The Nest Secure included a microphone no one knew about — except Google
The Nest Secure home security system has always had a built-in microphone that no one knew about, except Google. Although Google claims the microphone was included to add more features in the future, people are wary of technology that may violate their privacy -- especially when they don't know about it.
Amazon’s wall clock is back on the market after Bluetooth snafus
Amazon doesn't make too many missteps when it comes to product launches but its Amazon Wall Clock, designed to augment timers by connecting to Alexa-enabled smart speakers, was abruptly pulled from sale in January and is only now, after some tweaks, available again for order from the retail giant.
Qualcomm goes all-in on Amazon Alexa voice control with a new development kit
Qualcomm Technologies is giving a major boost to smart home device manufacturers with a new addition to its popular mesh Wi-Fi networks. A new development kit is designed to enable the Amazon Alexa Voice Service in new devices with minimal time and financial investment.
Instant Pot prices have dropped on these 5 models by up to $30
Whether you're an Instant Pot beginner or Instant Pot veteran these popular multi-cookers are worth the hype. There are so many Instant Pot models on sale right now, it might be hard to choose. We've rounded up all the deals here so you can find the size and model that's right for you.
Say so long to silver. Samsung brings new colors to household appliances
Samsung introduced two new colors for household appliances, The Korean appliance manufacturer will introduce Tuscan Stainless for several kitchen appliance models starting in May and for the Family Hub Refrigerator in August. New Samsung washing machines and dryers will be offered in Champagne Finish.
Frigidaire goes for ‘wow’ factor with new Gallery ranges, fridges, and more
Electrolux's Frigidaire brand is going all out at KBIS 2019, the annual Kitchen and Bath Industry Show held in Las Vegas this week. The appliance manufacturer's headliner introductions this year include new ranges with gas, electric, or induction heating; a new refrigerator; and a new dishwasher in its Gallery line.
Researchers are once again trying to science the gluten out of bread
For the nearly half a million Americans or more who have trouble stomaching bread and other products that contain gluten, science may soon have a solution. The Washington Post reports that a variety of potential cures are in development, including gene-edited bread and alterations to carbs and fiber.
Innit showcases new solutions for LG’s Signature Kitchen Suite at KBIS 2019
LG Electronics USA is making quite the splash at this year's Kitchen and Bath Industry Show, with new innovations from a host of partner technologies including from Innit, which is bringing new video instructions and adaptive cooking programs to match the capabilities of LG's Signature Kitchen Suite.
Your office is a mess, and it’s making Marie Kondo cry. Here’s how to tidy it up
Inspired by the Marie Kondo trend of getting rid of unnecessary items and de-cluttering your home? Let's talk about how to "Marie Kondo" your office, too. Here are the best ways to remove clutter, get rid of the mess, focus on what matters, and create a happy, minimalistic office setting that will spark joy.
Champagne-colored fridges? Talking toilets? All the appliance trends in 2019
Ever wished you had Amazon Alexa-enabled toilet in your bathroom or a brightly colored appliance instead of boring old stainless steel? The Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS) starts today, and here are some of the trends we expect to see at the show and for the rest of year.
After camera hacks, Nest locks customers out until they change their password
In response to a wave of breaches that have hit security cameras, Nest has taken the step of locking people out of their accounts if they believe there may have been a breach. Users will have to set up a new, secure password before they are able to regain access to their account.
No strings attached: This levitating lamp uses science to defy gravity
Created by Italian design studio idea3D, the Levia lamp is a cool industrial-looking lamp which boasts a levitating bulb. Looking for a table light that will dazzle visitors? You've come to the right place. Here's how you can get your hands on a Levia lamp as soon as possible.
Perlick brings a bigger, bolder version of its high-tech fridge to KBIS 2019
Perlick unveiled a ton of new products at last year's KBIS show in Las Vegas, and this year is no different as the company shows off its new 30-inch column refrigerator featuring four distinct temperature zones, a dual-chamber air filtration system, a touchscreen, and ahumidity monitor.
Ready for his close-up: Another man was caught licking a Ring video doorbell
A man in Lake Worth, Florida was caught on film licking a family's video doorbell. This makes the second incident like this in just over a month after another doorbell licker was caught in California. No one is quite sure what drives these men to lick doorbells whenever the chance presents itself.
Amazon may be close to opening its first cashier-free store outside U.S.
Amazon may be about to open its first cashier-free store outside of the U.S. after a report claimed the firm has secured retail space for a location in London. Amazon Go's tech lets shoppers grab what they want and leave, with purchases automatically charged to their Amazon account when they walk out the door.
KBIS 2019: LG adds Tovala’s meal platform to its array of smart oven add-ons
LG Electronics USA is working hard to capture its segment of the smart kitchen market and the company is bypassing some proprietary technology options, instead partnering with many smart kitchen apps like SideChef, Innit and Drop, and most recently integrating Tovala's meal delivery platform.
Here’s how Facebook taught its Portal A.I. to think like a Hollywood filmmaker
When Facebook introduced its line of Portal screen-enhanced smart speakers, it wanted to find a way to make video chat as intimate as sitting down for a conversation with an old friend. Here's how its engineers tried to pull off the feat using some smart A.I. and a bit of human creativity.
