Using any connected camera products comes with an unstated element of risk, and those of us with some sense of the inherent risks of connected devices deploy them with that in mind. Even so, we tend to hope that the service provider treats our video content with the appropriate level of encryption and privacy controls. 

As your smart home gains devices management of those devices can become somewhat cumbersome without the assistance of logical hierarchies and other organisational tools. These tools vary with the platform and app of your choice, but in the case of Apple’s HomeKit there are a couple of useful features in this area that are overlooked by many users.

The Smart AC Control promises huge energy savings, but that promise is based on dumb AC technology. When using it to add smart features to an inverter-based system, there is a better way. Find out how to use ‘non-thermostatic’ control to provide quieter, more efficient running.

Amazon’s Alexa has some limitations when it comes to managing your smart devices in the app, but by using the Groups feature you can simplify your device naming, and organize your gadgets much more easily.

With the growth of DIY smart home platforms and the increasing popularity of connected smart devices, integration of our reticulation and irrigation needs would seem to be a easy win. Oddly, this is an area that has been lagging for some time.

Motions sensors are the first port of call for many smart home initiates, and they provide some core functionality for triggering activity based on presence, often in conjunction with smart lighting. Two strong candidates are compared in this deep dive article.

A new outdoor smart camera offering is touting an impressive list of features, the most unique of which is the ability to continue operating during a blackout. See how it stacks up against other established devices.

A UK based survey of home router owners provides an eye-watering view of general user ignorance and lack of awareness of basic security requirements. 

Ring has had a pretty good reputation for security, employing best practices for encryption and firmware management, but the existence of this antuentication issue is a head scratcher.

Canary’s Flex indoor/outdoor security camera may not be new, but still offers some capabilities that are lacking from the competition. It’s worth taking a look at how things stack up before deciding on a home smart camera solution.

Keeping track of device vulnerabilities that may impact you is a major headache. There is hope though, with a couple of free online tools that can give some peace of mind that your internet connection is not leaking like a seive.

HomeKit naming clashes can cause all manner of confusion and frustration when trying to use Siri to control your smart home. Unfortunately there is little guidance from Apple on how best to name your stuff. Follow these simple guidelines for reliable and argument free Siri interaction.