 from May 20 to June 1, the YEEDI S20 Infinity Ultra offers a savings from its regular retail price of $999.99. Early purchasers will also receive two bottles of cleaning solution and two side brushes at no extra cost—enhancements that make this an attractive upgrade for those seeking a more effective and intelligent home cleaning system.

  • Smart Home Was Open but Turned Into a Toll Booth

    Smart Home Was Open but Turned Into a Toll Booth

    I was raised with the belief that purchasing a product meant acquiring the actual item. A laptop came equipped with specific features. A car came with its hardware. Printers were still a hassle, but at least they posed a one-time challenge.

    I began to notice a change when my subscriptions shifted from primarily media services to attachments on physical devices. It was one thing to pay monthly for movies, music, or cloud storage, but it was another to see that same approach extend into gadgets, vehicles, fitness equipment, and smart home devices that already carried a price tag.

    Then I heard about stories like the smart bed that lost functionalities during an AWS outage. That moment made the entire model feel less modern and more bizarre. Increasingly, products now come with an asterisk: pay once for the hardware, then shell out again for features, remote access, cloud backups, AI functionalities, or premium controls that supposedly complete the experience.

    Once the screen becomes central to almost everything, it ceases to be a neutral surface. Reports from Parks Associates reveal that over 61% of U.S. internet households primarily use their smart TV for streaming. Roku announced in early 2025 that it served over 90 million streaming households, nearly half of all broadband homes in the U.S., while Google claimed that Google TV and Android TV reached 270 million monthly active devices late last year.

    The battle isn’t just over the hardware sitting on the shelf; it’s over the software layer that determines what we see first, what gets recommended, and which services are integrated seamlessly. This is also where ongoing revenue streams are generated. Hardware might be sold outright once, but access, visibility, and premium features can generate continual income.

    In March, European broadcasters explicitly urged regulators to consider smart TV platforms and virtual assistants from firms like Google, Amazon, Apple, and Samsung as potential gatekeepers under strict EU tech regulations. Their concern wasn’t just about shiny gadgets but about access, discoverability, and ensuring consumers can freely move between services without being steered into a single company’s ecosystem.

    The screen sitting front and center stops being just a neutral device. It heavily influences what content is prioritized, how effortlessly it can be accessed, and what options quietly fade away. The dominance of this interface is shaping the entire smart home experience.

    The core promise remains familiar: less friction, less clutter, less effort. Say the word or tap the screen, and the system handles the rest. However, this convenience can morph into subtle coercion. The simplest choice is usually the one already aligned with the platform owner’s services, defaults, recommendations, or paid upgrades.

    The trick isn’t to lock every door; it’s often enough to make a single path feel effortless while making alternatives seem somewhat inconvenient. Basic options stay available, nudging users toward subscriptions, add-ons, or deeper integrations. Over time, users often stop actively choosing and instead drift toward the preferred options—what initially seemed neutral can start to feel anything but.

    Cable companies succeeded with a simple model: control the central box, offer convenience as a paid service, and subtly influence what viewers find, pay for, and stick with. Today’s smart homes are reviving a similar approach with sleeker hardware and better interfaces. The “box” can be a TV operating system, a voice assistant, or a home dashboard, with the middleman learning how to appear more friendly.

    While paying for software, cloud storage, or other essential services makes sense, I find it harder to accept that hardware I already own should constantly require permissions, upgrades, or recurring payments. The promise was a seamless experience, but increasingly it feels like just another way to charge twice.

    When major players push the same agenda, convenience can serve as blinders, distracting from the creeping subscription costs, loss of control, and ongoing data collection. Regulators might address these issues later, but in the meantime, I’m often left paying extra to unlock the full potential of hardware I already purchased.

  • Spring Cleaning Automation Guide: Effective Robot Vacuums

    Spring Cleaning Automation Guide: Effective Robot Vacuums

    Spring cleaning traditionally involves dedicating an entire Saturday to scrubbing baseboards and chasing dust bunnies under the couch. However, by 2026, the most efficient way to care for your floors is to hand over the job entirely to a robot.

    The robot vacuum industry has finally surpassed the days of bumping into walls and getting stuck on rugs. Today’s standard features an all-in-one base station—devices that vacuum, mop, empty their dustbins, clean their mop pads, and dry them with hot air to prevent odors.