Ring Spotlight Cam Wired review
With an integrated spotlight, crystal-clear video, and color night vision, this device makes home security a cinch. Here's why we like the Ring Spotlight Cam Wired as a great choice for outdoor home security. Get the details in our full review.
4 small appliances that have changed the way we cook food (for the better)
Ever heard of a sous vide machine? How about an air fryer? These are exciting times for home cooks seeking to advance or simplify their technique in the kitchen. That’s thanks in part to four small appliances that have made a splash over the past few years. Here’s why you should consider buying them.
Ring Video Doorbell 2 review
The Ring Video Doorbell 2 may lack the style and sophistication of premium door-dingers, but few can match its simplicity and versatility. The device, available in both wired and wireless configurations, is easy to set up and adds instant security to your front door. Find out more in our full review.
Consumer groups call out retailers in a bid for better IoT security
Consumer groups posted a "Dear retailer" letter on February 12 that called out Walmart, Best Buy, Amazon, and Target, shaming the companies for selling insecure smart home devices. The letter demands manufacturers implement a minimum standard of security for all IoT devices.
Imagine yourself doing the backstroke in one of the 11 largest pools in the world
From Egypt to Singapore, here's a pictorial breakdown of some of the largest pools in the world - and how you can get there. You might want to start planning your winter vacation right now to access these incredible pools, some of which you can actually windsurf on.
13 crazy gadgets that could be ingenious or insane
We take a look at 13 eye-catching inventions and ask whether they're brilliant or bonkers. Do we need a sleep robot, smart belt, laundry folding machine, or bionic bird? Decide for yourself as we explain what each of these crazy gadgets is designed to do and what they'll cost you if you decide they're a genius idea.
Ring adds color night vision to wired security devices and HDR to wireless ones
Ring rolled out color night vision to its wired security products featuring cameras such as the Video Doorbell Pro and Spotlight Cam Wired. Ring also added HDR control to its battery-powered security devices including the Video Doorbell 2 and the Spotlight Cam Battery. The features are software updates.
How to use Interpreter Mode on Google Home devices
You can now use interpreter mode on a Google Home smart speaker, smart display, and on some speakers with Google Home built-in. You can use the mode to help translate conversations, to help you learn a new language, or even to help you out if you’re studying a second language. Here's how to use interpreter mode.
Google Home and Amazon Alexa are asking smart home device makers for user info
Google and Amazon want to establish a "continuous flow" of information between their servers and your smart home devices, but hardware makers like Logitech have begun to speak out for user privacy. Though the tech giants claim the data is not used or sold, many people are skeptical.
Words are so 2018. The Peeqo robot speaks exclusively in GIFs and video clips
Move over, Amazon Echo and Google Home! Peeqo is a cute robot that will answer your spoken word questions by displaying a specially selected short video or GIF. Because, you know, it’s 2019 and nobody feels comfortable talking to one another the old-fashioned way anymore.
At KBIS 2019, LG brings its biggest lineup of Amazon Dash-equipped appliances
LG Electronics may not have the biggest portfolio of Wi-Fi connected smart appliances in the industry, but its commitment to Amazon's popular Dash supply replenishment platform is firm after it announced before KBIS 2019 that its entire portfolio of dishwashers and laundry appliances will run Amazon Dash.
Samsung washing machine recall results in $6.55M class-action settlement
Samsung settled a class action lawsuit involving more than 30 top-loading washing machine models for $6.55 million. The class action alleged the washing machine tops could detach and explode in wash cycles. Samsung recalled the washers, but consumers sued. Original owners may qualify for refunds and a cash settlement.
Abode Systems taps HelloTech for professional security system installations
Abode Systems is rapidly expanding into the smart home security market and now the company is hoping to reach more smart home customers than ever before with a brand-new partnership with tech support giant HelloTech to provide new customers with enhanced do-it-for-me home security installations.
Google might release a smartwatch and multiple Pixel phones in 2019
With all eyes on MWC and Samsung, you might have forgotten about Google. However, Google seems to have a lot planned for 2019. According to a report, Google is planning on releasing multiple new Pixel phones, a smartwatch, a new Google Home, and a Nest Security camera, all within this year.
With new blueprints, Amazon empowers anyone to create Alexa skills in minutes
Amazon launched its Skills Blueprints initiative last year to help users create and publish new and custom Alexa skills in minutes using easy-to-use templates and now the technology giant is handing out a new and improved model that includes more customization, bells and whistles.
Eight Sleep’s Pod bed keeps you cool (or warm) and tells you how you’re sleeping
Americans are chronically sleep deprived, and sleep fitness start-up Eight Sleep wants to change that. The company has announced The Pod, a biometric-tracking, temperature-regulating smart mattress. Reservations start today, with the mattress due to begin shipping in April.
Amazon’s Whole Foods raises hundreds of prices, from ice cream to soap
Whole Foods Market raised prices on hundreds of items. When Amazon bought Whole Foods, the promise of lower prices attracted customers, but now the glow may diminish with recent price bumps. The company cites inflation and rising costs of ingredients, packaging, and transportation as factors.