Video Doorbell Advice and Settings for Opting Out of the Surveillance State
There’s also the risk that footage falls into the wrong hands and ends up enabling politically-motivated investigations, police harassment, or stalking without you intending or even knowing about it. Maybe company employees or third-party contractors gain access to videos, or your cameras are hacked. Amazon settled a privacy lawsuit brought by the FTC that mentioned […]
Amazon Alexa+ Is Now Available to Everyone. Here’s How to Turn It Off (2026)
“Alexa+ is significantly more capable than the original Alexa, so we’re working to make it available to as many customers as possible,” said an Amazon spokesperson. “We notified customers of the upcoming update, including how to return to the original version.” Amazon says it’s only upgrading Prime members with supported devices to Alexa+ Early Access […]
How to Use Smart Lighting Around the Home: Reviewer Recommendations
Some smart lighting manufacturers offer hubs that enable faster local control. Hubs are also sometimes required for certain features. If you are opting for Philips Hue, a Bridge ($50) or Bridge Pro ($99) is essential to get the most from your lights. They work best when plugged directly into your router via Ethernet cable. How […]
How to Set Up a Google Home Security System: Best Cameras, Doorbells, and Other Devices
There’s no need for an expensive, professionally installed home security system for a little peace of mind. You can keep tabs on your home when you’re away, check in on your kids or pets, and discourage intruders with a few well-placed security cameras and connected devices. Easily the smartest option on the market right now, […]
How to Shop for a Smart Lock (2024)
You might already have a smart home hub if you have certain smart speakers like an Amazon Echo (4th Gen) ($100) or smart displays like the Amazon Echo Show 8 (3rd Gen) ($150). If you’re an Apple HomeKit user, you might have a HomePod or Apple TV to act as your home’s hub, but HomeKit […]
I’m a New Homeowner, and Here’s How to BYO Smart Home
I was surprised how many smart home products were included. My builder gave us the option to install even more devices during the building process, which would’ve cost almost $2,000 for a handful of door sensors, two motion sensors, a siren, and two control panels. We opted out. I figured I could easily rig those […]
How to protect your smart home from hackers
Thanks to the boom in “smart home” devices, we now live with vastly more connected gadgets: internet-linked TVs; camera-equipped doorbells; online thermostats, door locks and lightbulbs; web security cameras; and even refrigerators, dishwashers and ovens with Wi-Fi. Each online link provides a tempting target for a hacker. The problem isn’t simply that somebody can hack […]
How to Deter Thieves and Improve Your Smart Home Security
Some of our favorite security cameras also come equipped with floodlights. The Arlo Floodlight Outdoor Security Camera ($215) goes up to 3,000 lumens, enough to illuminate a driveway or garden, and doesn’t require electrical wiring, making it easy to install. The Wyze Cam Floodlight Pro ($150) is a more affordable option that also offers 3,000 […]