HomeTech.fm: Recent Episodes
Gavin Campbell, TJ Huddleston, & Seth Johnson
The HomeTech Podcast features news, opinions, insights, and advice on all things Smart Home | Co-Hosted by Home Automation Pros Gavin Campbell, TJ Huddleston, & Seth Johnson
On this week's show: Blink announces updates, Aoetec has a new Z-Stick Pro, FX Luminaire teams with Rachio, Philips Hue has another expensive light, Seth reviews the “AI” Horn from Ubiquity, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Home Assistant Community Day is a success! Switchbot has a new lock that looks at you, Tapo has a $70 budget smart lock, Google adds AI to APIs, TCL TVs get better audio support, myQ adds a video doorbell, Apollo Automation launches a new POE powered mmWave Sensor, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Getting ready for Home Assistant Community Day, Amazon still claims Alexa Plus is real, Aqara launches a voice assistant device, WiiM’s new kit, a few “interesting” outdoor lighting options from Nanoleaf and Govee, Lock Talk is back with lasers! Plus, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
It’s Home Assistant Community Day Season! Meet up with TJ or Gavin on May 24th in Ohio or Ontario.
On this week's show: WiiM is on the AppleTV, Sonos gets AI, Samsung buys more receivers, Matter gets an update, letters from the mailbag, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
It’s Home Assistant Community Day Season! Meet up with TJ or Gavin on May 24th in Ohio or Ontario. On this week's show: Ecowitt launches an inexpensive shut off valve with flow meter, Unifi announces new cameras, Sonos and IKEA are breaking up, Ring wants you to watch birds, Amazon Alexa+ is out, Gavin and Seth’s Navimow lawnmower first impressions, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Yale has a new lock with easy integration with ADT systems, Google kills 1st and 2nd gen Nest devices, Aqara releases a few new products, Wiz shows off a new HDMI TV light, light bulb cameras are a thing, Roku has new cameras, Eve joins Home Assistant, letters from the mailbag, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: We’re starting off conversations with various manufacturers and businesses within the industry about tariffs with Zooz VP Agnes Lorenz. Max pricing is going up for people who share passwords, Josh.ai celebrates 10 years with a special edition controller, Reolink joins works with Home Assistant, a retro pick of the week, project updates, and more!
On this week's show: Gavin takes a pair of Sonos Ace Headphones for a test drive, TJ get's his fun fixed, a pick of the week, project updates, a HomeTech headline, and so much more!
On this week's show: Tariffs are a causing havoc on pricing, and then may not? The rich want “dumb” homes more than smart homes, Aqara adds the Matter for 50 device types, SmartThings gets Matter 1.4, Eufy has some interesting spring announcements, Samsung releases a BB8 style robot, Sonos drops prices, Z-wave isn’t dead for real this time, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Aqara updates the G5 Pro based on customer feedback, Logitech starts to stop supporting some Harmony remotes, Alexa+ is out but only for a select few, Yale releases an ugly lock, Samsung wants to text you on your vacuum cleaner, Gavin tests out HomeyPro, a pick of the week, letters from the mailbag, and so much more!
One this weeks show: Rachio releases a smart outdoor lighting transformer that Matters, UniFi launches more products, Switchbot announces integrations with Home Assistant, Wiim has a new 100W amp, Plex raises prices, SAVI Controls and Oliver IQ merge, Netflix offering HDR10+, a pick of the week, project updates, and Gavin's tale of how his technology stacked up against car thieves. All this and more on this week's HomeTech!
On this week's show: Two weeks of news from all around the industry including updates from Amazon, Google, Sonos, iRobot, Josh.ai, IKEA, Home Assistant, and more! We also take a few moments to answer questions from the mailbag, review a few open projects, and turn our socks right-side out. All this and so much more on this week's HomeTech!
On this week's show: People want OLED and big TVs, Abode is now on AppleTV, Switchbot launches shades, Ubiquiti has a number of new WiFi 7 products, ThirdReality has a mmWave sensor, we answer a few letters from listeners, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Apollo joins the Works with Home Assistant program, YoLink releases a new local hub, eero launches their Wi-Fi 7 router lineup, UniFi announces new 10 Gigabit Cloud Gateways, several new smart home products hit, Tado raises eyebrows with app subscription tests, Amazon unveils their long awaited, AI-powered Alexa+, a pick of the week, TJ's honest review of the Aqara G5 Pro, project updates, and so much more!
On this week’s show: Josh AI announces their Winter Event, prices are going up in response to tariffs, Netflix scrambles to prevent their app from being what customers want, Aqara releases new switches in the US, and perhaps a new PoE camera, plus our pick of the week project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Unifi drops their new SuperLink IoT gateway, Sonos makes headlines with executive changes and weird canceled products, we discuss the future of smart appliances, answer some letters from the mailbag, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Sonos has ambitious goals for the streaming space, Amazon is teasing a February mystery product event, Apollo Automation is shipping their Temp-1 sensor for Home Assistant users, a pick of the week, project updates, Gavin drops a bombshell about is new NVR system, and so much more!
On this week's show: Elevate your smart living experience with groundbreaking HomeTech news and information! We unpack Unifi's game-changing AI Key for next-gen automation and Xiaomi's Matter-enabled Smart LED Bulb that redefines ambient intelligence. Discover Logitech's revolutionary peel-and-stick radar sensors for invisible space optimization and Apple's Thread radio breakthrough transforming iPhone connectivity. We analyze market-shifting tariff impacts on TSMC's chip dominance and insights from Acquired Podcast's deep dive. The CSA/Thread/Wi-Fi Alliance dream team reveals their blueprint to supercharge Matter's potential. Plus: marvel at a handcrafted pick of the week, explore ComfyUI's AI-powered creative suite, unlock pro audio control with our featured Sonos menu bar app (while the Ecobee API window closes for newcomers), project updates, and more!
On this week's show: Netflix raises prices (again), Snap One and AVA settle, new products come out of Lightapalooza, Smartwings introduces PoE powered shades, SmartThings launches ambient sensing, Zigbee has a new trick, a mailbag question about soil sensors, a pick of the week, project updates and more!
On this week's show: Patrick Spence is out at Sonos and we may have written a song about it... Needless to say this episode is best heard on a Sonos. What's more, we have an amazing pick of the week, tons of holiday project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show we take a look at all of the news coming out of CES 2025. AI, Robots, TVs, Matter, Speakers, IoT, and so much more! We also take time for a few mailbag items and find a pick of the week that Gavin can't wait to get his hands on.
For this year’s Fireside Chat, Adam Justice, Richard Gunther, TJ Huddleston, Gavin Campbell, and Seth Johnson sit down to chat about news and events that happened in 2024 and predictions for next year.
On this week's show: The smart home tech landscape continues to evolve with exciting new product launches and integrations. Inovelli introduces its Blue Switch with a humidity sensor for pre-order, while Shelly unveils a new Z-wave Door/Window sensor. Homey expands its capabilities with advanced energy management features and a new dongle and dashboards for European markets. Tomorrow Fridge brings innovation to kitchen tech, Samsung deepens its YouTube Music integration, a Pick of the Week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: A MAJOR HomeTech mystery has been solved! The FTC warns that smart gadget manufacturers could face legal consequences for inadequate software support, Ikea introduces adaptive lighting for smart lights, Homey unveils new dashboards, and Meross launches its first Matter-certified smart thermostat, Matter-certified updates from SwitchBot and Level, Home Assistant gets CM5 support for the Yellow CM5, 2024.12 release, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Friend of the show Jimmy Hawkins is in the WSJ, UniFi introduces their new AI Port, Google reportedly cancels the Pixel Tablet 2, and new mmWave presence sensors promise battery-powered operation. We dive deep into everyday home sensors with our special guests from Apollo Automation, discussing their innovative lineup including radar sensors, plant monitors, and their H-1 smart holiday ornament. Plus, we explore the latest in smart blind technology from Sunsa, SwitchBot, and MyiBlinds, share our Pick of the Week, project updates,and so much more!
On this week's show: Amazon unveils a massive 21-inch Echo Show, Aqara introduces their new Valve Controller T1 and Smoke Detector, TP-Link launches the Tapo H110 Smart Remote and hub (in Japan), Nuki promises ultra-fast door unlocking with their new smart lock, Level Lock adds Matter support, Google's Gemini AI heads to home products, Apple plans to expand their smart home lineup with a new hub and security camera, listener feedback, a Pick of the Week, Gavin and Seth discuss Linus Tech Tips' smart home challenges, and so much more!
On this week's show: Matter 1.4 reveals promising features for the smart home future, Apple reportedly plans to enter the IP camera market, TiVo OS Smart TVs prepare for US launch, Blink introduces a new hub to extend camera range, we sit down with Wayne Kreifels from Segway Navimow to discuss their robotic mower lineup including the new X3 Series, a Pick of the Week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: We explore "America's Worst TV Hang," Amazon delays their supercharged Alexa until 2025, consumer TV preferences shift towards extra-large displays, CEDIA introduces new membership tiers, Nice OS releases version 8.9, Sonos faces challenges with Ace sales numbers, a Pick of the Week, projecty updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Halloween and the new M4 Mac minis, OliverIQ launches a new multi-protocol hub with smart home as a service, Zooz announces Alarm.com compatibility for their Zen32 and Zen34, we sit down with Maxwell Monson to discuss AquaFlower, a Pick of the Week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Eero ventures outdoors with their new Wi-Fi 7 device, Sonos makes waves with their Arc Ultra soundbar and Sub 4 announcements while maybe planning premium headphones, Wiim partners with Audio Pro, Philips Hue adds customizable lighting effects, Kwikset and Ecobee expand their smart lock integrations, Arlo introduces their first wired floodlight camera, TJ checks out Nanoleaf's new outdoor lights, Gavin dives into Home Assistant's LLM Vision capabilities, a pick of the week, project updatres, and so much more!
Finally getting this show out from before the hurricane. Thanks for the patience and understanding. We’ll be back next week with a new show with the latest news and a few interviews which we’e had planned for a while. Thanks for listening!
On this week's show: EufyCam S3 Pro promises impressive night vision capabilities, a smart front door that can switch from clear to opaque with a voice command, Sonos reveals its plan to regain customer trust, Ring adds 24/7 video recording to select cameras while doubling alarm monitoring prices for some customers, HP introduces AI to its printers, Samsung SmartThings becomes the first to support Matter 1.3, a Pick of the Week, explore Drone XC's 2K QHD Dash Cam with live streaming, dive into Home Assistant's latest update, and so much more!
On this week's show: LG's ThinQ is running Homey, Sonos faces backlash over a botched app launch, and self-cleaning litter boxes are causing concerns for cat owners. Amazon expands Key In-Garage delivery to Canada, while Home Assistant joins the Z-Wave Alliance Board. Samsung introduces a smart ring, Google TV gets a major upgrade, and Nanoleaf finally releases its Sense Plus Smart Wireless Switch. We discuss iOS 18's potential hub-free option for Apple Home users, SmartThings' new Matter Bridge capability, and dive into some exciting new smart home products from Alfred and Lifx. Plus, we tackle a mailbag question, share our pick of the week, give project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: While Gavin is still on vacation, we chat with Tom Dellicompagni and Owen Maddock from The Home Cinema Design Podcast and discuss immersive home cinema design, Sonos leaks about the Arc Ultra and Sub 4, Bluetooth 6.0 is announced with improvements for smart home devices, Ultraloq and Eufy introduce new smart locks with cutting-edge features, a pick of the week, UniFi Protect ONVIF first impressions, and so much more!
On this week's show: Smart home company Brilliant finds a buyer, Nanoleaf introduces new Blocks LED wall panels and permanent outdoor lights, Philips Hue launches kitchen lighting solutions and an 8K sync box, Arlo unveils a wired floodlight camera, SwitchBot releases six new products including a robot-refillable humidifier, Roborock and Dreame introduce innovative robot vacuums, Sonos debuts an exclusive CI channel speaker, LG announces a new ThinQ smart home hub, Aqara joins Works with Home Assistant, launches the Voice Mate H1 and more, Level Home is acquired by ASSA ABLOY, we discuss smart device longevity concerns, share our pick of the week with a smart light database, and so much more!
On this week's show: Interviews from CEDIA Expo 2024 show floor, featuring conversations with OneVision, XSCACE, Specifi, Innovo, and more. Plus the big news about ONVIF coming to UniFi Protect as well as a few other items that were not announced, Snap One's updates to the Control4 platform and the new X4 platform that will be available in Q1 2025. Also a quick note about NiceOS 8.9's new voice assistant for home control and Crestron Home OS's new features that will leave you scratching your head. All this, plus a special thanks to our 2024 sponsor Chowmain, on this information-packed wrap-up of CEDIA Expo 2024!
It's CEDIA time and once again we will be hosting a HomeTech Happy Hour in Denver. More information and how to RSVP is here!
On this week's show: CEDIA is right around the corner, Ubiquiti unveils UniFi Premium Audio, Luon launches Apple Home compatible devices, Wyze introduces a smart bird feeder, Chick-fil-A surprisingly enters the streaming service arena, Ring adds package detection to its budget doorbell, Samsung promises 7 years of TV updates, Amazon's Echo Show 8 loses a key feature, and Govee releases Matter-compatible outdoor lights. We dive into a mailbag question about window sensors, share a thrilling pick of the week, give project updates, and take a look at things for TJ to do in Springfield, Missouri. All this and more on this packed episode!
It's CEDIA time and once again we will be hosting a HomeTech Happy Hour in Denver. More information and how to RSVP is here!
On this week's show: Gavin puts a call out for a private jet, Trinnov announces their Waveforming upgrade is now available to everyone with a Trinnov, TPLink announces a 2-brick sized doorbell, project updates, a pick of the week, and so much more!
