For the tech savy
Smart Devices For The Home To Make Your Life Easier
What Is Smart Home Technology?
What if all the devices in your life could connect to the internet? Not just computers and smartphones, but everything: clocks, speakers, lights, doorbells, cameras, windows, window blinds, hot water heaters, appliances, cooking utensils, you name it. And what if those devices could all communicate, send you information, and take your commands? It's not science fiction; it's the Internet of Things (IoT), and it's a key component of home automation and smart homes.
Home automation is exactly what it sounds like: automating the ability to control items around the house—from window shades to pet feeders—with a simple push of a button (or a voice command). Some activities, like setting up a lamp to turn on and off at your whim, are simple and relatively inexpensive. Others, like advanced surveillance cameras, may require a more serious investment of time and money.
There are many smart home product categories, so you can control everything from lights and temperature to locks and home security devices. They also happen to make fantastic gifts, whether you're shopping for the holidays or buying a housewarming present. Here's a rundown of the best products we've tested for every room of the house.
Here are some of the best smart home technology devices currently available to help you make your home a SMART home!
- Home Speakers - Google Home Mini (This budget friendly device allows you to control your music and ask it questions about current news, weather and traffic)
- Home Displays - Google Nest - One of the best devices for hands free display. Walk through recipes from popular cooking websites and YouTube.
- Ring Doorbells - Not home? No problem, speak to visitors at your home through your mobile phone.
- Philips Hue Lightbulbs - These lightbulbs allow you to control your lights from your phone, turn the lights on when you are away and use voice controls to turn them on and off
Source: PC Magazine Australia