Google calls Home Hub security claims 'inaccurate' - CNET

After a hacker found vulnerabilities in the Home Hub's code, Google pointed out that you need to be on the same Wi-Fi network to exploit the code.

source https://www.cnet.com/news/google-calls-home-hub-security-claims-inaccurate/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Make your garage door smart for $60 - CNET

Originally $130, the Chamberlain MyQ is compatible with most modern garage-door openers. Plus: Buy a Tile Mate 4-pack (the new ones, with the replaceable batteries), get a free third-gen Echo Dot!

source https://www.cnet.com/news/make-your-garage-door-smart-for-60/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Monday, 29 October 2018

August adds voice unlocking and doorbell announcements - CNET

August is making it easier to manage the front door with the latest updates to the August Smart Lock and August Doorbell Cam Pro.

source https://www.cnet.com/news/august-adds-voice-unlocking-and-doorbell-announcements/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Ring’s Stick Up Cam Wired is better than before video - CNET

You still have to pay a fee for cloud video storage, but this indoor/outdoor security camera is pretty darn good.

source https://www.cnet.com/videos/rings-stick-up-cam-wired-is-better-than-before/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Wi-Fi smart plugs: Get a 2-pack for $11 - CNET

Or get a 3-pack for $16. Bestek's 10-amp mini-plugs are a super-sweet deal. Plus: an exclusive offer on a 2-in-1 cordless vacuum!

source https://www.cnet.com/news/wi-fi-smart-plugs-get-a-2-pack-for-11/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Wednesday, 24 October 2018

Tuesday, 23 October 2018

Alexa, be afraid - CNET

Commentary: Think Alexa is the voice assistant to beat? Think again.

source https://www.cnet.com/news/alexa-be-afraid/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Save $100 on the last outdoor Christmas lights you'll ever need - CNET

EverLights are controlled by Wi-Fi and designed to be left up year-round. This starter bundle includes 25 feet of lights for $300. Plus: the return of the $14 gaming headset.

source https://www.cnet.com/news/save-100-on-the-last-outdoor-christmas-lights-youll-ever-need/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Sunday, 21 October 2018

These smart plugs are the secret to a seamless smart home - CNET

Small but mighty, these smart plugs add voice control, power monitoring and a handful of conveniences to ordinary devices.

source https://www.cnet.com/news/these-smart-plugs-are-the-secret-to-a-seamless-smart-home/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Friday, 19 October 2018

Best Home Theaters, Silver and Bronze, $25,000-$75,000

Silver Winner: Acoustical Solution Answers Aesthetic Request Too

This spectacular looking theater shows the importance of following standards and meeting customer challenges is something custom integrators address on a worldwide basis, as with this customer in China. With an emphasis on its 7.2.4-channel sound system that centers on Dynaudio loudspeakers, SentimentHiFi delivered a theater room that also adhered to CEDIA standards and met tight deadlines, according to CEO GuangYu Feng.

“At the very beginning, we recommended the Dynaudio custom system to the client and we told him: When you invest in a Dynaudio custom system, you’re investing in a hi-fi system with heritage … 40 years of audio expertise, harnessing the same core technology, craftsmanship and fanatical attention to detail,” Feng recalls.

SentimentHiFi followed industry standards “from start to finish” in constructing the theater, Feng says, but one challenge was also meeting the owner’s modern décor aesthetic wishes while balancing with quality acoustic design. Not only that, but doing so within a timeframe of just two weeks to complete the project.

Sentiment managed to redesign the sonic footprint and create acoustical treatments for the theater that included rebuilding the partition wall and installing a shock-absorbing wall to reduce noise. To ensure that the audio system, as well as the projection system that includes BenQ projection, perform reliably and optimally, SentimentHiFi equipped the gear with Furman voltage regulators that provide clean and efficient independent power supply to connected devices. Savant controls offer simplified management of the theater room A/V.

 

Systems & Equipment

  • Savant controls
  • Dynaudio, Syzygy speakers and subwoofers
  • BenQ projector
  • United Screen projection screen
  • Integra amplification
  • Morpheus Blu-ray player
  • Furman power management
  • D-BOX seating

 

Bronze Winner:  ‘Contemporary Classic’ Leans on Close Collaboration

This gorgeous theater room is a prime example of the combined efforts among theater designer, tech systems designer/installer and tech enthusiast client that had a pretty good sense of what he envisioned for a “contemporary classic” space to entertain friends, family and especially grandchildren, says Lifestyle Solutions president Behzad Sarwar.

