Technology giants like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Apple are all vying to coalesce the still-nebulous array of smart home technologies you can get today into an integrated experience. And to be frank, most of these supposed smart devices don’t really make life much easier, let alone play nice together. But some of the devices tend to be more ready for prime time and worthy of recommending today than others, even if we’re still a couple of system upgrades from demanding, “Tea. Earl Grey. Hot.”
Smart Home Devices That Will Make Life Easier
Eero
This manufacturer might be to home wi-fi technology as Nest was to residential thermostat technology years ago, eliminating the traditionally complex, technical jargon laden procedure for establishing wi-fi and turning it into a 10 minute process – a seamless set-up creating a reliable and fast signal throughout a home, no matter the square footage. Simplicity is at the very center of Eero, beginning right out of the box with a minimalist industrial design. Each Eero unit can perform operating as being a router, Ethernet-equipped access point, or range extender and is built to work as a trio (or more). Plug one into your cable modem and position the other two units within range of at least one to cast a mesh network that reaches further and faster than an individual wi-fi router. The device can be extended with additional units and is also remarkable at reviving dead wi-fi zones just like a wireless network equivalent of Melissandre. If easy is exactly what you’re trying to find, Eero happens to be the best wi-fi hardware available.
ALNpet Feeder
As an owner of four dogs, it’s easy to attest to the genuine utility and advantages of an automatic and connected pet feeder. This device is remarkably packed with features: wireless connectivity, app controlled feeding, retractable feeding bowl, remote video camera, as well as a microphone to listen in your furry friend crunching on kibbles. The feeder isn’t just convenient; our experience with automatic feeders has proved that we tended to overfeed our pets before switching to an automated schedule
Frigidaire Gallery Cool Connect Smart Window AC
Window air conditioning units are almost exclusively an eye sore one learns to live without having of sheer necessity. But the Frigidaire Gallery Cool Connect model was created having a significant amount of attention, and it’s undeniably the very best looking window AC unit currently available. Clean and simple, the unit features a touch panel control and a remote, however the real fun employing this 8,000 BTU unit (the ideal size for your home office or bedroom) happens upon launching its compatible app which provides the convenience of control and scheduling the unit from afar, whether it is from the office, or simply across the room while deeply embedded on the couch in potato mode.
Sony Multi-functional Light
The Japanese electronics company is thinking of smart home hub technology differently from their American ilk, disguising a slew of multi-functional features in the package of an overhead LED light. Equipped with built-in motion detection, temperature, humidity, and light sensors, the overhead light’s numerous sensors and connectivity technology allow it to orchestrate other network-connected appliances. For example, it can recognize when occupants are in the room, and the Sony device is capable of turning on air conditioning units, heaters, or even work as speakerphone system.
Lutron Serena Shades
This remote roller shade system has been obtainable for awhile now, but it’s been evolving with the times, adding iOS app controls and now Apple HomeKit integration. Plugged into a house internet router, the Smart Bridge adds an impactful automation tool, one benefiting not merely home privacy/security, but in addition interior temperature regulation throughout the summer. Users can customize specific settings and schedule them throughout the week, down to specific hours, or even coinciding with daily sunrise and sunset. Those designing a home theater system will especially appreciate automatic remote roller shades. And engineered with Apple HomeKit compatibility, this system is future-proofed to evolve as smart home connectivity improves, playing nice with complementary devices like Philips Hue light bulbs
Google Home
Expect to hear a lot more about Google Home in the near future, an adorable speaker which is the first serious Amazon Echo contender. Just like the Eero wi-fi system above, Google imagines users placing several Google Home units throughout the house, each capable of working independently and in conjunction with other home automation devices. And of course, you can ask the little speaker whatever you might otherwise Google on your phone or computer by voice alone. Like it or not, it appears very likely we’ll be talking to the internet through some type of device like this in the near future.
Elegato Eve Room Wireless Indoor Sensor
Another Apple HomeKit compatible sensor device, the 2016 iF World Design winner is engineered for everyone interested in monitoring indoor environmental conditions, especially of great interest to those sensitive to allergens or pollution indoors. The spare all-white battery powered unit continually “breathes” in air, monitoring air quality, temperature, and humidity. The trio of sensors report back an in depth report to an iOS-compatible app for review, and users can even evoke Siri by voice command to control and command the Eve unit by iPhone or iPad.
Blueair Sense+
This latest edition is distinguishable with the addition of wi-fi enabled remote controls allowing automatic control functions such as the airflow speed, LED light, child lock and night mode via iOS or Android compatible app. The 2-stage HEPASilent+ Filter operates quietly at its lowest setting – perfect for bedside use – but may be turned up for much more serious air cleaning duties when needed. And thankfully Blueair has retained the simple and modern design that makes maintaining your air purifier out in any room less of a decorative compromise than most other units within the category.
Not sure how to install these devices, no problem. Nick & Cindy Davis can assist you in finding your new home that has all the latest technology already installed. We are always just a click here or call to 813-00-7116 away.