    Below are the top self-sustaining robot vacuums available now that will fully automate your floor maintenance this spring.

    Quick Picks

    Entry-Level Model

    Dreame D10 Plus Gen 2

    Image here
    If you’re looking to cease worrying about vacuuming without breaking the bank, the Dreame D10 Plus Gen 2 is an ideal starting point. It features a sizable 4L dustbag in its auto-empty dock, letting you go up to 90 days without dealing with debris. Equipped with intelligent LiDAR navigation (Smart Pathfinder), it efficiently maps your home and prevents getting stuck. Its floating all-rubber brush excels at pulling pet hair from carpets without tangling.

    • Why choose it: Strong 6,000Pa suction combined with dependable automatic dust collection at an attractive price.
    • Best for: Homes primarily with carpets or those wanting a straightforward, hands-free cleaning experience with basic mopping.

    Heavy-Duty Cleaning Machine

    eufy Omni C20

    Image here
    When spring calls for heavy-duty mopping, the eufy Omni C20 delivers. Instead of just dragging a wet pad, it employs “Mop Master” technology—dual spinning mops at 180 RPM with 6N of downward force to tackle stubborn stains. Plus, its station automatically washes and air-dries the mop pads to prevent mildew buildup.

    • Why buy: Its compact 3.35-inch profile with 7,000Pa suction makes it perfect for reaching under low furniture like desks and beds.
    • Best for: Hard floors such as tile, wood, or laminate that need frequent, tough cleaning.

    Luxury at Its Best

    eufy Robot Vacuum E25

    Image here
    For top-tier automated cleaning, the eufy E25 raises the bar. Instead of conventional flat pads, it uses a “HydroJet” rolling mop that continuously rinses itself with fresh water from a dual reservoir while scrubbing. It delivers an industry-leading 20,000 Pa turbo suction and features dual “DuoSpiral” brushes that resist pet hair tangles. Its “CornerRover” arm extends to clean right up against baseboards for comprehensive coverage.

    • Why choose it: It ensures no spots are missed, with a combined station that empties dust, washes and dries the mop, dispenses detergent, and refills the water tank automatically.
    • Best for: Tech lovers demanding edge-to-edge cleaning, intensive scrubbing, and fully automatic operation.

    Summary

    If your main goal is to avoid emptying a dustbin every day, the Dreame D10 Plus Gen 2 offers excellent value and consistent performance. For homes with extensive hard flooring in need of serious scrubbing, the eufy Omni C20’s spinning mops and self-cleaning dock are game-changers. And for the ultimate in deep cleaning, suction power, and precision, the eufy E25 stands out as the pinnacle of luxury robotic vacuums.

  • Eufy’s Stair Climbing Robot Vacuum Might Win Me Over

    Eufy’s Stair Climbing Robot Vacuum Might Win Me Over

    IFA 2025 brought a whirlwind of new technology and gaming innovations. Smart home systems and artificial intelligence continue to steal the spotlight at trade shows—and that trend is especially clear when it comes to vacuum cleaners.

    While Samsung revealed a high-end robot vacuum that also functions as a home surveillance system, Eufy—Anker’s smart home brand—took a different, more practical approach by showcasing its latest robot vacuum.

    The new model, the Eufy S2 Pro Omni, currently can’t climb stairs on its own. But combine it with the MarsWalker, another robot released alongside, and suddenly you have a system that can navigate multiple floors of your house.

    The MarsWalker acts like a stairlift, letting the Eufy S2 Pro Omni or other compatible Eufy devices drive into it. The MarsWalker then extends legs and climbs the stairs, lifting the vacuum to clean the upper level of your home.

    Once finished, the vacuum can comfortably drive back into the MarsWalker, which will take it back downstairs. Both units can then dock in their own charging stations.

    Despite rapid tech advancements, I consider myself fairly knowledgeable about how far AI and smart home devices have come. Nonetheless, watching the Eufy S2 Pro Omni paired with the MarsWalker in action at IFA was a real eye-opener—perhaps indicating that smart home vacuums are finally becoming sophisticated enough to justify the investment.

