Blog

Samsung SmartThings in 2023: The Comeback No One Expected

SmartThings stumbled for years, but 2023 brought real improvements. Here's what changed and whether it deserves a second look.

25 Voice Commands You Didn't Know Your Smart Speaker Could Do

Discover 25 hidden voice commands for Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri that go way beyond setting timers and playing music.

Smart Speaker Not Hearing You? How to Fix Alexa, Google, and Siri Response Issues

Black Friday 2023: Smart Home Deals Actually Worth Your Money

A curated guide to the best Black Friday 2023 smart home deals, what to buy, what to skip, and how to shop strategically.

Automating Holiday Lighting: A Step-by-Step Guide

How to automate your indoor and outdoor holiday lighting with smart plugs, schedules, and sunset triggers for a hands-free holiday season.

Aqara Ecosystem Deep Dive: Zigbee Done Right

A comprehensive look at Aqara's Zigbee ecosystem — affordable sensors, the game-changing FP2, and why it's a top pick for Home Assistant users.

Best Smart Locks for 2023: Keyless Entry Done Right

Matter Protocol: One Year Later, Was It Worth the Wait?

A candid one-year assessment of the Matter smart home protocol — what shipped, what's missing, and whether it lives up to the hype.

First Smart Home? A New Homeowner's Priority Checklist

A prioritized checklist for new homeowners building their first smart home, from locks and thermostats to lighting and WiFi.