Lifestyle Solutions handled the design and build-out, while collaborating with its partners at Custom Works on the A/V design and installation. “Our client did a lot of research and knew exactly what he wanted in the A/V system,” Sarwar says. “We worked closely with our client to produce the perfect color scheme and room layout.”

Just as important to the A/V experience was implementing sound isolation, which in this case meant walls and ceiling were all insulated and decoupled using two layers of sheetrock sandwiching a layer of Green Glue, Sarwar explains. The entire room was acoustically treated with fabric covering the top half of the walls.

“Stone work on the columns and front wall was an afterthought, but worked out well with the color scheme,” Sarwar adds. Trim work was done to match existing trim in the house. Meanwhile, Lifestyle Solutions resolved a significant challenge by concealing two doors near the screen wall with fabric wrapping and trim to make them appear seamless with the walls. Of course, the gear itself is no slouch, featuring a whopping 160-inch Screen Innovations Zero Edge screen, Epson laser projector and Klipsch THX Dolby Atmos speaker system.

 

Systems & Equipment

  • Screen Innovations projection screen
    Epson projector
    Yamaha preamp and amplification
    Klipsch THX speakers and subwoofers
    URC controls
    Oppo Blu-ray player
    SnapAV rack
    Liberty wiring
    Palliser seating

The post Best Home Theaters, Silver and Bronze, $25,000-$75,000 appeared first on Electronic House.



source https://www.electronichouse.com/homes-of-the-year/best-home-theaters-silver-and-bronze-25000-75000/

Wednesday, 17 October 2018

Best Contemporary Smart Home, Silver and Bronze Winners, More Than $150,000

Silver Winner: Ultra-Modern Amenities Artfully Enhance NYC Residence

For this project that Rich AV Design outfitted on New York City’s Upper West Side, the owner had purchased three units for renovation into one and wanted a Savant system solution similar to the one in family’s existing home, only with some extra technology. The integrator collaborated with the client’s interior designer, Nick Deramo of Ingro Inc., through the Highline Construction Company, to execute their vision.

“We focused on combining technology and style. This meant working with some untraditional partners and unique installation techniques for a sleek, modern look,” says Rich AV Design owner Josh Rich.

For example, a Ketra lighting system was a high priority. Ketra automatically adjusts color temperature according to outside light to regulate the family’s circadian rhythm, Rich explains, like blue hues enabling natural relaxation; also, Ketra brings stylistic benefits, like the 2,000 color-changing LEDs that create art in the grand foyer.

 

Decorative mounts for Savant sunshades and Lutron blackout shades with in-wall recessed side channels combine form and function for automated window treatments accessing the Manhattan skyline. Aesthetic matters also included using Trufig for all keypads, outlets and iPorts to create sleek control framework, Rich notes.

Stealth Acoustics Invisible speakers tap into the Savant multiroom audio system, while TruAudio soundbars add to the setups for surround sound in the living and family rooms. The living room has a 75-inch TV within marble framing while the family room has an 85-inch TV in a custom A/V cabinet.

Systems & Equipment

  • Savant controls
  • Lutron lighting control
  • Ketra, DMX, Dali fixtures
  • Savant, Lutron shades
  • Stealth Acoustics, TruAudio speakers
  • Sony, LG TVs
  • Access Networks, Ruckus network
  • SurgeX UPS

 

Bronze Winner: Installation Tricks Hide Treasure Trove of A/V Riches

photography by Benjamin Edelstein

Where does one’s jaw begin to drop after entering this 11,000-square-foot modern marvel of a residence overlooking the intercoastal waters of Miami? Integrator MAXICON outfitted seven bedrooms, family room, dining room, living room, dedicated theater, gym, and outdoor pool, terrace and cabana.

For starters, automation and security touches begin with the gate and door intercom remotely accessible and controllable from a smartphone as part of the Savant control system. The first floor offers several highlights and ways Lutron shades take on importance.

In the home theater — which includes Sony projector, Seymour screen, Klipsch speakers and Kaleidescape server — the drapery gray blackout fabric shades ensure the darkest viewing environment. Elsewhere, individually controllable blackouts and sheers allow sunlight when desired. They’re key in the family room, which offers dual viewing options — the new Samsung Frame TV, as well as a concealed projection system prepped to drop from the ceiling at the touch of a button.