    I’ve long been skeptical of robot vacuums. They seem great in theory, but living in a two-story house has made me hesitant—why invest in a device I’d still have to carry up and down the stairs? My recent close call was swayed mainly because my partner joked about needing two vacuums—one for upstairs, one for downstairs.

    This new setup might just change my mind. The MarsWalker appears to make the case for a robot vacuum’s practicality, especially if it performs as seamlessly as it did during the demonstration.

    The MarsWalker can quickly zip up stairs while carrying a vacuum, and then park itself for charging. It’s a smart, efficient solution for multi-story homes. The only unknown at this point is the price. If it turns out to be very costly, it might be more sensible to buy two budget-friendly robot vacuums instead.

    Eufy has said that the MarsWalker will be compatible with other models from their lineup, not just the S2 Pro Omni. So, if you’re already part of the Eufy ecosystem, this could be a valuable addition to your smart home setup.

    The product is expected to launch in Spring 2026, with detailed pricing to be announced closer to release.

    Overall, the MarsWalker feels revolutionary and seems tailor-made for someone like me. It addresses the main drawback I’ve seen with robot vacuums—stairs—and does so with impressive efficiency based on the first-hand demo.

    It can load a robot vacuum, carry it upstairs effortlessly, and then park itself for charging. However, without a clear price, it’s tough to say if it’s worth investing in. Perhaps getting two less expensive vacuums might make more sense, but we’ll have to see how this develops.

  • How The Echo Show 15 Changed Our Family Routine

    How The Echo Show 15 Changed Our Family Routine

    My wife and I are eagerly awaiting a new family member this October. With less than two months remaining, our schedule is packed with numerous appointments—at least one every two weeks—on top of our usual meetings, deadlines, and various tasks. With so much going on, it’s often difficult to keep track of when either of us has free time. The Echo Show 15 has become an essential part of our daily routine, and I honestly can’t picture managing everything without it.

    Initially, we saw the Amazon Echo Show 15 as a fun kitchen gadget—useful for playing music or displaying recipe videos. Over time, it has transformed into our digital assistant. I linked our calendars to the device so that both of us can easily see upcoming commitments. Now, we can quickly check if my wife has any appointments listed, or if I have meetings scheduled on any given day, which streamlines our planning considerably.

    I often joke that my wife is the true calendar keeper—anyone who tries to schedule with me is directed to her. She’s much more familiar with our availability than I am, thanks to the device’s organizing power.

    This smart display also helps us stay on top of daily chores. As anyone expecting a baby for the first time might know, the last few months before arrival can be chaotic—especially when there’s a lot of nursery preparation and little free time. The Echo Show makes it easier to avoid unnecessary trips to the store. When we run out of an ingredient, all I have to say is, “Alexa, add [item] to the shopping list,” which has significantly minimized unplanned store runs for small essentials.

    Homeownership also means spontaneous tasks, and the Echo Show 15 is a handy tool for managing them. Whether it’s repairing a cabinet, calling pest control for a spider invasion, scheduling grooming appointments for our cat, or arranging a pickup for an old piece of furniture, I keep my to-do list updated on the device. It acts as my digital reminder and helps me stay organized amid a busy schedule.

    The device’s versatility extends further. For example, I can tell Alexa to add someone to the to-do list, such as “call pest control” or “replace hallway light bulb,” simply by voice. These quick commands give me peace of mind that nothing important gets overlooked.

    The Echo Show 15 even offers individual profiles, allowing each family member to see only their own schedule and lists through facial recognition. While for now our household is just the two of us, I can see this feature being very useful once we have our child in the mix.

    When I want a break from work or chores, the device functions as a digital photo frame. I’ve uploaded family photos, wedding pictures, and of course, countless snapshots of our cats. It adds a cozy, homely touch to our kitchen, and every 30 seconds, a new image appears. It’s a great conversation starter when friends visit.

    Beyond time management and display functions, the Echo Show 15 offers numerous practical uses. I often set multiple timers during cooking, which helps me prepare meals more efficiently by finishing each component at the same time. It also guides me through recipes step-by-step without needing to handle a phone or tablet.

    In the mornings, it’s my go-to for checking the weather, catching up on news, or turning on the lights with a simple voice command. These small tasks might seem trivial, but they save me a surprising amount of time each day. Because I can issue commands without interruption, I stay focused on what I’m doing and avoid breaking my concentration. This hands-free convenience is a real time-saver, especially when life gets busy and scattered.