It's CEDIA time and once again we will be hosting a HomeTech Happy Hour in Denver. More information and how to RSVP is here!
On this week's show: The team gets a chance to sit down with developer Alan Chow to talk about a new driver marketplace Chowmain is launching. Bond is releasing a new weather station, SwitchBot has an outdoor 2K camera, Sonos ACE headphones now work with more soundbars, the FTC says no more confusing specifications on amplifiers. We take a mail bag question, find a pick of the week, give project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Google Chromecast is out, but Google Gemini is in, Nest shows off a nice new thermostat, Aqara and Meross launch new mmWave sensors, Roku might be dropping Wyze for cameras, Apple is supporting adaptive lighting on Matter devices, Nanoleaf launches a cool new storage product, a mailbag question, two picks of the week, Home Assistant updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Sonos say "Sorry about that app," Logitech forgets it has smarthome products, Amazon kills an Echo and is horrified to learn what $25 Billion bought them, Google is coming out with a new streaming box for your TV, ADT wants you to Trust a Neighbor, two picks of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show we sit down with VSSL CEO Donn Bullock to chat about the unique products VSSL offers and how they fit in the streaming audio landscape, Amazon might start charging $10 for Alexa improvements, Sonos may have a new soundbar on the way, Eve and iRobot add Matter, a letter from the mailbag, project updates, and an amazing pick of the week from listener Jack T.
On this week's show: We sit down and chat about landscape lighting with AMP Lighting’s Zach Evensen. Zach is part of AMP’s sales enablement team and shared with us the keys to a successful outdoor lighting system and what to look for in the future from AMP.
On this week's show: What happens when a mystery box of frozen shrimp arrives at your door, LG buys Homey, the Aqara U200 retrofit lock is out, Philips Hue releases some ugly lights, Roku ruins your TV, project updates, and a pick of the week!
On this week's show: Follow up on the SwitchBot remote and AppleTV integration, Z-Wave gets a security bump, Samsung is the first to Matter 1.2, someone spent $2.5 million on a theater (decorations), project updates, a device that lets you tap and automate everything, Gavin's continued Z-Wave issues are resolved (or are they?) and so much more!
On this week's show: We sit down to chat Z-Wave with Zooz's Agnes Lorenz, pick up a few news stories about Hubitat getting a new app, Switchbot is making a remote, a mailbag question about under-cabinet lighting, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: After a long two weeks the HomeTech Team checks in with Seth's updates from Infocomm in Vegas, TJ reviews a number of Aqara products, Apple talks about AI and less about the home, Alexa may not be getting the AI, Arlo brings tapping to the home, two new universal remote options are on Kickstarter, Govee adds to their outdoor lighting products, SmartThings goes Pro, a pick of the week, and the summer projects have begun!
On this week's show: The reviews are out on the Sonos Ace headphones and the are... not very exciting TJ. Instead, TJ reviews a new camera from Argus, Google Home is getting some features back, older AppleTVs lose Netflix, and HomeKit gets a map view feature courtesy of a 3rd party app. All this, project updates, a pick of the week, and so much more!
On this week's show: Hubitat has a new UI, Home Assistant has a clever voice control hack for iOS, Sonos defends the new app, iRobot backs away from subscriptions, a pick of the week, project updates, and more!
On this week's show: We talk about the latest in home technology news and sit down with Daneal Moneta, chair of the Matter Marketing and Product Work Group, to discuss the current state of Matter and what's new in version 1.3.
On this Week's Show: Z-wave isn't dead, Brilliant might be dead, Sonos app woes continue, Matter 1.3 launches, IKEA is into energy monitoring, Siri comes to Denon (and no one noticed since December), a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Hisense makes a lower cost art TV, Sonos launches a new app with fewer features, Josh.ai fires back at Snap One, Home invents lighting scenes, ecobee is shutting down thermostats, a visit to the mailbag, an amazing pic of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: SnapOne releases a new Traid amp, Ring releases a new camera that is ugly, LG now supports Dolby Atmos, Meross expands into matter with a presence sensor, TJ's fight with technology and tech support, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Net Neutrality is back in the US, Espressif aquires M5Stack, QDEL TVs are all the rage in the future, Sonos has a new app coming in May, MatterBridge helps non-Matter devices Matter, Home Assistant and the Open Home Foundation, Josh.ai is using Home Assistant for integrations, Gavin gives an awesome overview of Z-Wave and Zigbee, TJ teases buying a robot mower, Seth actually finishes a project, and so much more!
On this weeks show: Resideo makes a big $1.4 billion acquisition, Samsung’s 98-inch TV is 4K for $4k, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this weeks show: Josh.ai launches new integrations, LG TVs need an update, Roku ruins TVs, SwitchBot, Yale, and Aqara have Matter news, a pick of the week, a pick of the week, project updates, and more!
On this week's show: Z-Wave LR may be soon coming to DIY systems, Ubiquiti's product and software preview, Dropcam is now gone, Lifx launches some bight lights, a few questions from the mailbag, project updates and probably the best pick of the week yet.
Probably.
On this week's show: Wyze launches a new camera, Hue and SmartThings launch an app, eero announces wireless cables, TJ reviews some Nanoleaf products, Seth's SwitchBot saga, project updates, a pick of the week, and so much more.
On this week's show: Robots will soon begin doing the unimaginable and climbing stairs to fulfill their objectives, Shelly adds KNX, the CSA offers a new check mark logo for secure products, Segway enters the robot mower category, TJ's dying door lock, and project updates from the group.
On this week's show: Bell Canada sets up alarms to catch people stealing phone wire, Switchbot announces a new retrofit lock, Nest Cams are finally able to work fully on Google Home, Youtube redesigns the TV app for shopping, Roku accounts get hacked, TJ gives us a review of LIFX Landscape lights, what it takes for a basic Home Assistant install, project updates, a pick of the week, and more!
On this week's show: Amazon sends a Ring device to the graveyard, Sonos headphones are still not here, Zooz announces some cool new kit, Josh.ai announces a cool new remote, Emporia Vue 3 is shipping, everyone is raising prices and consumers are dropping streaming, IKEA starts to Matter along with Lifx, project updates, a pick of the week, and so much more!
On this week's show: Walmart acquires TV maker Vizio for the ads, a Wyze glitch affects 13,000, Inovelli launches Matter devices, and Josh.ai launches all new voices and a touch and other new products at their winter launch event. A pick of the week, project updates, and so more more.
On this week's show: TJ discovers something magical, Russound announces new mini-AVRs, thieves are jamming Wi-Fi cameras, El Taco matters, Home Assistant joins Z-Wave, project updates, batteries, and a genius pic of the week.
On this week's show, it turns out Comcast isnt selling 10G internet and is told to stop advertising that it is, Ring has a new battery doorbell, Disney+ starts cracking down on password sharing, sports networks are launching a mega-sports networks with all the sports, and Google kills Google Assistant on Samsung TVs. All this news, project discussion, a pick of the week, and so much more!
On this week's show, Arlo is raising prices, iRobot lay-offs, Hubitat launches a new hub, Haier is back and ready to integrate, Home Assistant is now on CarPlay, and Switchbot announces a new Matter hub. All this news, we check the mail bag, TJ updates his kitchen lights, Gavin made a better light bulb, and Seth made a better Home Assistant theme... or did he?
On this week's show we talk about our Apple Vision Pro order status, Seth has a sweet announcement, Netflix announces ads, Sonos announces disappointment, Snap One announces cool stuff but causes drama, and OpenWRT announces they aren't dead yet! All of this news, project updates, and this week's pick of the week.
On this week's show: We catch up with the latest on the MyQ saga, Haeir is the next to shut down hacked integrations, OliverIQ offers an interesting smart home as a service, project updates, cardboard boxes, spiders, label makers, closet timers, a pick of the week, and so much more!
On this week's show: We catch up after an extended holiday break to put a bow on the final news stories of 2023, chat about all of the cool new toys coming out of CES 2024, dig though some great feedback in the mailbag, and talk about all the projects we got done over the past few weeks.
This week we take some time to reflect on the past year for the 9th Annual Technology.fm Fireside Chat. Richard Gunther from The Smart Home Show and Home: On was able to join us once again as we discussed the past years news from all perspectives in the industry.
On this weeks show: Ubiquity releases a product that should have already existed, Apple updates the AppleTV AppleTV app, the CI industry is $29B strong, Google loves experimenting with being an ISP, a big discussion about Homey vs. Home Assistant, a fun holiday Pic of the Week, project updates, litter boxes, rack studs, and of course software updates for everyone!
On this week's show we sit down with Daniel Moneta and talk all about Matter. Daniel works on Product and Marketing Strategy at Samsung Smart Things and is one of the leads responsible for marketing at the Matter Working Group.
On this week's show, Inovelli launches a new fan canopy control, IKEA launches new, affordable sensors, Switchbot launches a new Pro lock, and Konnected launches a new garage door opener integration. All of these and more headlines, a pick of the week, and project updates!
On this week's show, Z-Wave is (probably not) dead, Sonos teases new product, voice assistants can be hacked, Aqara launches an affordable PTZ camera, a new smart lock standard, mailbag, a pick of the week, and new project updates.
On this week's show: MyQ is removed from Home Assistant faster than you can say “YAML” and the world quickly finds better, cheaper alternatives, Josh.ai and AVA respond to the SnapOne lawsuit, Resi Systems releases their 2023 State of the Industry report, Google launches an AI to create scripts for you in Google Home, Disney takes over Hulu, and Switchbot Matters. All of this, a pick of the week, and project updates!
On this week's show, we sit down Inovelli founder Eric Hines to catch up on what the company is up to in 2023 and what the future may bring with Matter looming over Zigbee and Z-Wave products. We also follow up on a few projects and cover a few post-Halloween HomeTech Headlines.
On this week's show, the FCC opens up some bandwith that looks great for IoT devices, ecobee makes a video doorbell that you can answer on your thermostat, Level adds a WiFi bridge, Matter 1.2 is out, a few ideas from the mailbag and project updates galore! All this, and more on this week's HomeTech Podcast.
On this week's show, Mazda shuts down a (hacked) integration with Home Assistant, Best Buy stops selling CDs and DVDs, Netflix says they are opening retail locations, ADT has a new DIY system, a cursed pic of the week, and projects, projects, and more projects.
On this week's show: Ring offers $1m for proof of UFOs, Honda, Acura get myQ, Samsung wants hubs everywhere, Nanaoleaf Matters, and Matter 1.2 may being coming soon. All of these headlines, a pick of the week, project updates, and more!
On this week's show: Smart plugs in Canada are being recalled or automatically bricked, Amazon is launching satellite Internet, LG says “meh” to ATSC 3.0, Disney starts cracking down on password sharing, and a slew of new products hits the market (do any of them matter?). All this news, a pick of the week, and project updates!
On this week's show: The crew talks about the new iPhones and the weird Thread feature on the Pro models, Home Assistant turns 10, and all the cool new products from Amazon's recent event including a PoE powered, wall mountable touchscreen. All of this, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show: Gavin, TJ, & Seth are back from the big show in Denver to share all we have seen and experienced at the show. Plus, bonus interviews from various vendors on the show floor. We want to thank our Happy Hour sponsors again and everyone who stopped by on Friday to make it such a great night. See you in Denver 2024!
On this week's show: Its the last week before the big CEDIA trade show in Denver Colorado! We chat about the excitement around seeing everyone in person, the HomeTech Happy Hour, and a few HomeTech Headlines. Gavin and TJ have a few last minute project updates before they head out including a joint venture to get a tracking feature working in TJ's house. All this, a HomeTech How-To, and a pick of the week!
⭐⭐ Don’t forget to RSVP for this year’s HomeTech Happy Hour! ⭐⭐
More info here: hometech.fm/happyhour
On this week's show, we get excited about meeting up in Denver, streaming prices approach cable package prices, Brilliant has a brilliant new home controller, Switchbot adds quiet support for thin rods, Z-Wave really wants you to know Z-Wave is still a thing, and Leviton Matters. All of these stories, a pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's show, Snap One drops a bomb right before CEDIA, Masonite starts selling its $4000+ Smart Door via Home Depot, WiiM Pro is out to replace Sonos, SwitchBot matters, project updates, and TJ shares a novel way to squeeze your caulk.
Don’t forget to RSVP for this year’s HomeTech Happy Hour! More info here: hometech.fm/happyhour
On this week's HomeTech: Garmin wants subwoofers and acquires JL Audio, rumors abound around Hue getting into security with 4 new camera products, it turns out Matter isn't much of a standard after letting manufacturers to not follow the "standard," Home Assistant updates and discussion, a pick of the week, and more details about the HomeTech Happy Hour at CEDIA 2023!
On this week's show: Google bails on Fuchsia updates for older products, Wyze has a new camera, Nice has new shades, AVPro has a new audio line after acquiring AudioControl, and Peacock has no money. All this, printer updates, a pick of the week and more!
Don’t forget to RSVP for this year’s HomeTech Happy Hour! More info here: hometech.fm/happyhour
On this week's show: Eero launches a new program for rentals, Amazon reveals new Echo Show 5 kit, Onvis smart plugs matter, and a pick of the week you have to see to believe. Gavin goes all in on 3D printing, project updates, CEDIA teasers, and more…
On this week's show: TJ and Seth chat about a recent theater install in Illinois, Blue Iris updates everyone on what happened to their server, HomeKit is getting a feature you probably thought it already had, a new wireless standard for data transmission via light, the US government takes aim at IoT security, project updates, puppies and a pick of the week!
On this week's show: Latch lays off lots of people, Jony Ive makes a record player, a review of Matter device installs, Blue Iris goes down, and a new printer is on its way to Gavin's house. Will he ever learn?