The second floor takes guests into another media room, featuring a Leon Speakers soundbar and 65-inch TV. The master suite includes a 75-inch ceiling-stowed TV, and Origin Acoustics in-ceiling speakers and Sony TV in the master bath. An outdoor seating area pipes music into Sonance outdoor speakers.

Finally, there’s the high-tech gym. “Once you enter into this modernistic space the only thing left is a great workout with the Peloton Bikes while watching the latest sports news on the 55-inch flushed-mounted TV,” says MAXICON’s Jessica Persyko.

Systems & Equipment

Savant controls

  • Lutron lighting/shade controls
  • Sony TVs, projector
  • Samsung Frame TV
  • Screen Innovations screen
  • Klipsch, Stealth Acoustics, Sonance, Leon, Origin Acoustics speakers
  • AudioControl electronics
  • Future Automation mounts/lifts
  • Oppo Blu-ray player
  • Araknis network

The post Best Contemporary Smart Home, Silver and Bronze Winners, More Than $150,000 appeared first on Electronic House.



source https://www.electronichouse.com/homes-of-the-year/best-contemporary-smart-homes-silver-and-bronze-winners-more-than-150000/

Tuesday, 16 October 2018

Everything you need to know about Google Home - CNET

Here's your guide on where to buy, how to get started and how to get the most out of your Google smart speaker.

source https://www.cnet.com/how-to/everything-you-need-to-know-about-google-home/#ftag=CADa08b18a

These smart plugs are the secret to a seamless smart home - CNET

Small but mighty, these smart plugs add voice control, power monitoring and a handful of conveniences to ordinary devices.

source https://www.cnet.com/news/these-smart-plugs-are-the-secret-to-a-seamless-smart-home/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Smart Plug review: A smart plug for Alexa only - CNET

If you're living in an Alexa-powered smart home, adding this smart plug is a simple way to automate dumb devices.

source https://www.cnet.com/reviews/amazon-smart-plug-review/#ftag=CADa08b18a

SimpliSafe launches a new video doorbell for $169 - CNET

Available today at Best Buy, SimpliSafe's new doorbell plants a camera at your front door, and you don't need a SimpliSafe security system to use it.

source https://www.cnet.com/news/simplisafe-launches-video-doorbell-pro-for-169-at-best-buy/#ftag=CADa08b18a

What is a smart display and do you need one? - CNET

The Google Home Hub, the Amazon Echo Show and the Facebook Portal are popularizing a relatively new category of tech. What are these devices and how do they fit into your home?

source https://www.cnet.com/news/what-is-a-smart-display-and-do-you-need-one/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Monday, 15 October 2018

The Amazon Echo Plus gets a new look - CNET

Amazon redesigned the second generation of their highest priced smart speaker, the Amazon Echo Plus.

source https://www.cnet.com/pictures/the-amazon-echo-plus-gets-a-new-look/#ftag=CADa08b18a

The Amazon Echo Plus gets a new look - CNET

Amazon redesigned the second generation of their highest priced smart speaker, the Amazon Echo Plus.

source https://www.cnet.com/pictures/the-amazon-echo-plus-gets-a-new-look/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Friday, 12 October 2018

New Amazon Echo Dot plays defense against Google video - CNET

With a new fabric-bodied design and noticeably better sound, Amazon's latest Echo Dot is its best yet -- but can it blunt Google's momentum?

source https://www.cnet.com/videos/new-amazon-echo-dot-plays-defense-against-google/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Free Kangaroo motion sensor when you buy one for $29.99 - CNET

This Cheapskate-exclusive BOGO deal offers dead-simple home security, with or without professional monitoring. Plus: Haven't chosen a VPN yet? Here's one of my favorite deals.

source https://www.cnet.com/news/free-kangaroo-motion-sensor-when-you-buy-one-for-29-99/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Echo Plus (second-generation) review: Amazon's fanciest speaker is still a tough sell - CNET

Amazon upgraded the sound, added seamless smart home hub controls and improved the look of the Amazon Echo Plus, all while keeping the $150 price tag.

source https://www.cnet.com/reviews/amazon-echo-plus-second-generation-review/#ftag=CADa08b18a