    After experiencing the device’s benefits firsthand, I’m considering upgrading to the larger Echo Show 21. It offers even more features with a built-in widget menu, and I believe it could further enhance our daily routine. Overall, this smart device has made a significant difference in managing our busy household, and I can’t imagine going back to life without it.

  • How to Set Up and Install Smart Lights for Your Home

    How to Set Up and Install Smart Lights for Your Home

    Traditional bulbs are becoming a thing of the past. Smart lights have taken over, offering a simple and budget-friendly way to dive into smart home technology. While the specifics can differ based on the brand, the fundamental steps for setting them up are quite similar across most types.

    Even if you’re not particularly tech-savvy, rest assured that installing these lights is straightforward. In fact, smart lights are often suggested as an ideal starter option for anyone new to smart home tech.

    How to Install Smart Lights

    The installation process for smart lights is generally consistent, whether you’re working with a smart bulb, light panels, or a light strip. The app’s on-screen prompts will assist you with any specific requirements based on the brand you choose.

    Step 1: Download the respective app and create an account.

    Note: It’s advisable to use a single account for all your smart devices. Many brands allow you to sign in with your Gmail account.

    Step 2: Open the app and look for the “Add device” or “Set up new light” option. The wording may vary by app. For this step, we’ll use the AuraScape Smart Hexagon Panels from AIDot as an example.

    Step 3: Select the device you’re setting up. Depending on your app, you might be able to scan a QR code, search for nearby devices, or select from a list. If your lights don’t appear, ensure they are in pairing mode.

    Step 4: Once you’ve selected your lights, move on to connecting them to your home Wi-Fi network.

    Step 5: (For smart light panels only) Indicate how many panels you have set up.

    Step 6: Specify where the controller fits into your lighting arrangement.

    Step 7: Finally, some devices may prompt you to connect with a smart home assistant like Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. However, this step can also be completed later.

    Smart lights offer incredible convenience, allowing you to say things like, “Alexa, turn off the bedroom lights,” all from the comfort of your bed. You can program schedules—like having your office lights turn on automatically at 7 AM—or set them to respond to motion.

    In addition, smart light panels and strips add to your room’s atmosphere. They can change colors, sync with your music, and much more. Over the past five years, smart lighting technology has advanced significantly!

  • Using the Robotic Arm of the Roborock Saros Z70

    Using the Robotic Arm of the Roborock Saros Z70

    While the Roborock Saros Z70 may not have completely met expectations, its robotic arm remains an impressive technological advancement. This feature is designed to identify small items in its vicinity, relocate them, and then continue with the cleaning routine. The Saros Z70’s robotic arm could very well be one of the standout innovations in the realm of robotic vacuums. But how does it function? And what are its limitations?

    Let’s take a closer look at how to effectively utilize the robotic arm of the Roborock Saros Z70 and explore ways to enhance its performance.

    Limitations of the Roborock Saros Z70’s Robotic Arm

    Jon Bitner / Digital Trends

    Before setting this robotic vacuum to pick up items scattered on your floors, it’s essential to understand its limitations. Additionally, Roborock frequently updates the software for the Saros Z70, suggesting that improvements may be on the way. Currently, here are the limitations that will affect the robotic arm’s functionality:

    • The robot struggles to identify items on carpets.
    • Crossing thresholds while holding an object is not possible.
    • The robotic arm operates at a slow speed.
    • It is only designed to handle items weighing 300 grams or less.
    • Some low-profile objects might escape detection.
    • Reflective surfaces can confuse the robot’s sensors.

    Some of these constraints are hardware-related and can’t be modified, while others may see enhancements through future software updates.

    Tips for Optimizing the Saros Z70’s Robotic Arm

    The Saros Z70 placing an object in a designated location.
    Roborock

    The arm on the Saros Z70 is inactive by default. You can activate it through the Robotic Arm Settings menu, which requires proximity to the robot and a few inputs. After activation, explore the menu for additional options that include:

    • Follow-Up Cleaning
    • Automatic Sorting
    • Manual Sorting
    • Remote Control for Pickup

    Activating Follow-Up Cleaning and Automatic Sorting is advisable, and feel free to experiment with other settings. The Remote Control feature allows you to guide the robot toward an item before initiating the pickup process.

