Smart home renovation has been something I've been putting off for a long time. Being a tech journalist, these gadgets are of course intriguing to me and I've tested out several - from Xiaomi security cameras to Amazon speakers and Philips Hue lights. Despite finding them useful, I haven't succeeded in creating the smart home that companies market; one where my alarm speaks to my coffee machine, activates the robot vacuum cleaner, etc. My lack of interest in automating my home is partially from the disarray within this space.
Creating a Smart Home in 2023: Guidelines for Success.
Smart lighting
Smart lighting systems are a great way for people interested in living in a smart home to start. These systems do not require a central hub, yet they can still interact with other smart home elements like the Amazon Echo and Google Nest. For example, Cree, LIFX and TP-Link bulbs communicate over Wi-Fi and the newest Philips Hue bulbs use Bluetooth radio connected to your smartphone.
Smart Speakers
Having a smart speaker connected to your smart lights that will dim the lights when you say "dim the lights" is far more convenient than pulling out your smartphone. Amazon Echo and Google Home are dominating this market. While Amazon has had a greater presence, broader support, and was once the only manufacturer with speakers with displays, Google is quickly catching up.
The utilisation of Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant in one-of-a-kind third-party products has been on the rise.
Smart TVs
I chose LG B9 and LG G2 smart OLED TVs for my TV needs. Google Assistant is included in both models, making it easy to navigate, access streaming services for movies and TV shows, and turn on my sound bar or PlayStation 5.
Smart thermostats
A smart thermostat stands out among other smart home devices for its ability to deliver both a comfortable environment and significant energy savings. It does more than create a heating and cooling plan based on when you're home; it also senses your presence, so that the HVAC system runs only when necessary.
The latest in thermostats have sensors that you can place in the rooms you use most, so instead of heating or cooling cycles based on the thermostat’s location, it adjusts based on your position in the house. The Ecobee SmartThermostat has a built-in Amazon Echo speaker and remote room sensors to eliminate hot and cold spots. It even serves as a hub for home automation or security systems. Alternatively, Nest offers their $129 Nest Thermostat, and Wyze Labs has an inexpensive model if those are too pricey for your budget.
Home security cameras & video doorbells
Home security cameras provide a vigilant watch for your home, especially when you're away. Indoor cameras let you keep tabs on children and pets, and outdoor models can spot potential intruders and deter them from coming around. Some models feature lights to light the way home. Doorbells with cameras monitor your porch and allow interaction with people at the door even if you're not home. The most advanced models can tell people from pets, as well as alerting when packages are delivered to your door.
Thank you for Reading. Good Luck.
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