The Amazon Echo Plus gets a new look - CNET

Amazon redesigned the second generation of their highest priced smart speaker, the Amazon Echo Plus.

source https://www.cnet.com/pictures/the-amazon-echo-plus-gets-a-new-look/#ftag=CADa08b18a

A hands-on look at the new Amazon Echo Show - CNET

Amazon's latest smart display comes with a bigger screen and better sound. We take a look at this $230 visual assistant.

source https://www.cnet.com/pictures/a-hands-on-look-at-the-new-amazon-echo-show/#ftag=CADa08b18a

The Google Home Hub is a cute, little home control center video - CNET

Watch videos, listen to music, search the web and control your smart home from a single screen with the Google Home Hub.

source https://www.cnet.com/videos/the-google-home-hub-is-a-cute-little-control-center/#ftag=CADa08b18a

A hands-on look at the new Amazon Echo Show - CNET

Amazon's latest smart display comes with a bigger screen and better sound. We take a look at this $230 visual assistant.

source https://www.cnet.com/pictures/a-hands-on-look-at-the-new-amazon-echo-show/#ftag=CADa08b18a

12 new things to try with Alexa - CNET

Along with 12 new Alexa-powered devices, Amazon announced a host of new software features. Here's what to try out.

source https://www.cnet.com/how-to/new-things-to-try-with-alexa/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Will the next smart home revolution take place in the kitchen? - CNET

Tech startups, appliance manufacturers and chefs will gather this week at the Smart Kitchen Summit to discuss the future of the kitchen, introduce new products and more.

source https://www.cnet.com/news/will-the-next-smart-home-revolution-take-place-in-the-kitchen/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Facebook Portal brings Amazon Alexa and Messenger video chats to one device - CNET

It packs an innovative camera that makes video chats look like they were filmed by a professional camera operator.

source https://www.cnet.com/reviews/facebook-portal-plus-preview/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Amazon Echo Show 2.0 review: Amazon's revamped Echo Show has bigger sound and better looks - CNET

Amazon's second generation smart display still costs $230, but you'll get a much better looking and sounding device. Still, it's not the best option out there.

source https://www.cnet.com/reviews/amazon-echo-show-2-0-review/#ftag=CADa08b18a

The new Amazon Echo Dot: Does it sound better than before? video - CNET

We're scrutinizing the sound quality of Amazon's newest Echo Dot smart speaker -- can it beat its archrival, the Google Home Mini?

source https://www.cnet.com/videos/the-new-amazon-echo-dot-does-it-sound-better-than-before/#ftag=CADa08b18a

LizaTech HD Smart IP Camera - CNET

This Smart HD Camera Monitors Your Home with Motion Detection, Night Vision & a 180° View

source https://www.cnet.com/deals/lizatech-hd-smart-ip-camera-16323/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Dim or kill your devices' bright LED lights once and for all - CNET

If blindingly bright status LEDs are keeping you up at night, use these easy fixes to put an end to them once and for all.

source https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-dim-turn-off-led-indicator-lights/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Wednesday, 3 October 2018

How to buy a mattress online - CNET

A mail-order bed may seem crazy, but there are some big advantages to that option. Here's what you need to know.

source https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-buy-a-mattress-online/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Tuesday, 2 October 2018

12 proven ways to get better sleep - CNET

Not getting enough sleep? Staying up too late? Try these tips to help you sleep better.

source https://www.cnet.com/how-to/proven-ways-to-get-better-sleep/#ftag=CADa08b18a

How to pick the perfect pillow - CNET

Get a better night's sleep with your head on the right pillow. Here's how to find one that's just right for you.

source https://www.cnet.com/how-to/how-to-pick-the-perfect-pillow/#ftag=CADa08b18a

FanDuel's new Alexa skill lets you (sort of) bet on NFL games - CNET

Got a bold prediction about the Monday night NFL matchup? Tell Alexa, and you could win your way into a free FanDuel tournament worth real cash.

source https://www.cnet.com/news/fanduel-pick-6-new-amazon-alexa-skill-sort-of-lets-you-bet-on-nfl-games/#ftag=CADa08b18a

4 ways to protect your home from Wi-Fi theft - CNET

If your network is slow or acting weird, it's possible someone is stealing your signal (and maybe more).

source https://www.cnet.com/how-to/wi-fi-security-stealing-wi-fi/#ftag=CADa08b18a