On this week's show: Aqara shows off new keypads and launches a new sensor, Shelly jumps into Z-wave, Amazon starts offing early Prime deals on Amazon owned products, more updates about various projects in the works and the importance of ladder safety as well as a pick of the week!
On "last week's" show: Seth completely forgets to publish a show even though he edited it a week ago, Aqara launches a new lock that Matters with all the options, Gavin updates us on his green lawn project and TJ fixes up the new home. All of this and we chat about the Vision Pro to contractually satisfy our obligations with Apple, overseer of all tech podcasts.
This week on HomeTech: Google gets hit with a $32m reason to stop infringing on Sonos patents, URC launches an all-new, familiar looking for some reason lighting control system, a new app brings intercom to Sonos speakers, no more fun celebrity voices on Alexa, and Level starts eyeing the apartment market with a new doorbell intercom. All this, a pick of the week, a massive amount of project updates, and more!
This week on HomeTech: An update on Telly's ad TV, Comcast launches a cable-lite streaming package, Netflix lied, Max rebrand kills remotes, Android has viruses, Matter matters, a pick of the week, and the crew plots to disrupt the printer market with ads!
On this week's show: TP-Link is boasting some crazy speeds with Wi-Fi 7, Amazon 'pops' out a new product, a new free* TV for people who want more ads, Wemo says they will or won't fix a security flaw on a discontinued product, Ring's former CEO has the Midas touch, and a massive rant on Matter. All this and a pick of the week!
On this week's show we use ChatGPT to review the podcast with mixed results, Amazon is upgrading Alexa with some ChatGPT magic, Yo-Link gets some impressive updates but not to their website, Google wants to Matter and releases a nice docking tablet, Gavin dives back into the world of soil sensors, a question about Reolink cameras, and a pick of the week.
On this week's HomeTech: Abode gets Google Nest (again), Paramount+ gets subscribers, Amazon gets Matter, and a cat gets a new scratching post thanks to Apple. All this and more, plus some big project updates including a new home for one of our co-hosts!
On this week's HomeTech: Zooz has a new sensor made for smoke detectors, Ring announces an indoor camera with a privacy shutter, Alarm.com gets smarter with AI, Netflix loses 1 Million customers in Spain, Wiz and Nest really Matter, and Home Assistant is getting serious about voice control. All of this, a pick of the week, project updates, and more!
On this week's show: New products from URC, Aqara, and Sonos, Netflix ends DVD-by-mail service, Apple Homepods can now listen for smoke alarms, how to backup your pictures and files, project updates, and a pick of the week for organizing your things.
On this week's show: Gavin has a printer update…. again, NEXX devices have major security issues, Google Assistant may be doomed, Innovelli launches a new radar light switch, a new survey says "AV techs are cool" (or something like that), a question for Gavin and only Gavin, audio issues for Seth, quick projects updates, and a pick of the week!
On this week's show: Sonos rumors are popping up again, Phillips Hue delays Matter while Eve launches their Matter products, Google and ADT finally have something to show for home security, Amazon opens up their massive Sidewalk network for developers, Home Assistant updates, project updates, and a cool pick of the week.
On this weeks show: Belkin doesn't Matter, Nanoleaf and SwitchBot do, Ring launches a new doorbell with a wider lens, Aqara launches a doorbell that can talk dirty, Home Assistant discloses a long term vulnerability, a pick of the week from 1999, and project updates from the team!
On this weeks show, Ring puts some of its core features behind a paywall, Amazon hopes to launch a satellite internet service, CEDIA 2023 planning woes, multiple project updates, and a pick of the week!
This week on HomeTech: Follow-up from Lightapalooza 2023, Ring CEO Jamie Jamie Siminoff steps down, a new Hubitat hub hits the market, no less than two TJ rants and reviews, Gavin steps up his game in user interface design for Home Assistant, a mailbag message and a pick of the week!
On this week's show: Sonos looks like it will be launching a new Era any day now while also raising prices, Amazon gets a nice update for multi-room audio, Aqara launches 4 new products, including a smart door, project updates, Home Assistant updates, and a pick of the week!
This week on HomeTech: Gavin talks for more than two minutes, IKEA launches a Indoor Air Sensor with an unpronounceable name, SimpliSafe starts monitoring indoor video, Fast internet is coming, Comcast is cutting off Peacock, a pick of the week, and we ask the question, "What makes the best dashboard for the home?"
On this week's show: Josh.ai looks to level up with ChatGPT, CEDIA launches a career toolkit, TPLink launches cheap vacuums that suck (dirt), more on the Netflix password drama, a pet pick of the week, and project updates from the team. All this and more!
This week on HomeTech: TPLink launches something that Matters, Frontier announces 5Gbps Fiber, Netflix says no more password sharing, a great video on why we need subtitles now, a nostalgic pic of the week, project updates, and a speaker rant!
On this week's show: Severs are down, severs are up, lights have been on at one school for over a year, appliance makers really want you to put their products online, Home Assistant beta review, two picks of the week, project updates, and more!
This week on HomeTech: HomeTech.social gets a new feature, a new Wyze firmware hack adds dual streams, Wyze introduces new cameras, Apple re-introduces a new HomePod, LG recalls 52,000 TVs, a pick of the week that any parent would love, and project updates.
On this weeks HomeTech: A new Hubitat Hub is on the way, HDAnywhere announces a new remote, Amazon announces more integrations, Matter comes to Leviton, Smart water tech is here, a folding robot, and project updates from the team.
This week on HomeTech: We welcome in 2023 and the one-year co-host anniversary for Gavin and TJ. We couldn’t completely abandon 2022 without following up on a few news stories and then diving right into pre-CES coverage including: New TVs from LG and Samsung, smart lights everywhere, Matter matters matter, Withings watches you pee, a quick pick of the week, project updates and so much more!
On this episode of HomeTech: Join us for the 8th Annual Technology.fm Fireside chat! This year, we are joined by, Richard Gunther from the Home: On podcast and the Smart Home Show, Adam Justice, Founder and CEO at ConnectSense and Richard’s co-host on the Smart Home Show, and Mike Wolf from The Spoon. We share our perspectives on the biggest connected home trends of 2022 and make some predictions about the year ahead. Don’t miss it!
This week on HomeTech: Eve starts launching Matter upgrades for its devices but, will it matter? IKEA and Sonos are back at it again, a pick of the week, and Gavin gives us an update on his abusive and rocky relationship with Home Assistant.
This week on HomeTech: Gavin and Seth discuss the weeks news including some updates from Amazon and eero that expand the features of current products. Vivint is acquired for $2.8 billion in cash. What's the inside of Michael Jordan's home look like, a few things you should never say to Alexa, and Gavin gives us an update on his Home Assistant project.
This week on HomeTech: We share Black Friday and Cyber Monday purchases, Hubitat gets official with Homekit, Josh.ai teams up with AVA, Eufy has some security issues but Brinks has even bigger problems, a pick of the week, and project updates from Gavin's crashing Home Assistant install to Seth's robot mower.
On this week's HomeTech: Happy Thanksgiving and Black Friday! We're happy to announce a new effort to save everyone for dealing with the collapse of Twitter: HomeTech.social – a new Mastodon instance dedicated for home automation enthusiasts. In the news, we look at another Amazon hit piece and talk about the rumors surrounding 4 new products from Sonos. All that, the pick of the week, project updates, and so much more!
On this week's HomeTech: Hoobs announces a new hub (or bridge). Aqara makes a new pet feeder with voice announcements. Wyze introduces a new 6E router, because "Wyze not?" Amazon is losing $5 billion a year on Alexa and Meta kills off everyones favorite gift for the holiday: the beloved Facebook Portal. All this, a tiny Pick of the Week, and Gavin talks about his big switch to Home Assistant.
This week on HomeTech: Matter is here and already taking on criticism in the media that once thought it would save us all, a double screen pick of the week, and Gavin starts testing his YAML skills with Home Assistant.
On this week's HomeTech: Matter officially launches (finally) with over 190 certified devices, Orro shuts down operations, Blusound has a new speaker, AppleTV+ costs more, Level's new lock is easy to unlock, TJ reviews the install of a G4 Doorbell Pro, and a fun pick of the week.
This week on HomeTech: Wyze Cam v3 Pro is here, Arlo Safe launches to keep you safe, Alarm.com buys Noonlight, Youtube wants more money, and a pick of the week to block all commercials. All this and more project updates on this week’s show!
This week on HomeTech: The CEDIA numbers are in! See how everyone did in our friendly wager this year, Samsung really wants you to know they are first, Assa Abloy says hasta luego to Yale in order to keep Kwickset, AppleTV gets a nice spec bump, Home Pro starts taking pre-orders, Roku jumps into the smart home game, and Netflix announces ads and the end of shared passwords. All this, the pick of the week, project updates and more!
This week on HomeTech: Two weeks worth of HomeTech news all in one show as the group catches up post-hurricane to discuss new products and ideas from the Google, Amazon, and CEDIA events. All this, the pick of the week, and so much more.
This week on HomeTech: A hurricane is heading to Florida, Alexa gets new skills, the EU is taking on IoT security, Yale updates the Assure Lock, Google offers a cheaper Chromecast, and Sonos gets a cool turntable. All this, the pick of the week, and so much more.
This week on HomeTech: The team starts out with rants ranging from Smart TVs to label makers, Alexa giving you more ads, the Nest Router Pro is leaked, Sonos Sub mini finally arrives, and TJ educates everyone about Ohio's premier fruit. All this, the pick of the week, and so much more.
This week on Hometech: Sonos is doing something weird, Comcast rolls out 2-gig speeds, Home Assistant turns 9, Lutron Caseta now has non-Gunther switches, Ring adds a feature that takes away all their other features, and a cool pick of the week from Ubiquity.
On this week’s HomeTech: Gavin gives us a firmware update, Samsung and Hue partner up for cool lighting effects, the HCA says its ready to make appliances smart, Ring drops a new product in Europe, even more Sonos Sub Mini rumors, a cool Pick of the week, and project updates.
Oh, Great! A new episode of HomeTech.fm is out! This week on HomeTech: Gavin turns the table and gets Seth and TJ to spend money, Crestron talks about supply chain issues, Chamberlain kills off its MyQ HomeKit integration, and movies are just $3 this weekend! All this, project updates and a pick of the week.
This week on HomeTech: Fluid One thinks they have a new take on how to control your home, Samsung announces the end of Groovy, Gavin gets some new LoRa devices, and the HomeTech crew announces a great new resource for finding that perfect product.... based on buttons! That's right, the Price per Button Database is real!
This week on HomeTech, WiZ makes an awesome bathroom light, Google might have a new Nest router, the plus in Disney+ means ads, Snap One snaps up another company, and Amazon is leading us into Idiocracy with a new TV show. All this and a pick of the week.
On this week's show, Gavin's rack is "done," Amazon vacuums up iRobot and more user data, LIFX finds a new home, Twinkly has squares, HBO Max discovers Discovery Plus, and Google sues Sonos... again. All that, your questions from the mailbag, and a pick of the week!
This week on the show, will streaming break sports bars? Leviton joins Home Assistant, Wemo’s new smart Dimmer, Google Nest gets an upgrade, finally, Canadian internet is getting faster, Seth talks about travel routers, Gavin updates us on his rack, and TJ automates his car. All of this and the pick of the week!
This week on the show, Wink is back! But for how long? Aqara breaks when you block China, Zooz capitalizes on Youtube shenanigans, Alexa has some ads to show you, and more lock news than you can imagine! All of these headlines, the pick of the week, and more!
On this week's show: Innovelli has a secret, Apple launches live music, Ubiquity increases security for IoT devices, Google wants to ruin its products, Wink is down... again, and a survey about whether or not people like smart home products. All this along with updates on projects and the pick of the week!
On this week's HomeTech: The crew shops for Prime Day goodies, Aqara launches a new curtain driver, URC launches a new AppleTV driver, Home Assistant launches a certification program, and Gavin goes on the hung for a big rack while Seth and TJ try to spend his money. 🤑
On this week's HomeTech: A new way to increase PPB on Lutron Pico keypads, 1 SOUND offers up a Mini Sub but not the one TJ wants, Seth rants about Blue Iris NVR software, and Gavin introduces using double stack for AI events. All this and a "blockbuster" pick of the week!
On this week's show: More button follow up, Bond brings buttons, Switchbot gets HomeKit, Apple clarifies confusion, Gavin drops the F bomb as Plex launches HTPC software, Amazon is just getting creepy, our TV show roundup for the summer, and a beautiful UI Pick of the Week.
On this week's show: Google breaks some things making Matter matter, we say goodbye to Smart Dry, Alarm.com gets some new solar monitoring services, Switchbot makes a keypad, Hue makes a new keypad, Leviton makes a better one, and sweet, innocent Gavin learns about something new from Reddit comments. All of this, the pick of the week, and more!
This week on HomeTech: Apple talks about Matter mattering at WWDC, Samsung talks about Matter not really mattering at event no one heard about, Roku might be acquired by Netflix, Facebook kills the Portal (at least for the home), Insteon rises from the grave, again, and Seth rants about traveling in the UK. All this, the pick of the week and more!
This week on HomeTech: Jasco lands in YouTube trouble, Amazon kills off the original Cloud Cam, Ikea launches a new Matter ready hub and app, we chat about a number of new IoT devices that just hit the market, the pick of the week, and more! Also, Seth completely forgot to press record, so… sorry about the audio this week.
This week on HomeTech: CEPro says its cool to hang TVs over the fireplace and your neck wont really hurt that bad, "Hey Sonos" might be rolling out, Best Buy has a bad quarter, Linksys launches new Wifi 6 kit, eero gets multi-admin, and TJ jumps ship from Hubitat to Smartthings. All this, the pick of the week, and more... 🐊
This week on HomeTech: Onkyo files for bankruptcy, Vivint woes, Sonos might get a baby sub, Ecobee launches a new thermostat, TPLink launches a smart home line, and of course a fun pick of the week!
