Time to take advantage and do Home Automation.
Before the Shelter in Place is lifted, take advantage of the time you are still inside to automate your home more and to keep it comfortable. Some devices, you will find, will be good for the outside as well as the inside of your home. Join Ed, Gary and Cal for informative conversation. Of course your calls and Mike Brennen with MI-Tech News!
In the news:
T Mobile Phasing out Sprint brand.
Home Automation
Multiple ecosystems;
Apple or iOS – Ecosystem – HomeKit
HomeKit works with Siri who was the first digital assistant with the iPhone 4.
Sites to research HomeKit devices.
https://www.cnet.com/products/apple-HomeKit/compatibility/
https://www.tomsguide.com/best-picks/best-HomeKit-compatible-devices
https://www.apple.com/shop/accessories/all-accessories/HomeKit
Android – Ecosystem – Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant
Both are good systems and if I had to choose I would go with Google Assistant because of the greater search features.
Sites to research Android based devices.
https://www.pcmag.com/news/the-best-smart-home-devices-for-2020
https://www.digitaltrends.com/home/best-smart-home-devices/
https://www.androidcentral.com/top-must-have-smart-home-accessories
Also you want to check if your Home Automation device works on the more open ecosystem IFTTT. It is freeware.
Be aware that some devices will work in multiple ecosystems. Check the specs on the device for details.
While it does not change color – The WYZE bulb is a good value at $7.99 / 4 for $29.99 and you do not need a hub with the bulb system. Works via Wi-Fi but only on the 2.4gHz frequency.
https://wyze.com/wyze-bulb.html#
There are so many things that can be automated. When you start to look you’ll be amazed what you can do out side of the usual. Here are a few links to check out. Some are value priced.
Door Locks (https://www.kwikset.com/smart-locks/buy-smart-locks?gclid=EAIaIQobChMIoKel0au46QIVT77ACh3o6A1lEAAYASAAEgJgUfD_BwE)
Doorbell cameras (https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/wyze-cam-pan)
Smart plugs to convert non smart plugs (https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/samsung-smartthings-wifi-smart-plug)
Smart Speaker – for music and voice command of home automation (https://www.techradar.com/news/best-smart-speakers)
Drag that water hose out once a season and then control it remotely with choices like this (https://nerdtechy.com/best-smart-outdoor-faucet-timer)
Unusual Smart Home devices – Some are quite pricey and some are not.
https://www.lifewire.com/unusual-smart-home-devices-4145020
https://www.familyhandyman.com/smart-homeowner/weird-smart-home-gadgets-you-didnt-know-existed/