    Much of the robotic arm’s operation is automated. When it detects an item suitable for pickup, it will do so autonomously and return it to a specified location. Nevertheless, there are strategies to enhance its effectiveness:

    • Avoid leaving items on carpets. The Saros Z70 has trouble recognizing objects on carpeting and primarily picks up items from hard surfaces.
    • Exercise patience. The robotic arm might grab and drop items multiple times. Its performance can take several attempts and a bit of time to succeed.
    • Position the storage box wisely. Ensure three sides of the box are open to the robot, avoiding corners. If placing it near a wall, ensure adequate space for access.
    • Focus on lighter items. Expect the best results with socks, small towels, paper, and slippers. Items heavier than 300 grams are beyond its handling capacity, so it’s wise to clear larger obstacles for optimal cleaning.
    • Try manual operation for tricky pickups. Using the Remote Control to Pick Up feature, you can manually maneuver the arm to tackle difficult items. It’s also a great way to showcase the robot to your guests.
  • Yale Unveils New Smart Lock Made for Google Home

    Yale Unveils New Smart Lock Made for Google Home

    Yale Smart Lock with Matter
    Yale

    Yale is set to phase out the well-loved Nest x Yale Lock, introducing a more advanced alternative during the summer — the Yale Smart Lock with Matter. This lock is crafted to integrate smoothly with Google Home and complements the Nest Doorbell, making it an exciting successor to the much-admired Nest x Yale Lock.

    The Yale Smart Lock with Matter is designed to work seamlessly with the entire Google Home ecosystem as well as the Nest Doorbell. Users will be able to manage their lock remotely, set up guest profiles, and receive notifications about lock activities. Additionally, it boasts an impressive battery life of up to 12 months and ensures connectivity with Google Home. A significant feature is its compatibility with Matter, allowing synchronization with other platforms such as Apple Home and Alexa.

    This latest release marks only the second addition to Yale’s product line to offer Matter support, following the 2024 Assure SL with Matter. This innovative feature enhances its longevity and compatibility with numerous devices beyond the Google Home platform.

    “With Google Home, our goal is to simplify the management of all smart home devices — from setup to automation,” said Anish Kattukaran, Chief Product Officer at Google Home & Nest. “Partnering with Yale, a trusted name in home security, solidifies our commitment to helping customers establish a secure and safe home environment.”

    The introduction of the Yale Smart Lock with Matter indicates that production of the Nest x Yale Lock will come to an end. Current users will continue to receive software and security updates, so if you are satisfied with your existing lock, there’s no rush to upgrade. However, if you’re interested in the previous model, you should act quickly, as it will only be available until current stock runs out, after which it won’t be found at the Google Store or other retailers.

    No release date or pricing has been confirmed for the Yale Smart Lock with Matter yet, but it is anticipated to launch this summer. Further details are expected as the launch date approaches. Given that we were impressed by the Yale Assure Lock 2, it will be interesting to see how this new model enhances its predecessor’s success.

  • Xiaomi’s New Smart Curtain Might Be What You’ve Been Waiting For

    Xiaomi’s New Smart Curtain Might Be What You’ve Been Waiting For

    Xiaomi has unveiled the Mijia Hidden Smart Curtain in China, offering a compact and efficient solution for managing your curtains compared to other available options. While it’s uncertain whether this innovative smart home device will reach Western markets, it aims to address several issues that current smart curtains present.

    The Mijia Hidden Smart Curtain can be operated through a remote control, the Mijia app, or via voice commands. Users can set schedules for when the curtains should open and close, but the most user-friendly feature may be its ability to respond to a gentle tug. This tug sends a signal to the motor, allowing users to control the curtains easily, which is a great feature for those who may struggle with technology.

    Each unit can accommodate up to 110 pounds of fabric and operates at a noise level of approximately 30 decibels. However, it does not support L- or U-shaped tracks, which makes certain curtain styles, particularly those with eyelets, incompatible without adjustments.

    One of the standout features of this device is its compact design. Xiaomi has specified the dimensions at 2.1 x 3 x 4.1 inches—small enough to hold in your hand—making it a more convenient choice than many bulkier alternatives on the market.