This week on HomeTech: Sonos has three big announcements and two of them aren't just new colors, Google IO happens and now you're being watched, and Matter starts to matter even less if that is possible. All those stories and a massive, 22-outlet pick of the week...
This week on HomeTech: New kit from both Wyze and Aqara "wow" the DIY market, Leviton launches retrofit-friendly lighting control, Amazon adds new features to both FireTV and Alex but is also spying on you, Gavin wants a New LG 55-inch TV, and a slick pick of the week.
This week on HomeTech: Inovelli pre-order time, Control4 Cancels AVA, Netflix gets Canceled, Sonos has a new soundbar on the way, ecobee may have a new thermostat, and of course the pick of the week.
This week on HomeTech: The gang takes a visit back to the HomeTech Grave Yard to bury Insteon since the company abruptly shut its doors down over the weekend. Garadget announces a new product (in 2022!) for Control4, Canada gets blazing fast internet speeds, LiFX looks like it could be next, Youtube gets to stream some sportsball games, and this week's pick of the week.
This week on HomeTech: A massive Home Assistant update, Eufy's new "all wireless" 4G camera, Plex going after input zero, a quick review of the new AVA Remote from TJ including the WORLD'S FIRST podcast from a remote, and of course, a pick of the week.
This week on HomeTech: It might be April Fools but that doesn’t stop Dyson from releasing a strange set of headphones, is Sonos working on a theater system and remote, Wyze leaves security holes open for years, iHome shuts off android support, two listener emails about storage and networking, a pick of the week, and so much more...
On this week's show, Gavin made an amazing video tiler, SwitchBot launches an outlet switch, iRobot updates make your vacuum smarter, Matter is delayed, eero brings 6E to the market at a decent price, and a retro pick of the week.
On this week’s HomeTech: The crew catches up on some overdue homework, Z-wave lets you open your garage door from 1/4 mile away, IKEA expanding their smart shade offering, Snap One launches new products for dealers, TP-LINK routers are watching you (even if you tell them not to) and a pick of the week!
On this week's HomeTech: Aqara launches the ultimate door lock, AVA launches with two new products for dealers, Gavin reviews the new Zwave firmware while TJ takes a look at Turing.ai cameras, a project review, and an epic pick of the week! Note: Watching "The Afterparty" is now required for listening to this podcast (not really but it’s a great show).
On this week's HomeTech: Samsung teams up with Ruckus, Eufy launches a new combo device, bugs and pests beware of the smart home, Sonos add a lower cost Roam, streaming updates, an egg-filled pic of the week, and more!
This week on HomeTech: Ring lets ONVIF cameras into the app, Frontier bumps speeds to 2Gbps, Crestron announces new lighting products, Aqara jumps on the Matter bandwagon, a fun pic of the week, and more!
SHOW NOTES
HomeTech Headlines
Ring lets non-Ring cameras into its app
Nest Doorbell won’t charge its battery in cold weather, Google confirms
Frontier adds 2-gig speeds across its entire fiber network
Crestron harnesses the sun for your smart home
Inovelli Blue Series Hype Video
Aqara Announces Thread Support in New Product Line Up
The average person doesn’t have a chance with the smart home – TechCrunch
Smart home fragmentation is keeping me from trying new gadgets
Pick of the Week: Modern Art with Wires
On this episode of HomeTech: Nice leaves Nortek branding behind, the FCC does something right for a change, Nvidia doesn't do something right, listener suggestions from the mailbag, and a dust free pick of the week!
On this episode of HomeTech: Orro drops a new product at a new lower price, Disney Plus experiments with live TV, FuboTV is trying to keep you longer, and a long discussion on the state of whole house audio in 2022. All this and of course a pick of the week...
On this episode of HomeTech: Are Sonos headphones coming soon? Custom integrators had an interesting 2021, Amazon knows people don’t like Alexa, Yale updates for Matter, Apple wallet gets keys and possibly more payments, and a much requested pick of the week!
Gavin has a breakthrough on his Smart Dryer project, Z-Wave is dying (or not), Snap One continues its world domination plans, HomeBridge adds support for HomeKit Secure Video, Wyze says Goodbyze to their V1 cameras, and a Star Trek inspired pick of the week, and more!
On this episode of HomeTech: Join us for the 2021 edition of the Technology.fm Fireside chat! This year, we are joined again by two special guests, Richard Gunther from the Home: On podcast and the Smart Home Show, and Adam Justice, Founder and CEO at ConnectSense and Richard’s co-host on the Smart Home Show. We share our perspectives on the biggest connected home trends of 2021 and make some predictions about the year ahead. Don’t miss it!
This week on HomeTech, Sonos updates with DTS, politics targets tech in both the States and in the UK, Amazon launches inexpensive wifi lighting control, Ring looks up and down, and Lutron sends me a cool new toy to play with. All this and more on this week's HomeTech…
This week in HomeTech: Google is getting better at watching you sleep, Sonos is getting a voice "assistant," ADT goes solar, and a great pick of the week!
This week on HomeTech: A backlog of news! New Wyze gear is on the way, Samsung joins Team Matter, Ecobee sold to Generac, and Roku kicks off Youtube and porn … All this and, of course, a pic of the week!
This week on HomeTech: Ecobee gets Siri, Netgear gets 6E and Nuvo gets the boot… All this and, of course, a pic of the week!
This week on HomeTech: Summer is in the air and while there’s not much going in the home tech space Amazon has decided to help fill that void. New products and services, a drone, a robot dog, Home Depot, and more… All this and, of course, a pic of the week!
This week on HomeTech: Picking up the pieces and news stories for the past two weeks post-CEDIA, big moves in business, Sonos ups pricing on just about everything, “Input 0” coming from both Comcast and Amazon, and TWO NEW HUBS! All this and, of course, a pic of the week!
This week on HomeTech: We're kicking off with a big announcement about Tech Show Talk 2021 - a live event on Thursday, September 2nd that will bring industry peers from all around the world to discuss the news coming out of the CEDIA Expo. All of this and a fun pick of the week on this week's podcast.
This week on HomeTech: More vendors exiting from the CEDIA Expo, Sonos kind of wins over Google, and cool new products from SmartThings and Josh.ai. All of this and a fun pick of the week on this week's podcast.
This week on HomeTech: Major vendors start to cancel on CEDIA, Wyze is at it again, new TCL TV pricing, and is T-Mobile testing fiber? All of this and a fun pick of the week on this week's podcast.
This week on HomeTech: Vudu lives on, Snap One expands into a few more local markets, Google might be announcing new Nest kit soon, and IKEA shows off a new smart air filter. All of this and a fun pick of the week on this week's podcast.
This week on HomeTech: SNPO shares go on sale, at a discount, Alexa gains a killer new feature, and Seth goes off on a rant about the “wellness” trend. All of this and a fun pick of the week on this week's podcast.
This week on HomeTech: Ring adds end-to-end encryption, the security market has a security problem, and Nokia releases all-new smart lighting products powered by Insteon! All of this and a little bit more on this week's podcast.
This week on HomeTech: End of an era at Crestron, watching movies from home looks promising, and is the smart home worth it? All of this and a little bit more on this week's podcast.
This week on HomeTech: SnapAV is now Snap One plus a new S1 filing reveals the company plans a paid version of OVRC, the Onkyo deal is done, ADT sues Vivint, and are counterfeit products next in our future? All of this and a little bit more on this week's podcast.
This week on HomeTech: We're in the middle of the slow summer news cycle and managed to pluck out a few headlines about Sonos and IKEA, Ring, and SpaceX having worldwide coverage coming up in September. All of this and a little bit more on this week's podcast.
This week on HomeTech: Apple shows off a few new Home features at WWDC 2021, CEDIA opens up registration for EXPO 2021, HBO Max was broken and now fixed, and Sidewalk takes a hit in the press. All that and a great listner question in this weeks mailbag.
This week on HomeTech: We chat with Orro CEO and founder, Colin Billings about how he is using AI to make smart devices smarter. Orro is a unique smart dimmer that has built-in sensors and touchscreen interface that all fits within a decora-sized wall plate. It's also packed with third party integrations and the ability to learn how your lights should be set based on your habits. Some quick follow up about the Apple lossless audio launch, IKEA/Sonos picture frames are coming, and Control4 adds OVRC into every controller.
This week on HomeTech: Jason drops in to to say "hi" and chat about all the new offerings from OneVision, Amazon buys MGM, and Roku has its eyes on the smart home... All this and of course, the pick of the week.
This week on HomeTech: Two weeks of HomeTech Headlines! SnapAV is going public, the streaming wars intensify, Zigbee wants to Matter, and more... All this and of course, the pick of the week.
This week on HomeTech: New products are actually being announced, SnapAV buys more things, Onkyo is now owned by someone else as well, ISE cancels fun in 2021, and more... All this and of course, the pick of the week.
This week on HomeTech: More streaming news including a spat between Roku and Google, ADT sues Ring, Spotify is raising prices, and Denon & Marantz throw in the towel on fixing faulty receivers... All this and of course, the pick of the week.
This week on HomeTech: Apple's big event lands us with a new AppleTV and remote, Roku and Disney up their streaming game, is Amazon forcing Ecobee to fork over user data, and Nortek sells off Broan and Nutone... All this and of course, the pick of the week.
This week on HomeTech: It's officially over for Harmony, or is it? Samsung switches to OLED, Sony goes to Netflix, and Roku launches 3 new products and a whole new OS packed with new features... All this and of course, the pick of the week.
This week on Hometech: A quick recap of the week's news and a conversation about the death of the Logitech Harmony remote – even if Logitech doesn't want to admit it. It seems everyone in retail, distribution, and within Logitech knows the product line has been discontinued... so where's the announcement? All this and of course the pick of the week.
This week on Hometech: A quick recap of the week's news and a conversation about the death of the Logitech Harmony remote – even if Logitech doesn't want to admit it. It seems everyone in retail, distribution, and within Logitech knows the product line has been discontinued... so where's the announcement? All this and of course the pick of the week.
This week on Hometech: A quick recap of the week's news and a fast pick of the week. We also sit down with Jack MacDougall, CEO of Pixelgen, and Larry Pace, President of DarbeeVision, to talk about PXLVISION and how this new product aims to improve the picture on your TV.
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This week on HomeTech: The Original Apple Homepod is discontinued, Sonos audio in autos, Google wants to watch you sleep, and of course, the Pick of the Week...
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
Show Notes
HomeTech Headlines
Original HomePod Discontinued – 512 Pixels
Apple researching modular light switches to expand HomeKit | AppleInsider
Sonos partners with Audi to bring its audio tech to cars
Google's latest Nest Hub smart display detects motion to track your sleep | Engadget
With a new Nest Hub, Google wants an invite into your bedroom - Stacey on IoT | Internet of Things news and analysis
Pick of the Week
Zoom Escaper lets you sabotage your own meetings with audio problems, crying babies, and more
This week on HomeTech: News from Samsung about their 2021 TV lineup and plans for the future, Roku is watching you, 50% of homes have some type of smart tech, and of course, the Pick of the Week...
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
SHOW NOTES
HomeTech Headlines
Roku buys Nielsen tech to better target ads on traditional TV | Engadget
50% of US Households Now Own Smart Devices - CEPRO
Legrand Teams with Home Builder Taylor Morrison Home - CEPRO
C Seed Introduces Foldable 4K 165-inch M1 MicroLED TV - CEPRO
Samsung Announces Enhancements to TV Line - Residential Systems
Samsung The Sero smartphone-friendly TV is finally available to buy
Pick of the Week
Crestron Electronics, Inc.
This week on HomeTech: a new format for the show that "could" be exciting, a quick discussion on advertisments in IoT products, three new products announced (finally) in HomeTech Headlines, and a space nerd Pick of the Week...
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Show Notes
HomeTech HeadlinesRing’s Video Doorbell Pro 2 has built-in radar | EngadgetFormer Pakedge Founders Take Aim at Cloud-based Lighting, UPS with PoEWit - CEPROSpotify Hi-Fi Ups Streaming Quality Ante, But Is It Worth It? - CEPROAlexa, stop spamming me. Hey Google, you too. - Stacey on IoT | Internet of Things news and analysis
Pick of the WeekPerseverance Rover’s Descent and Touchdown on Mars (Official NASA Video)
On this episode of HomeTech: While Jason travels Seth takes the reins of the sleigh and drives the podcast into the next decade. Big news stories about internet outrage over recycling, Ring getting hit with a lawsuit over their security practices, a cool new idea to charge devices remotely and more…
On this very special episode of HomeTech: Join us as we look back on the biggest smart home stories of 2019 on our fifth annual Fireside Chat! We are joined by both Richard Gunther and Adam Justice of the Digital Media Zone’s Home:On Podcast.
This jam-packed episode will provide you with a comprehensive look back at all the trends that defined the connected home this year, including predictions about what 2020 will bring. Don’t miss it!
On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Bronson Gannon, Global Brand Manager for Sound United’s Polk Audio. Our discussion covers the company’s new Legend line of speakers. We also dive into many of the fundamentals of speaker design, providing information all of us can use in order to make more educated buying decisions.
That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: Cyber Monday 2019 shatters records. Plex launches their ad-supported TV streaming service. Sony updates TVs to support AirPlay 2 and HomeKit. The FBI warns consumers about the cybersecurity risks of smart TVs. Wyze undercuts the competition once again with their $89 smart lock. Best Buy hits an impressive 2M+ subscribers to their Total Tech Support membership. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Now that you’ve recovered from your Thanksgiving food coma, we are joined by Kevin Brown, CEO and Co-founder of Innit. Innit is a leading platform for the connected kitchen. Acting as a unifying layer designed to simplify and enhance the home cooking experience, Innit works with a diverse set of industry partners including appliance makers, retailers, tech giants, and large food distributors. Tune in to learn more about their novel and comprehensive approach to the rapidly expanding connected kitchen market.
