Expert Reviewed · Last updated June 23, 2026 · This article is regularly updated with the latest information and recommendations. Home Assistant’s 2026.5 release added native RF proxy support — meaning those old remote-controlled blinds, fans, and garage doors you thought were “dumb” can now join your smart home automations. No cloud, no replacements, no … Read more
Expert Reviewed · Last updated June 23, 2026 · This article is regularly updated with the latest information and recommendations. Philips Hue just launched new Play table and floor lamps that sync with your TV, games, and music — plus upgraded smart candle bulbs with Matter support. Here’s what’s new and whether they’re worth adding … Read more
Expert Reviewed · Last updated June 23, 2026 · This article is regularly updated with the latest information and recommendations. The Schlage Sense Pro ships June 29 for $399. It’s the first smart lock with true hands-free UWB unlocking via Apple Home Key — you walk up to your door and it unlocks automatically. Here’s … Read more
Expert Reviewed · Last updated June 23, 2026 · This article is regularly updated with the latest information and recommendations. Why Your Smart Home Needs a Summer Tune-Up You set up your smart home in the winter. Your thermostat learns your heating schedule, your lights turn on at 4:30 PM because that is when it … Read more
Expert Reviewed · Last updated June 23, 2026 · This article is regularly updated with the latest information and recommendations. Google’s first new smart speaker in six years ships June 25 for $99.99. It’s built for Gemini, and it’s a bigger deal than just another speaker — here’s what you need to know before pre-ordering. … Read more
The Short Answer Yes, a smart thermostat saves most households 8-15% on heating and cooling costs, which is roughly $50-$130 per year. It pays for itself in 1-3 years for most people. The savings depend on your climate, habits, and whether you actually use the smart features. But there are real scenarios where a smart … Read more
Why Most Smart Plug Lists Are Useless Most smart plug roundups list ten identical white plugs with no real differences. The truth: most are fine, a few are genuinely good, and some will overheat your devices or disconnect constantly. We tested for reliability, power handling, and platform support to find the five actually worth buying. … Read more
Your Grill Just Got Smarter Summer cooking means standing over a hot grill, guessing when the chicken is done, and running back inside to check on sides. Smart home tech can eliminate most of that running back and forth. From meat thermometers that ping your phone to smart plugs that turn on the patio fan … Read more
Why Humidity Matters More Than Temperature Most people obsess over thermostat settings but ignore the moisture in their air. Here is the thing: humidity affects how hot your home actually feels. A 78-degree room at 30 percent humidity feels comfortable. That same room at 70 percent humidity feels like a sauna. Your body cools itself … Read more
Every smart home guide gives you a list of 200 voice commands. You will use 15 of them. Here are the 50 commands real people actually use daily, organized by when you use them. No gimmicks, no “Alexa, order me a pizza” — just commands that save you time and effort. Morning Commands Set these … Read more