    Currently, the Mijia Hidden Smart Curtain is priced at CNY 599, roughly translating to about $82. While its pricing in domestic markets remains uncertain, it could compete with other smart curtain offerings, such as the SwitchBot Curtain 3 and the Ryse SmartCurtain, which are priced at $70 and $150 respectively.

  • Philips Hue May Add A Smart Doorbell To Its Lineup

    Philips Hue May Add A Smart Doorbell To Its Lineup

    Recent findings within the Hue iOS app suggest that Philips Hue may be gearing up to introduce a smart doorbell to its product range. The app has been updated to include a feature allowing users to install devices either by scanning a QR code or manually. Opting for the manual method displays a list of installable devices, which includes an item intriguingly labeled as the “Hue Secure doorbell.”

    This leak serves as a strong hint that Philips Hue is developing a new offering, although no formal announcement has yet been made. In the absence of specific details, we can only speculate about the features and specifications based on the existing product lineup.

    Currently, Philips Hue features a range of security cameras, including the Secure Flood Light Camera and the Secure Battery Camera, both capable of recording in 1080p. This makes it reasonable to predict that the forthcoming Hue Secure Doorbell will also support 1080p resolution, rather than 4K. Expect a price point around the $200 mark for this new addition.

    Hue secure doorbell
    Hue Blog

    Insights from the app suggest that the doorbell will likely require a hardwired connection to the home’s power supply instead of relying on batteries. This indicates that it will probably replace a traditional doorbell setup. Given that the current items in the Secure Camera series do not support Apple HomeKit, it is plausible that this new doorbell will follow suit.

    This leak appears to be in its early stages, and the information has reportedly been removed from the Hue app. Our attempts to locate it during testing were unsuccessful, but some alert fans captured screenshots of the relevant app sections. It’s possible that this doorbell was intended as part of a recent collaboration with SmartThings, and there is hope that Philips Hue will provide an official update soon.

  • SwitchBot’s New Smart Shade Is Easy To Adjust And Install

    SwitchBot’s New Smart Shade Is Easy To Adjust And Install

    SwitchBot Roller Shade at night
    SwitchBot

    Initially showcased at IFA 2024, the SwitchBot Roller Shade is now available for consumers. This innovative device enables easy customization and supports a DIY installation process, making it simpler to add smart features to your windows without professional help. Prices start at $200, varying according to the size, with the largest option priced at $310.

    The Roller Shade offers a choice of interchangeable fabrics, allowing users to opt for blackout, full UV shielding, or thermal-insulating materials. Additionally, these shades are fully adjustable and can be trimmed to fit most windows effortlessly. They accommodate window widths ranging from 22.8 inches to 72.8 inches, thanks to a lineup of four models that expand to different lengths.

    People installing the SwitchBot Roller Shade
    SwitchBot

    In addition to its easy DIY setup and adjustable size, SwitchBot integrated several practical features into the Roller Shade for everyday use. These include support for the Matter protocol, a powerful 2,600 mAh battery that can last up to eight months on a single charge, and no requirement for any cables or adapters. You can, however, connect it to an optional solar panel for extended battery performance.

    Control of the shade can be accomplished through a built-in wired controller, the SwitchBot Universal Remote, the Hub 2, voice commands, or via a mobile app. The device operates quietly, thanks to its advanced motor that reaches noise levels as low as 30 dB in Silent Mode, making it ideal for bedrooms where peace is desired.

    The SwitchBot Roller Shade is currently on sale at the SwitchBot website. Prices range from $200 to $310 based on size. We look forward to getting hands-on experience with these innovative DIY shades in the near future — in the meantime, consider exploring our selection of top smart blinds for other options.

  • Schlage Sense Pro Unlocks Only When You Want It To

    Schlage Sense Pro Unlocks Only When You Want It To

    The CES 2025 logo.
    CES 2025
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    Smart home gadgets, particularly smart locks, have revolutionized convenience. Imagine approaching your door, laden with groceries, and having it unlock for you—no more awkward fumbling for keys. However, these gadgets can occasionally be a bit too responsive, like when you’re just standing by the door looking out. The Schlage Sense Pro, which debuted at CES 2025, takes this convenience to an impressive new level.