That plus our annual Black Friday roundup. Join us to discover some of the best and most unique connected home deals available this holiday season!
On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Charlie Kindel, SnapAV’s Chief Product Officer, and G. Paul Hess, SnapAV’s Chief Marketing Officer, to catch up on what has been a very busy year for the company. Our conversation covers the latest on the Control4 merger, the new NEEO remote, the latest on the OvrC remote management platform, Control4’s upcoming C4Yourself event, and much more. Don’t miss it!
Plus the latest home tech headlines including: Netflix explains why certain older streaming devices will no longer be supported. Disney+ comes out of the gate swinging. Hikvision launches the most racist product feature of all time. Amazon patches a vulnerability found in Ring doorbells. and more.
On this episode of HomeTech: Tune in to learn all about the hottest new device in connected home security—the HomeTech Assistant Security Shield (ASS)™. Your worse fears have been realized. Hackers are taking to the streets armed with lasers capable of unleashing mayhem on your smart speaker. You feel vulnerable. Helpless. Ready to throw in the towel on your smart home dreams. But fret not. The HomeTech Assistant Security shield leverages Advanced Impenetrable Reflective Technology (AIRT)™ to keep you and your family safe. It’s security, at the speed of light. Tune in to learn more!
That, plus the latest home tech headlines, including: Initial thoughts on Apple TV+. Insignia smart products are smart no more. Walmart reportedly looking to put Vudu on the selling block. Google buys Fitbit for $2.1B. Lutron dismisses lawsuit against Savant. Control4 launches new NEEO remote. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Brad Russel, Parks Associates’ Research Director, Connected Home. A leading market research and consulting company, Parks Associates is a go-to resource for anyone looking for a data-driven understanding of the smart home market. Our conversation with Brad covers the current state of the industry along with the “cheers and fears” driving connected home adoption. Don’t miss it!
That, plus a very busy week in home tech news including: Is Wink in its death throes? Apple pulls a HomePod update after reports of bricked devices. Sonos launches a trade-in program. Playstation Vue is shutting down. More details emerge regarding HBO’s forthcoming streaming service, HBO Max. The Apple TV app is officially available on Amazon Fire TV devices. Reports that Apple is ramping up its HomeKit efforts. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Researchers have found a way to extend WiFi (sort of) up to 200 ft. SpaceX plans to launch satellite-based low latency broadband service in 2020. Google Home update bricks some units. Homebuilders are ditching Nest. Voice assistants introduce a new kind of phishing attack. Best Buy takes on Amazon with free next-day deliveries for the holidays. Ikea’s long-awaited smart blinds are finally available in parts of the U.S. An interesting debate over Google’s decision to leave WiFi6 out of Google Nest WiFi. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: We take a deep dive into the numerous smart home announcements unveiled by Google during their recent Pixel event. Plus the latest home tech headlines including: US blacklists several major Chinese surveillance companies. Apple’s HomeKit Secure Video nears launch. Apple adds an option to delete Siri's history. Disney+ unveils its content lineup ahead of its November 12th launch. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: YouTube TV is finally available on Fire TV devices. A feud between Dish and Fox leaves sports fans in the cold. Next-gen ISP bundles may include various streaming services. The future of DirecTV’s “Sunday Ticket” package may be in question. Google follows Amazon’s lead, adding the deletion of Assistant command history. More delays on Ikea’s forthcoming smart blinds. Vivint is slowly moving forward with 5G internet service. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Join us on this jam-packed edition as we wrap up another big CEDIA show! Our discussion includes some of the biggest trends and technologies we observed on the floor, plus a few cool product-finds you won’t want to miss!
That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: The end of an era as Interlogix prepares to shut down at the end of 2019. AT&T refutes rumors that DirecTV is on the selling block. News emerges on NBC’s forthcoming streaming service, Peacock. An interesting (if pricey) new gadget from Hue. An in-depth review of Amazon’s massive hardware event. And more!
On this episode of HomeTech: We take a break from working the big show to chat about a few quick observations we had at CEDIA 2019. We’ll be back next with with a wrap up and bigger conversation about the rest of our CEDIA experience.
On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Giles Sutton, CEDIA’s VP of Industry Engagement, to get his take on the upcoming EXPO in Denver! Giles shares several exciting updates surrounding the big event. Additionally, we dive into some of the organization’s latest initiatives including a promising new workforce development program and increased outreach to the design and specification community. Don’t miss this one!
That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: Rumors of a new Apple TV to be unveiled next week. The 8K Association has released key performance attributes for this (daunting) new spec. RoomMe’s “room-level personalization” sensors make their debut to the CI channel. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Crestron OS 3 officially launches. Lutron sues Savant over Palladiom knock-off (err… competitor). Details emerge on Google’s forthcoming Nest Mini. A new initiative from the UHD alliance takes aim at the dreaded soap opera effect. Disney+ offers a killer limited-time pre-order deal. Is the Bravas roll-up the sign of a new era in integration, or Via part 2? And much more…
On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Justin Berghoff, Leviton’s Director of Business Development & Product Management. Justin joins us to discuss the company’s Smart Load Center product line. A part of our homes so fundamental that most of us take it for granted, the breaker box was overdue for an intelligent upgrade. Join us to learn how Leviton’s product line is finally bringing circuit breakers into the 21st century.
That plus… Apple is reportedly targeting a November launch for Apple TV+. Ikea doubles down on their smart home strategy with the creation of a dedicated business unit. Amazon’s launches Custom Interfaces for Alexa to enhance connections with games and gadgets. Samsung’s about-face pivot to OLED displays. And much more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Can’t-miss CEDIA courses. A “save-the-date” for our CEDIA HomeTech happy hour. CBS and Viacom agree to a $30 billion merger. Is a portable speaker from Sonos finally in the offing? Cortana is getting kicked out of its own thermostat. A review of SnapAV’s new ultra-compact, WiFi WattBox. A new pro-focused Logitech remote. The TV Fairy visits residents of Virginia. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Jason and Seth are both back to discuss this week’s news in Home Technology
On this episode of HomeTech: SnapAV and Control4 complete their merger, Locast lawsuits get started, AT&T rebrands something, and Seth takes a swing at recording a solo show and writing show notes while Jason is out of town… can you tell?
On this episode of HomeTech: SnapAV continues to gobble up distributors, acquiring north west-based Custom Plus. Are rumors of HAI’s demise greatly exaggerated? Prime Day topples records. Amazon Music Unlimited growth rate is outpacing its competitors. Hulu quietly brings back 4k. CEDIA names Mitch Klein its Lifetime Award Winner. Five key questions about the forthcoming HBO Max streaming service. And much more…
On this episode of HomeTech: IKEA saves American podcasters from the embarrassment of trying to pronounce Trádfri by rebranding the line to “Home Smart”. Prime Video finally works on Chromecast and Android TV. Wyze adds AI-powered people detection to their cameras. Arlo cameras go on fire-sale pricing. Hulu adds a new “yada yada yada” shuffle button for Seinfeld episodes. Details on AT&T’s forthcoming streaming service, HBO Max. Will Apple’s culture help or hurt their TV+ efforts? And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Massive hacks and data breaches expose 2 billion home automation records, Alexa will never delete those secrets you told her, Bixby really wants to be a thing, Roku dominates and Netflix starts to pinch pennies in anticipation of more competition. We have a big discussion on how voice isn’t the next big platform we all anticipated it to be and Seth tells everyone how he really feels about his Echo. Spoiler alert: The Echo is out.
On this episode of HomeTech: FCC filings reveal a new TiVo Edge DVR. Dish unveils a new internet and live-streaming bundle aimed at apartment dwellers. Screamin’ display deals unveiled ahead of Prime Day. A new deal brings Amazon Music to Comcast subscribers. SnapAV unveils new Araknis WAPs. A new entrant to Li-Fi category, but will this technology ever take off? The most tedious factory-reset sequence of all time. And much more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Join us for a very special installment of the “Projects Project”! We are pleased to welcome Matthew G, who Reddit users might better recognize as VMU_kiss. Matthew, who is a moderator on the popular r/homeautomation subreddit, shares his creative process for coming up with some of the most unique DIY smart home hacks we’ve ever seen! From an umbrella holder that lights up when it’s going to rain, to a toothbrush holder that automatically triggers a timer, and much, much more, Matthew’s ideas are sure to inspire you to inject a little more creativity into your next DIY project. And the coolest part? Matthew has done it all using inexpensive, off-the-shelf parts (combined with a little elbow grease and a whole lot of ingenuity). Don’t miss this one!
On this episode of HomeTech: Jason takes a rare solo flight as Seth enjoys hard-earned vacation. He dives into the latest home tech headlines including: A look at Crestron’s expanded DM Lite product being shown at InfoComm. CEDIA Expo 2019 extends early bird registration deadline. CEDIA Unveils Home Technology Professional Award Finalists. AT&T's DirecTV reportedly considering a merger with Dish satellite. AT&T's streaming bundle with HBO could start at $16. Amazon offers some good Father’s Day deals on Ring hardware. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: WWDC 2019 is in the books and Apple wildly exceeded our (admittedly low) expectations. Tune in as we dissect all of the biggest stories from the event. We discuss HomeKit’s new Secure Video offering, HomeKit-enabled routers, significant updates to the Home App, new HomePod functionality, and much more. You don’t want to miss this one!
That plus the latest home tech headlines including: AT&T set to launch a new IP- based version of the full DirecTV product. SnapAV’s plan to begin distributing Yamaha products, complete with “deep” OvrC integration. Ecobee officially unveils its newest smart thermostat. Ikea’s new physical remote for Symfonisk and Sonos speakers. And more…
PS - if you’re a fan of the show and a home tech pro, check out the new “Reimagining Service” webinar series from OneVision Resources
On this episode of HomeTech: We welcome Chris Carney, CEO and co-founder of abode systems, onto the show. Chris joins us to discuss abode’s robust and highly customer-centric approach to DIY home security. We cover everything from abode’s flexible pricing options and smart home integrations, to the exploding popularity of DIY security and the challenges faced by consumers in today’s evolving connected home market. Don’t miss it!
That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: Control4 lifts the veil on their new OS3 software. New insights from Best Buy on their Total Tech Support program. Hubitat introduces a mobile app. Amazon expands its Alexa Announcements capabilities. A new ecobee thermostat rumored to be coming very soon. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: We explore the current state of remote systems management (RSM). Not long ago, four major players existed in the market—BakPak (Control4), Domotz, Ihiji, and OvrC (SnapAV). Control4, who acquired Ihiji back in 2018, has now merged with SnapAV, potentially bringing a market of four RSM platforms down to two. What will this consolidation mean for the future of remote tech support? What can be done to take this category to the next level? Tune in to get our take.
That plus the latest headlines including: Lutron announces a clever new product to work with Hue lighting. Savant rolls out HomeKit support ahead of LightFair. Samsung reportedly working on a smaller Galaxy Home. The U.S. might blacklist China’s Hikvision (and why this is a big freakin’ deal). Marantz and Denon roll out new receivers with built-in RSM software. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Guest co-host Richard Guther joins Seth and discusses the weeks news including the Control4/SnapAV merger, Alexa getting a new Guard feature to watch your home, and some interesting news about a few other voice control assistants not named Alexa.
On this episode of HomeTech: We take a deep dive into Alphabet’s decision to bring Google Home, Nest, Chromecast, and Google WiFi all under a new unified brand, Google Nest. Additionally, we discuss the controversial decision made as part of this merger to kill off the Works with Nest program, bringing an end to many popular third-party integrations. What do these moves mean for the company, consumers, and for home tech pros alike?
That, plus: Echo and Google Home Mother’s Day deals. Amazon and Blink team up to launch a new wireless outdoor security camera. A first look at the AirPlay 2 and HomeKit integrations on new Vizio TVs. A look at the new Nest Hub Max 10-inch smart display. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: The CE Pro 100 list for 2019 is out. A look at Savant’s new architectural POE speakers. Wyze releases their new (insanely cheap) Wyze Sense kit. Amazon may be working on a new hi-fidelity streaming service. A team at Harvard thinks they know how the streaming TV war will be won. The once-hot robotics startup, Anki, has crashed and burned. August halts sales of their new View doorbell camera after widely reported issues by early users. UniFi’s interesting new Dream Machine merges pro features with a consumer aesthetic. Is Congress finally getting serious about IoT security?
And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Jason goes solo to cover the week’s news and a Projects Project interview with long time listener and supporter of the show Anthony Raynor.
On this episode of HomeTech: SnapAV throws their hat in the security ring. Who is Logitech’s new remote really for? Amazon rumored to be working on a new free streaming music service. People are listening to your Alexa recordings (PS - it doesn’t matter). Plus, we take a deep dive into Disney’s new streaming video service, Disney+.
And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Popular automation app, Stringify, announces imminent shutdown. Is the Wink Hub on life support? The truth behind Amazon’s Eero acquisition. YouTube TV becomes the latest streaming service to hike prices. T-Mobile launches TVision cable TV offering. The IKEA-Sonos speaker-lamp lovechild. First-run movies now streaming in the home (if you can afford it). Netflix abruptly kills AirPlay. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Google accidentally leaks the forthcoming Nest Hub Max smart display. Resideo acquires water monitoring solution provider Buoy Labs. YouTube TV hits a major milestone in an unexpected place. FuboTV becomes the latest OTT provider to raise prices. HDHomeRun shows us how not to launch a streaming service. Lowes Iris code released as an open source project called “Arcus.” And much more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Join us as we dissect Apple’s long-awaited streaming TV service, Apple TV+, as well as their updated Apple TV app and new “Channels” feature.
