5 smart home gadgets I consider completely non-negotiable – and why
[ad_1] I priced out motorized blinds months before moving into my townhome, and it’s incredibly expensive when you go through popular installation companies. Nevertheless, smart blinds were not something I could skip. My home is on the corner of a busy cross street in our neighborhood, and the entire street can quite literally peer in. […]
I never leave for vacation without doing these 7 home security checks first
[ad_1] Qi Yang/ Moment via Getty Images Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. ZDNET’s key takeaways Make your home look like a bad choice for burglars. Smart locks and leak sensors give you peace of mind. Simple steps have a big impact on preparation. I love traveling, and I want to get away […]
I’ve spent 48 hours with the Google Home Speaker, and Gemini is off to a promising start
[ad_1] pros and cons Pros Loud, crisp sound Gemini for Home with generative AI Intuitive controls. Cons The microphone array doesn’t pick up voices when the music is loud More expensive than Nest Mini alternatives. more buying choices Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. The Google Home Speaker was officially released […]
I’m a smart home reviewer, and these are the only deals I’m shopping this Prime Day
[ad_1] Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. Amazon Prime Day 2026 is upon us, and there are many chances to score some big discounts across various categories right now. For the smart home, Prime Day is one of the best times to buy certain devices, like smart speakers and security cameras. Also: The best early […]
Google Home Speaker vs. Amazon Echo Dot Max: I compared the $99 smart hubs by the specs
[ad_1] Google/Amazon/ZDNET Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. ZDNET’s key takeaways New Google Home Speaker arrives June 25 for $99. It directly rivals Amazon’s $99 Echo Dot Max. Google may be smarter, while Amazon may sound better. Google just announced the new Google Home Speaker, which will officially go on sale on June […]
Watching sports at home? I’d change these 4 soundbar settings for the most optimal audio
[ad_1] Kerry Wan/ZDNET Follow ZDNET: Add us as a preferred source on Google. As much fun as it is going to a professional sporting event, nothing beats watching the big game in the comfort of your own home. If you’re watching who’s going to take it all on the basketball court, diamond, soccer pitch, or gridiron, you […]