    While it can’t literally read your thoughts, the technology behind the Sense Pro is quite advanced. It recognizes your approach and behaves accordingly. If you approach the door with a sense of purpose, it unlocks; if you meander, it stays locked. The lock is able to assess your direction, speed, and movement to decide when to engage. Just remember, you must have your mobile device on you for this feature to work.

    For instance, should you find yourself on your porch tending to your plants, the lock will remain securely locked. You can stroll right past without triggering it. However, if you inadvertently disturb a hornet’s nest while gardening and make a hasty retreat, the lock will prepare itself for your entrance.

    Someone using the Schlage Home app to unlock the Schlage Arrive lock.
    Schlage

    This smart lock connects directly to Wi-Fi, eliminating the need for a separate hub. It can accommodate up to 250 distinct access codes and supports Matter-over-Thread, enhancing compatibility with other smart devices in your home. Pair this innovative lock with the upgraded Schlage Home app, and you have a formidable combination of smart technology. The app allows easy management of settings, including the auto-lock timer and usage history.

    With the app, you can oversee all of your connected Schlage locks and control them effortlessly. On top of that, Schlage has introduced the Arrive Smart Wi-Fi Deadbolt, featuring a keypad with raised keys. This textured keypad offers ease of use when wearing gloves and is a significant improvement for those with visual impairments or other disabilities.

    Related
    • Ultraloq showcases the first-ever ultra-wideband smart lock at CES 2025
    • Lockly is bringing Matter and facial recognition to your front door in 2024
    • Wyze Garage Door Controller alerts you if you left it open

    The refreshed Schlage Home app is set to launch in early 2025. Both the Schlage Arrive and Schlage Sense Pro will be available for purchase later this year, with exact release dates and pricing yet to be announced. Additionally, the installation is designed to be straightforward, allowing most people to complete it with ease.

  • Roborock’s New Smart Vacuums Pick Up Your Socks

    Roborock’s New Smart Vacuums Pick Up Your Socks

    Roborock has established itself as a leader in the realm of innovative and practical robotic vacuums, offering models like the Qrevo Curv and the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra. At CES 2025, the company unveiled new additions to its impressive collection: the Roborock Saros Z70, Saros 10, and Saros 10R. Notably, these robots come equipped with an extendable arm designed to pick up various objects, including trash, socks, and lightweight shoes.

    Digital Trends received compensation for considering coverage of these products. The brand had no input on the editorial content and did not influence the coverage.

    The OmniGrip system transforms the basic function of a robot vacuum into a versatile in-home assistant, capable of tackling obstacles that would typically hinder a thorough cleaning. Traditionally, users would have to clear the area of any items that might obstruct the vacuum, as even a small item like a sock could stop the brush from spinning or interfere with its cleaning path. With OmniGrip, the vacuum can lift and relocate objects weighing up to 300 grams, though it initially recognizes only a limited range of items, including small towels, socks, tissues, and sandals.

    The Roborock Z70 lifting an object and depositing it.
    Roborock

    Meanwhile, the Roborock Saros 10 is equipped with the RetractSense Navigation System, allowing the arm to retract and navigate under low furniture, such as couches. With a height of just 7.98 centimeters (approximately 3.15 inches), this model features an upgraded mopping system that ensures a more effective clean.

    The Saros 10R takes a step away from the conventional Laser Distance Sensor (LDS) navigation, opting instead for a sophisticated AI-enabled camera system that creates detailed 3D environmental maps for improved obstacle detection. It shares the same slim profile as the Saros 10.

    The Roborock Saros 10 navigating under a tight, low-clearance piece of furniture.
    Roborock Image used with permission by copyright holder

    In addition to its new line of robotic vacuums, Roborock has debuted a handheld wet-dry vacuum. The F25 Series can lay nearly flat to access tight spaces beneath furniture, and its tangle-free roller design minimizes the hassle of removing entangled debris.

    Overall, these new robotic vacuums enhance the cleaning experience with superior navigation and functionality. The Roborock Saros 10 is set for release in January 2025, although its pricing remains unconfirmed. The release timelines for the Saros 10R, Saros Z70, and the Roborock F25 Series are less certain, pending further announcements for 2025.