That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: New streaming subscriptions overtook cable in 2018. Comcast launches a $5 streaming aggregation service for those who kinda-sorta want to cut the cord. YouTube rumored to be bowing out of the “Hollywood arms race”. Dish enhances its Custom Integration program with a new RMR offering. And more…
On this very special 250th episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Control4’s CEO, Martin Plaehn. As the CEO of one of the largest companies in the professional channel and the only “pure play” publicly traded smart home company, Martin brings a very unique perspective to the show. We discuss Martin’s take on the evolving smart home landscape, Control4’s recent hiring of Charlie Kindel and acquisition of NEEO, the company’s ongoing expansion into new markets and categories, their steadfast commitment to the professional channel, and more. You don’t want to miss this one!
That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: SnapAV acquires northeast distributor, MRI. LG partners with JoshAI. IKEA delays shipment of their new smart blinds. Apple’s long-awaited streaming service is almost upon us. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Guest co-host Cody Crossland joins the show to chat about Apple Music becoming more ubiquitous, how crime does in fact pay, how your TVs really can’t wait to spy on you, heading to the theater from the comfort of your own bathroom, and much more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Amazon pulls the plug on Dash Buttons. Thoughts on Apple’s quietly-acquired patents from failed smart home startup, Lighthouse AI. Lutron’s fan switch with HomeKit now shipping. Cable providers are getting pummeled, but do they really care? What can we glean from the early success of Best Buy’s Total Tech Support memberships? Do social robots go to heaven? And much more…
On this episode of HomeTech: the latest home tech headlines including: A look at SnapAV’s new partnership with Clare Controls and Alula. The Home Technology Association ends their first year on a high note. Sony releases pricing on their new premium TVs. Charter to release a new $15/month channel package. Cord cutting hits another record high. Speculation on how Apple is aiming to disrupt television. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Tony Ostrom, President of the WiSA Association. Tony shares everything you need to know about this exciting standard for high-definition, ultra-low latency, multichannel, wireless audio. Designed specifically for high-performance theater and media room applications, WiSA may be the answer you’ve been looking for to simplify your next surround sound setup.
That plus the latest home tech headlines including: A new Savant integration from JoshAI. Samsung’s Galaxy Home speaker may arrive by April (Bixby sighting!) Samsung existing the Blu-ray business? Leviton brings app control to your circuit breakers. Google and Amazon getting greedy with the data. Nest’s undisclosed microphone gaffe. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Giles Sutton, CEDIA’s SVP of Industry Engagement. We discuss the organization’s new “Member of Excellence” program, their sharpened focus on increasing awareness within the design and building communities, new efforts in workforce development, observations from ISE 2019, and much more!
That plus the latest home tech headlines including: Why Amazon acquired Eero. Details on Samsung’s new 2019 QLED lineup. Do we finally have a date for Apple’s new streaming service? Arlo pulls its new Ultra model from the shelves after a slew of performance problems. Crestron and Savant show off their new 2-way Apple TV integrations. Control4 expands its international presence. And more…
On this episode of HomeTech: We discuss Control4’s recent acquisition of NEEO including what’s in it for both companies, the end of the road for the DIY product, and what else the future may hold.
That plus the latest headlines including: Nest, Justin Bieber, and the case for unique passwords. UltraViolet’s inevitable demise is upon us. Aereo got sued out of existence but Locast won’t let that deter them. JoshAI’s sleek new multizone control arrives. Roku in talks to add AirPlay 2 support. And much more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Kick off your Super Bowl weekend us as we cover the latest headlines in the smart home including: Sonos lowers prices and announces new accessories. More news surfaces about AT&T’s forthcoming streaming service. DirecTV Now drops 267,000 subscribers as promotional pricing ends. Roku enables premium subscriptions through it’s Roku Channel. Samsung’s new 8K chip and the end of ugly bezels. Crestron rebrands Pyng technology to “Crestron Home”. A peek inside OneVision’s service model. And much more!
On this episode of HomeTech: Seth and Jason sit down to discuss the latest home tech headlines including: Abode adds HomeKit to its new hub. Atlona gets acquired by Panduit. YouTube TV now available nationwide. Walmart pulls the plug on its rumored streaming service. Hulu drops price on its base streaming service but raises the price of its live offering. And does Netflix’s latest price increase herald the end of streaming’s golden age? Or just the beginning?
On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Adam Justice, CEO and Founder of ConnectSense. We discuss the company’s new Smart Outlet 2, as well as how ConnectSense helps other product manufacturers and OEMs implement their own connected solutions. Adam also shares his perspectives on developing products for all of the major DIY platforms (Alexa, HomeKit, and Google), as well as some of his takeaways from CES 2019.
That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: how to turn any speaker into an Alexa speaker, a new partnership between Sonos and IKEA, NBC to launch a new streaming service, a truly novel approach to privacy in the connected home, and much more…
On this episode of HomeTech: Join us as we discuss all the biggest stories from CES 2019! This year’s event was jam-packed with big releases and emerging trends from across the world of home technology. We’ve combed through all the biggest stories so you don’t have to. Don’t miss this special episode!
On this episode of HomeTech: Seth and guest co-host Cody Crossland chat about the week’s sparse headlines and chat about the technology in Cody’s new home. Cody also needs help figuring out where to install a TV in his Family Room. Submit your ideas through our feedback form or by emailing feedback at hometech.fm. There’s a picture at the bottom of the show notes.
On this very special episode of HomeTech: Join us as we look back on the biggest smart home stories of 2018 on our fourth annual “Fireside Chat”! As in year’s past, we are joined by Mike Wolf, founder of the Smart Kitchen Summit and publisher of The Spoon, and Richard Gunther, host of the Digital Media Zone’s Home:On Podcast. This year, we are also joined for the first time by Rose Thibodeaux, founder of the excellent smart-home product review YouTube channel, “It’s Rose”, and author at the Home Alarm Report.
This jam-packed episode will provide you with a comprehensive look back at all the trends that defined the connected home this year, including predictions about what 2019 will bring. Don’t miss it!
On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by James Ratcliffe, owner of Homeplay, for a special edition of our “Projects Project”. A custom integration company based in the UK, Homeplay just wrapped up construction on a stunning new showroom. James join us to discuss their beautiful new facility which features the latest in high-end home technology solutions. Tune in to hear about this unique and challenging project!
On this week’s episode of HomeTech: the latest home tech headlines plus our annual Black Friday roundup! There are great some really great deals on home tech this year. Don’t waste your time scouring the internet. We’ve done the hard work for you!
On this week’s episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Ashish Aggarwal, Co-Founder of Caavo. Ashish discusses the company’s novel approach to simplifying the TV-viewing experience. Caavo is an innovative and affordable product which solves a growing challenge for viewers today—the cumbersome and complicated experience of accessing content across multiple apps and disparate devices. Tune in to learn more!
On this week’s episode of HomeTech: The Dish Network-HBO feud that hurts no one but consumers. Did you catch the first-even National #SmartHomeDay? Samsung opens Bixby to third-party developers. Sonos delays their Google Assistant integration. Ring pushes some significant app updates. Great 5G commentary from the HomeTech mailbag. And much more!
On this week’s episode of HomeTech: We wrap-up the biggest stories from Apple’s hardware event, share what’s on our current streaming watch list, ponder the oft-forgotten value of hardwired connections, discuss useless voice control capabilities, dispel some of the 5G-hype, and more…
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week’s episode of HomeTech: We say goodbye to the Alexa buzzer. Streaming TV services on pace to grab 25% of the market by 2022. Google Play lowers the price of 4K content and offers free upgrades. Amazon participates in a $50 million funding round for German smart thermostat maker Tado. Netflix to raise a staggering $2 in debt to fund original content and more. Apple’s long-awaited streaming TV subscription service rumored to be launching soon in more than 100 countries. And much more…
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Amazon plugs a big hole in Echo’s whole-house audio function. SimpliSafe releases a new doorbell cam. An interesting new B8ta-Google partnership. Is Mark Gurman’s startup, Essential Products, on the ropes? More great numbers from Netflix but are they invincible? And much more…
On this week’s episode of HomeTech: The latest in home tech headlines including Google’s big October announcements, and a “non-hyperbolic” question gets definitively answered: “Is RSM Dead?”
On this week’s episode of HomeTech: The latest in home tech headlines including;
Speculation on Google’s big press event on Oct 9th
The world’s most embarrassing new-product leak, courtesy of Best Buy
SiriusXM acquires Pandora
Comcast acquires Sky
Roku unveils a $40 4k streaming device
WiFi (finally) adopts version numbers
Samsung reveals pricing on their 85” 8K display
Thoughts on Amazon’s new Alexa Connect Kit
A new and very compelling device from Caavo
And more…
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week’s episode of HomeTech: Join as we discuss a busy week in home tech headlines including:
Leaked images of the new Google Home Hub
Hulu bolsters their live TV lineup
Plex shuts down its cloud service
tvOS12 brings Dolby Atmos and more to Apple TV
Apple’s HomePod gets voice calling features
And Amazon flexes their muscles with a massive new product release event
On this week’s episode of HomeTech: Our annual, super-sized CEDIA wrap-up special! This year, we are joined by Richard Gunther of the Digital Media Zone’s Home:On podcast and Matt Scott from AV Nation’s ResiWeek for a very special episode! Join us as we take a deep dive into all of this year’s most important show takeaways. This is one you don’t want to miss!
We catch up on the CEDIA show floor for a quick show on what we've seen this year at the CEDIA Expo. Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Join us as we discuss the most important trends and technologies you should be looking for at CEDIA 2018 in San Diego, including:
The DIY/Pro convergence
The latest at "Innovation Alley"
New business opportunities for home tech pros
The voice control/AI landscape
TV technology
Audio and video
Luxury tech
What the big control players are up to
And much more...
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: the week's biggest home tech headlines, including:
Netflix finalizes their purge of user reviews
Netflix testing ads for binge-watchers
New and surprising stats on streaming-TV adoption...
Apple gaining a (small but important) foothold in the smart speaker market
IKEA expands Tradfri line to include a $10 smart plug
Amazon is working on a local DVR "bolt on" for Fire-TV
Connected camera replays are coming to select Echo, Fire devices
Cortana and Alexa can now play nice
CE Pro gets acquired by Emerald Expositions
A fantastic look at the professionally-connected smart home
And much more...
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Jason shares his (successful) covert mission to get himself a new iPhone X. Plus, the latest home tech headlines including:
SmartThings and Plume partner up for a new mesh WiFi/smart home solution
Samsung announces their new Bixby-powered Galaxy Home smart speaker
Fibraro launches an aggressive new North American installer training program
Marantz rolls out new AirPlay2 receivers
A new smart device to ensure you never run out of coffee
Crestron hacks
Smart home security tips
And much more...
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Gabe Halimi, CEO and co-founder of Flo. An intelligent leak detection and water shutoff system, Flo takes water-damage protection to the next level. Tune in to hear how Flo's proactive approach to water monitoring can increase your water-use efficiency and protect your home from one of the most common causes of catastrophic damage.
That, plus the latest home tech headlines including:
Apple gets into the clothing business...errr... Thread Group
Sonos offers Seth an (unsatisfactory) explanation of their AirPlay 2 stance
Sci-Fi fans can now get their own voice-enabled HAL-9000 replica
Who killed the cable bundle?
And more...
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Joel Sellinger, co-founder of LifeDoor, for an installment of our startup showcase series. LifeDoor is compact device that automatically closes interior doors in your home in the event of a fire — a measure that could mean the difference between life and death.
That, plus the latest home tech headlines including:
Best Buy pulls the plug on Vivint
Marwan Fawaz is out as CEO at Nest
Another healthy earnings report from Control4
Control4's releases their new "Intercom Anywhere" app
Apple removes smart doorbells category from their roster of HomeKit devices
Sony releases a new flagship LED and OLED
Dolby Atmos comes to Apple TV (sort of)
SnapAV releases their new Moist...errr MoIP video distribution system
Fibraro gets acquired by Nice Group
And more...
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We share our thoughts on the recently announced Sonos IPO, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities ahead for the one time undisputed king of streaming audio in the home. That, plus the latest home tech headlines, including...
BeON Home closes its doors
Netflix kills user reviews, begins testing a higher-priced "Ultra" tier, and prepares to spend a whopping $13 billion on original content
Samsung announces new range of 8K TVs (no, that's not a typo)
AirPlay2 is now available on Sonos
And more...
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We get together on the holiday week to catch up the latest. Jason has been shamed out of inaction on his slow quest to cut the cord. Seth has a bone to pick with the state of streaming media. A nod to the UK-based football (errr... soccer) fans in the audience. 4th of July festivities. And, oh yeah, what little news we could pull from the summer doldrums...
A close look at Honeywell's new Smart Home security system
AT&T's WatchTV is a new ultra-low priced streaming service
SimpliSafe sells a majority stake to SnapAV's parent company, Hellman & Friedman LLC
Apple mulling an all-in-one media subscription plan
Price hikes for DirecTV Now, PlayStation Vue and SlingTV
Netflix now the No.1 choice for TV viewing
And a look at Samsung's next-gen frame TV's
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Joe Albian, a supporter of the show who shares his handy work on the latest installment of the "Projects Project". Joe hired professional help for portions of the home including wiring and landscape audio but has also done a great deal of professional-caliber work on his own. The results are a clean and robust installation with a few custom touches you won't want to miss (including one of the nicest AV head ends we've seen on the show)!
That plus...
WiFi's tougher WPA3 encryption is now available
HDR10+ could provide stiff competition for Dolby Vision
Strong evidence of a pending Sonos-HomeKit partnership... a HomeTech exclusive :)
and more...
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Jason and Seth take a deep dive into Plex, a market-leading media server solution. From exploring the Plex's origins as an answer to XBMC for Mac users to its rapidly expanding functionality as a live TV DVR solution with Plex Pass, this solution has clearly come a long way. For anyone considering alternatives for locally-stored, streaming, or live TV, this episode is a can't miss.
That plus...
LifeDoor, a Kickstarter project that could save lives
TP-Link's new mesh router can also control smart home devices
Amazon's new delivery service, Hub, aims at apartment dwellers
Vivint launches new Google Home integrations
Thoughts on Amazon's new Fire TV Cube
And much more...
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech Jason sits down to talk with Eric Hanes about the trials and tribulations it took to complete his home's technology and Atmos theater.
On this week's episode of HomeTech Adam Justice joins the show to review Apple's WWDC keynote and chat about what, if any, exciting HomeKit news came out of the conference.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Alex Capecelatro, CEO and co-founder of Josh.ai, to discuss the latest at both his company and in the world of AI as a whole. Alex introduces us to Josh Micro, their newest product. Way more than a microphone, this powerful little device packs processing, sensors, capacitive touch control, and more into a compact form factor. Even better, Josh Micro brings the company's uniquely powerful voice control and home automation platform to new, more affordable price points. Alex also shares his unique perspective on the latest happenings in the fast-moving world of voice control and AI.
That, plus...
The FBI wants you to reboot your router
Netgear wants you to change your password
iOS 11.4 finally brings AirPlay2 into the wild
WyzeCam puts out a $30 PTZ camera
D-Link's new cameras offer PTZ and 3rd-party integration
Google Home outpaces Amazon Echo for the first time in 2018 Q1
Pandora's launches a new Premium Family Plan
Verizon scraps their oft-delayed streaming video service plans
A HomeKit accessory to make your garden hose smart
And more...
Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech:
In light of their pending IPO, Sonos decides to bury the hatchet with HEOS,,, and lay off 96 employees
Insurance companies are hot under the collar for the smart home
Comcast gets in the mesh WiFi game
Someone is kickstarting smart Tupperware (as if you needed it)
A nifty new app to scan for BlueTooth signal strength
Amazon is quietly taking over the subscription video sales business
Best Buy's new "Total Tech Support" offering might be perfect for your parents.
And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Settling the all-important "Laurel vs Yanni" debate. Plus...
More hints emerge about Apple's video subscription plans
A new standard to make mesh WiFi systems play nice with each other. Will it work?
Yelp is for smart homes, not just for restaurants
Several major updates from DirecTV Now
Rumors that Microsoft will build their own Cortana smart speaker
Xiaomi unveils Google Assistant support
Your ex might be watching your Ring doorbell feed
Amazon rolls out "experience centers" in Lennar model homes
TiVo exits the hardware business
Puls wants to hang your next TV for dirt cheap
And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Join us as we dissect Google IO 2018. In a very strong showing for the company, this year's conference featured numerous announcements that home tech enthusiasts everywhere should be excited about.
That, plus...
Netgear releases a nice addition to their Orbi lineup
Ring's new neighborhood safety app
Proof from Hisense that feature-rich 4K TVs are now a commodity
More intriguing clues about Sonos' new soundbar
Alexa and Cortana join forces
Facebook sets its sights on an overseas smart speaker launch
Control4 makes a big bet on local showrooms
Beer kegs get smart
And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: After a rare week off, we catch up on a busy couple of weeks in smart home news. Dominated mostly by Amazon and Sonos, this week's stories include:
Apple kills off the Airport line
Sonos files for an IPO valuing the company at $3 billion
Sonos' newer speakers will support AirPlay2 (and Seth is still pissed)
The latest on Sonos rumored new soundbar
Amazon noses into the security installation business
Alexa gets a memory
Alexa will now teach your kids some manners
A huge talent departure for Alexa's smart home efforts
Honeywell revamps their security offerings
And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Patrick Stuart of Hubitat for our first-ever installment of the "Startup Showcase". With a unique focus on removing cloud-dependence, and the inherent privacy and reliability issues that come with it, Hubitat is bringing a refreshingly "local" approach to making your home smarter. Smart home enthusiasts won't want to miss this one...
That, plus the latest home technology headlines including:
Comcast and Netflix offer a new bundle deal
Hulu's steep (limited time) discount on its HBO add-on
ESPN+ released for cord-cutting sports fans
Lutron acquires Ketra
Google brings DIY to AI
Netflix Q1 report shows the company is red hot
Budget TV streaming app Philo making a name for itself
Amazon and Best Buy playing nicely
What supply chain reports say about HomePod sales
And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Jason's voice comes back from the dead. A defense of physical media from the HomeTech mailbag. A pic-of-the-week scandal revealed! Jason's TV purchase debate continues. Plus, the latest home technology headlines, including:
Spotify and Hulu team up with a new bundle
A beefed-up free tier is coming from Spotify
Amazon Key is going nationwide
.... and adding support for more smart locks
Sonos mulling an IPO
Amazon disrupts the red-hot intercom market
Drink a beer while a robot mows your lawn
SimpliSafe and August Smart Locks now work together
Cox gets into the Home Automation game
And more...
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projects project. Keith, who is blind as a result of retinitis pigmentosa, shares his unique perspective on the smart home. From the challenges he has faced to the ways that technology assists him with his day-to-day life, Keith's resourcefulness and ingenuity will serve as an inspiration to anyone with a passion for home technology.
That, plus...
Facebook decides now is probably not the best time to release a connected speaker
Amazon expands Alexa's video API to control DVRs
Alexa routines can now launch music and podcasts
A new and compelling hardware offering from Tablo
A big AI hire for Apple
Google hints at plans for their own smart display device a la the Echo Show
Lutron and SnapAV partner up
Oppo exits the BluRay business
and more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Several major TV manufacturers just released pricing and ship dates on their 2018 displays. As it happens, Jason is in the market for a new TV. Join as we break down the different offerings and discuss the pros and cons of the technology behind them.
That plus...
August smart locks now work with HomePod
A slick new way to set up scenes from the team at JoshAI
We ring the hub bell in reverse for Leviton's new integration with Nest
Foxconn purchases Belkin for a load of cash
A new universal search feature for Google Play
Apple's original content rumored to be launching in the spring of next year
Google Home can now play through other Bluetooth speakers
OneVision unveils a new live-streaming video app
And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech:
Siri's journey has never been a smooth one.
Alexa might be getting a little less wordy.
Nest launches a remote temp sensor.
Is Spotify inching closer to the smart-speaker game?
A new and improved Rachio.
IBM's Watson takes aim at the smart home.
More proof, if you needed it, that changing your passwords is a good thing.
And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Alexa acting like a creeper. Samsung's 2018 QLEDs put Bixby and SmartThings in the spotlight. An outdoor range for Philips Hue. A very, very good week for ecobee. The Apple-rumor-mill kicks into gear over a lower-priced HomePod. Some surprising follow-ups on last week's Mesh WiFi show. And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Jason is in the market for a new WiFi system and he's been doing his research. Join us as we dissect the mesh WiFi landscape, discuss the different features you might consider if you're in the market, and directly compare some of today's top options including Eero, Google WiFI, Netgear's Orbi, Ubiquiti AmpliFi, and many more.
That plus the latest headlines including: LG's premium 2018 OLEDs hit the market at compelling price points. Spotify's IPO is official and they're seeking some serious cash. The voice assistant-powered display market gets another entrant with the Archos Hello. Apple continues to pillage Sony's ranks as part of their fledgling online video efforts. And the battle between Amazon and Google heats up, as always, at the expense of the consumer.
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Gavin Campbell, a member of the HomeTech community and DIY smart home enthusiast, for another installment of the Projects Project. Gavin shares many of the tips and tricks he has used to super charge his SmartThings-based home. Tune in to learn how Gavin has created a highly-sophisticated smart home using inexpensive, DIY products (and a whole lot of elbow grease).
That plus... Google Assistant "Routines" will be available this spring. Can Xiaomi get Microsoft's smart speaker efforts on track? Samsung's long-awaited Bixby may finally arrive later this year. Rumors (emphasis on "rumors") emerge about smart speakers from Facebook. RIP Staples Connect. And Ring hits a massive pay day with its acquisition by Amazon.
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On this week's very special edition of HomeTech: Join us as we celebrate episode 200! Replete with brand new show music, we take advantage of this special occasion to introduce some new and exciting plans for the podcast. We also take a look back into the archives and discuss a handful of our favorite episodes from the past. Don't miss this!
And, of course, the latest home tech headlines including: Spotify getting into the hardware game. A big software update from NEEO. Google Assistant being activated in Nest Cam IQs. Cortana now supports IFTTT. The insanely-cheap $20 Wyze cam just got better. And more...
Thank you for being a part of the HomeTech community for these last 200 episodes! We look forward to many, many more!
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Some updates for the cord-cutters including 60 fps service from Hulu, new channels (and a slight price increase) for YouTube TV users, and a streaming device roundup. Thoughts on the Caavo box that has everyone talking. A 21st century take on "help, I've fallen and I can't get up". Seth's verdict from a week with the HomePod. And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Catching up on a busy week in the connected home, including: Cord-cutting Super Bowl mishaps. Expanded YouTube TV app support. Streaming options for the Winter Olympics as well as DirecTV's 4K HDR/Dolby Atmos coverage. Arlo spins off of Netgear with their own IPO. Nest rejoins Google to consolidate the company's smart home efforts.Control4's new CA-1 looks like a winner. WeMo announces a new HomeKit Bridge. Best Buy to stop selling CD's. And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: we are joined by Stuart Burgess, founding member of the Home Tech Gallery, a community for home technology professionals to highlight their work. Stuart shares the story behind this exciting new initiative designed to bring increased awareness to the world of professionally installed connected home.
That plus... Jason dips his toes in the cut-the-cord water. Is a new voice coming for Alexa (or not)? Google Home is gaining ground on Alexa. The Sonos One is on special, and the price is not-so-coincidental. And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth and Jason discuss a big week in smart home news including: Silicon Labs' acquisition of Z-Wave tech from Sigma Designs falls apart but does it really matter? Ring and ADT bury the hatchet. Some major features will be missing when Apple HomePod finally begins shipping on February 9. The death of Sonos UPnP integrations. And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Special guest host Richard Gunther of the Home: On Podcast fills Jason's seat and we discuss Google, Google, more Google and recap what CES was like on the show floor when the lights go out.
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by JJ Canon, owner of Digital Delight. Based in Houston, TX, this one-time "traditional" integration shop has adapted its business to embrace consumer brands such as Logitech, Sonos, and Nest. Leveraging well-known brands combined with an intense focus on service and the customer experience, Digital Delight is finding huge success where many others have failed. Tune in to hear how!
That plus... a quick overview of CES including some mind pretty mind-blowing OLED TV's and a massive voice control land grab! Don't miss it!
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On this week's Happy New Year's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Control4's Director of Product Marketing, Brad Hintze, to discuss the company's recent acquisition of leading RSM provider, Ihiji. Brad also shares several other updates that will excite home tech pros and end-users alike as we head into what will be a busy 2018!
That plus... HomeTech is now on YouTube! Roku's new and unique approach to whole-house audio. Thoughts on Amazon's acquisition of connected camera maker, Blink. The world's largest CES slide deck preview. And more...
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This week is just a quick update and announcement for our new YouTube channel. Thank you for a wonderful 2017!
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: A roundup of the week's biggest stories including: HomeKit locked the door but gave away the key. YouTube TV is covering ground but lagging on supported hardware. NFL hits the small screen. The moment of truth nears for Caavo. Sonos scores a legal victory over Denon. And more...
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On this week's very special episode of HomeTech: We are joined by fellow podcasters Mike Wolf, of the Smart Home Show and the Smart Kitchen Podcast, and Richard Gunther, of Home: On, for the 3rd Annual Technology.fm Holiday Fireside Chat.
Always one of our favorite episodes of the year, we gather to share our thoughts and perspectives on the biggest home technology stories of 2017, as well as our predictions about what to expect in the year ahead!
Pour yourself a drink and join us for this festive episode of HomeTech!
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: We play catch up after the holiday and cover news stories from the past few weeks. Jim Beam gets smart with whiskey. Amazon and Google duke it out. Amazon Prime Video finally arrives on Apple TV. A "smart speaker mirage"? Crestron making big moves back in residential once again. And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Jason joins us from the OneVision Resources HQ in Boston. Alongside him is Joey Kolchinsky, OneVision's CEO and third-time guest on the show. Jason, Joey, and Seth discuss this year's best Black Friday home tech deals.
That, plus the latest news including: ecobee's Switch+ takes flight in beta mode. Apple HomePod on your holiday wish list? Too bad! No Siri for you! CBS pulls the plug on Dish customers. 4K over-the-air is one step closer to reality. And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Nerd tips. Private dreamliners. A novel next-gen UI from Loxone. Logitech's about-face. Smart homes, and the PITA factor. Amazon's cable-bundle join Apple's in the scrap heap. Real news about #fakeHDR. And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: The NEEO remote is finally shipping, and we are joined by Raphael Oberholzer, the company's founder, to discuss the product's long-awaited release! Way back on episode 55, we spoke with Raphael following their wildly successful Kickstarter campaign. Since then, the home tech world has been anxiously awaiting the product. Raphael offers his perspectives on the winding road of a smart home startup, discusses the current state of the NEEO ecosystem, and shares a small glimpse of the big plans ahead for the company! Don't miss it!
That plus... A judge pumps the brakes on Ring's new security system. Control4 looks to cut some dead weight as their stock hits record highs. "Whole World WiFi" from Ubiquiti. And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Josh Christian, Director of Certification at the Home Technology Association. The HTA is a new initiative aimed at helping homeowners, as well as design and building professionals, find a qualified and vetted home technology firm for their project.
Given the lack of any real barriers to entry, many unqualified companies have given the home technology profession more than its share of black eyes. This, at the expense of consumers who have previously lacked an easy way to separate the wheat from the chaff. Josh gives us the rundown on what HTA is doing to solve this problem and raise the bar for consumers and home tech pros alike.
That plus... Honeywell getting in on the DIY security fun. TiVo's introduces a new voice-control enabled lineup as well as a their new "Hydra" UI. And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: No need to knock, Amazon, just c'mon in. What the August acquisition could mean for the smart lock market. Wink jumps on the DIY home security bandwagon. Microsoft looks to stay in the smart home conversation with a Cortana/Insteon partnership. Don't mess with Lutron's patent attorneys. Smart home adoption is up, but the market is more confusing than ever... or is it?? And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: KRACK... no, you shouldn't panic. Details on Amazon's "Custom Home Services" program, why they can't be trusted, and why that doesn't matter. Thoughts on Movies Anywhere, a killer new app for cord cutters. Netflix reaching new highs. And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth and Jason dissect the biggest news in the smart home including - Google Home Mini gives new definition to "always listening". Why Google is the one to beat in smart home AI. Alexa gets an important multi-voice recognition upgrade. The secret weapon that will keep Sonos in the game. Kwikset says to hell with physical keys. The Channels app is one to watch for cord cutters. And much more.
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth and Jason recap one of the busiest home technology weeks in recent memory. New hardware and integrations from Sonos. New Google Home hardware. An ADT and SmartThings collaboration. Ring disrupts monitored security. Amazon and Google drop their 4K movies pricing. Exciting HomeKit(ty) developments. And more...
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This week is a quick and short show to cover the highlights from the surprise Amazon hardware event. New Echos, FireTV, Buttons, and more!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We welcome Seth back after his battle with Hurricane Irma. We're happy to report that he, his family, and his home all came through the storm unharmed. We're also happy to report that this is a jam-packed episode, complete with our thoughts on three recent, major events: CEDIA, Apple, and Nest. Don't miss it!
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This week a quick CEDIA update from Jason since Seth is still battling power and internet outages in the wake of Hurricane Irma. We'll be back soon with a CEDIA wrap up and commentary on the Apple Event as well as the week's news in HomeTech.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Jason provides a glimpse at OneVision's new ebook "The Insider's Guide to Remote Systems Management" — a free, comprehensive, and fully manufacturer-approved analysis of the RSM space including comparisons of BakPak, Domotz, Ihiji, and OvrC Pro.
Plus... our annual CEDIA preview! Seth and Jason predict the biggest and most important themes you can expect to see emerge from San Diego including analysis of many new product announcements that have come out leading up to the show. This episode is not to be missed!
Also, don't forget! This year, we're hosting our first-even "Home Tech Happy Hour". Come join us at The Field - Authentic Irish Pub & Restaurant 🍀 on Thursday, September 7 at 5PM! Drop in for a quick toast before you head out to the evening's big events! Learn more here.
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined Jack MacDougall, President of Pixelgen, for a deep dive into today's ultra-confusing video landscape. From resolutions and bit rates, to color spaces and dynamic ranges, it's enough to make your head spin. Jack brings to the show a unique combination of deep expertise and an ability to make these concepts relatable. While our conversation covers numerous facets of video technology, a good portion of our chat focuses on dissecting today's competing HDR standards. With Jack providing the key information you should know in this brewing standards war, this is a show you won't want to miss.
That plus... Is a smart speaker from Sonos in the offing? Also, the latest on their Alexa software integration. Is a down market thermostat coming soon from Nest? New products from August rumored as well. Back-to-back CEDIA keynotes from Amazon. Eero meeting home tech pros in the middle. And much more...
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On this week's super-sized episode of HomeTech: In another installment of the "Projects Project", we welcome Nathaniel Gori to the show to discuss his unique smart home install. Figuring out a technology plan in a 100-year old home presented Nathaniel with more than his share of challenges. But, with good planning, thorough research, a bit of elbow grease, he was able to install a system that fits his needs and leaves room for expansion. Perhaps most importantly, his system also meets the requisite WAF. Tune in to hear all about Nathaniel's project. If you're interested in having your home technology project featured on the show, head on over to home.fm/projects and let us know about it!
That plus... Heading to CEDIA? We discuss some can't miss events — HomeTech's Happy Hour and OneVision's Service Workshops. A botched firmware update bricks a line of smart locks. Did Z-Wave's site just leak info on a new controller from Control4, the CA-1? Ikea poised for smart home domination. Pay TV providers register their largest subscribers losses ever! And much, much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Further hints of 4K / HDR support from Apple. TiVo's Mini 4K looks to ship this Fall. Chamberlain's HomeKit compatible MyQ Home Bridge finally launches... better late than never. Amazon reportedly looking to add multiroom audio to the Echo line. Thoughts on Savant's acquisition of Artison. Comcast unveils new features for their xFi platform. And much more... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Rob Green, CEO of the smart home startup Kiriō. This Seattle-based company is coming at the connected home from a very unique angle that you'll want to hear all about. Forgoing the pure DIY approach so common today, Kiriō is targeting the builder market with a product designed to add intelligence to the core systems of the home. With a turnkey approach to installation and programming, and an innovative distribution model, Kiriō just might be providing us with a glimpse of the future when it comes to the professionally-installed connected home.
That plus... Hip Hop stars and smart home hubs. A peek behind the HomePod curtain. Apple accidentally leaks hints of 4K and HDR content coming to iTunes (finally!). Comcast's streaming offering could be here by year's end. Ring launches yet another new product (these guys are on fire!). Blackwire looks to "Make Drivers Great Again". And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Our second installment of the "Projects Project", featuring David Millsaps. David recently performed a home renovation which included some substantial technology upgrades. From lighting control, to house audio, to home automation, and more, David clearly did his homework before forging ahead. By making well-researched product decisions, David's goal was to avoid flash-in-the-pan products and technologies. He also managed to balance his technology wants with the aesthetic requirements of a design-driven spouse... no easy feat! Tune in to hear how David has pulled off a highly-functional DIY home technology install on par with many professionally installed systems.
That plus... Asus gets into the Wesh MiFi (err, Mesh WiFi) game. Is Sigma Designs looking to sell Z-Wave? A potential IPO on the horizon for ADT. When it comes to Net Neutrality, Verizon just got caught with their hand in the cookie jar. Facebook's original TV programming may finally be near. And much more...
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On this week’s episode of HomeTech: BlueTooth mesh is finally a reality, but what will it mean for the smart home? Thoughts on the URC’s substantial new update — Total Control 2.0. OpenHAB now integrates with IKEA TRÅFRI smart lighting, as well as connected lawn mowers (lawnmowers??). Loxone has nifty looking new weather station. New and improved Alexa integrations from Savant and Logitech, respectively. Important details emerge about Lennar’s Amazon-powered smart home strategy. And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Is that a Minion? Amazon takes a page from the Geek Squad playbook. Apple steps up their retail smart home game. Will the original Echo get an overdue facelift? We don't need no stinkin' wires. A chat (dissertation?) about the great Net Neutrality debate. And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: The joy of summertime in Florida. Have we reached the voice-enabled speaker tipping point? Samsung wants to compete with Echo and HomePod, if only Bixby could speak English. An OTT video comparison worth 7 minutes of your time. Hulu lands a carriage deal with HBO. Another large builder dabbling in the smart home. An (unlikely?) marriage of convenience between Sonos and Crestron. Savant and Ihiji finally play nice. And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth gets a new computer (with a side of buyer's remorse). Ring's new Elite model now for sale, and a welcome addition to the line up. Amazon's Echo Show now integrates with most popular smart home cams. Sharp jumps into the OLED game. LG's 77" wallpaper TV will set you back a cool $20K. Yet more dire prediction for PayTV providers. And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth and Jason indulge in some Apple HomePod speculation. Japan's answer the Echo comes in Chicken or Bear. Lennar and Toll Brothers get hands-on with the smart home. New hardware from Ring. Vivint kicks open the door to the smart-home-for-renters market. Zigbee PRO 2017 - don't call it a comeback. And Insteon acquired, but where will it lead?
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Florian Woess, CEO of Loxone US. Florian provides a great overview of the company's unique approach to professionally-installed home automation. Comparable to the most established brands here in the states, Loxone's US operations are just getting started. But if their widespread popularity overseas, and rapid growth to over 250 worldwide employees is any indication, they are poised to gain significant market share in the years to come. With a huge array of hardware options. a thoughtful approach to software, and highly competitive price points, Loxone is clearly one to watch. Tune in to our conversation with Florian to learn more about the company's compelling story!
That plus... New hardware and service offerings from Eero. Thoughts on Logitech's new Circle 2 indoor / outdoor camera. Savant's "Wally" line up - What's old is new again. CEDIA's (crazy expensive) new digs. Netflix subscriber numbers surpass Cable. And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Richard Gunther, long-time friend of the show and host of the Home: On Podcast, joins us for a comprehensive wrap-up of Apple's recent WWDC. From significant (if a bit under-the- radar) HomeKit updates, to a spirited discussion about Apple's new HomePod product, and everything in between, this episode covers all you need to know about Apple's latest event.
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth welcomes an uninvited show guest into his garage.....er, studio. #SiriInACan looks more like a reality than ever, but we're still not holding our breath. Details emerge on Nest's new "Cam IQ". Essential Home - the next big thing, or just vaporware? An over-the-top link for for over-the-top video. And much more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: We proudly unveil the world premier of the HomeTech "Projects Project" (yes, still working on that name). Featuring an installation by Rob Lombardo. Rob utilized all DIY tech to add some really neat flare to his outdoor living space including under-rail LED lighting, pool and lighting control by INSTEON, and of course some audio via Sonos.
That plus... Amazon releases a new Echo targeted at the Greatest Generation. Ikea's smart lighting solutions just got a lot smarter. Verizon throws their hat into an increasingly competitive streaming TV market. And Nest is working on a 4K camera... sort of.
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: We catch up with Kris Gamble, founder of the UK-based Customised and creator of the now-legendary #LiveInstall hashtag. Never one to color inside the lines, Kris shares a number of updates surrounding his latest efforts to mix it up in the smart home. From a new-found focus on social media platforms beyond of his Twitter wheelhouse, to an installation marketing campaign aimed at disrupting traditional business models, Kris is living up to his reputation for charting new territory in the connected home business.
That plus... Thoughts on Vin Bruno's departure from CEDIA. A wrap-up of the biggest stories from Google IO. A tour of HomeKit's premier in the builder market. And a revolutionary new approach to smart home sensors that might just give us a glimpse of the future.
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Sean Miller, President of PointCentral, to discuss the company's unique approach to the smart home market. PointCentral leverages popular home technology products to drive value in both the long term and short term rental markets. Selling into a variety of verticals, PointCentral offers an attractive solution for property managers and renters alike.
That plus... The Echo Show breaks Amazon's mould, but will it catch on? And will the team at Nucleus be left in the wake? Did Hulu just launch a Pay-TV killer, or merely yet another streaming app? Traditional Pay-TV providers are hemorrhaging subscribers at record levels. Is HomeKit ready for prime time? And more...
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On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Bruno Napoli, Founder of Krika and long time friend of the show. Bruno joins us to discuss a recent blog post of his that has home technology professionals all over the world engaged in a raging debate about the future of the industry. Bruno's post outlines his strong opinions about what the efforts of GAFA (Google, Apple, Facebook, and Amazon) in the smart home mean to traditional home technology companies. And our interview with him is easily the most spirited conversation we've had in 3+ years of doing the show. It's not to be missed! That plus... The wait for Siri-in-a-Can may finally be coming to an end. Alexa will soon be able to whisper sweet nothings. Ecobee getting in position to dominate the smart TStat game. Savant is back! And more... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Amazon Echo just became your personal stylist. Vizio didn't succeed in killing the hard-button remote after all. A Smart home that wants to kill you. Chemotherapy for the the IoT. New research reveals surprising data on media device adoption. Is Home Automation as a profession dead? And much more... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: What "OK Google" hacks show us about the challenge of wake words. Lutron continues their consumer market penetration with a new Caseta integration. Amazon takes their Echo integrations to a whole new level. Bose on the receiving end of a ludicrous lawsuit. Logitech Pop buttons get a HomeKit integration. The significance of embedded Sling TV in LG's displays. The staggering amounts of money being spent on original video content by OTT providers. And much more... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
A very quick show this week to launch an initiate we've been dreaming up for a few months. If you have a home technology project of any size at any stage head on over to hometech.fm/projects and let us know about it!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Petlexa, Google Gnome, and the Hub may have been April Fools' jokes, but the Control4 Emojis were not. Alexa makes her way into a thermostat (?) and a touchscreen speaker that looks like a football. A glimpse at TiVo's rumored cloud DVR. Verizon looks to launch a streaming TV service this summer. Yet another entrant in the sub-$500 Mesh WiFi space. And much more... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth and Jason discuss the latest in home tech news including: a amazing new release from the team at Josh.AI. Ikea makes a surprising, if totally logical, step into the smart home. FetchItGo give users physical buttons... and dry erase markers? Google Home releases a handful of new integrations. Samsung gets into the mesh WiFi game with a compelling offering. Proof, if you needed it, that cable companies suck at customer service. And much, much more... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth and Jason sit down to discuss another busy week in the smart home including: Is your IT guy trying to kill you? The smart home landscape for renters. A fantastic new resource for comparing DIY home tech products. Is Leviton inviting electricians into the connected home? A conversation about next-gen UI's including chat bots and... ocarinas?? And much more... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Richard Berrie, CEO and President of iHummingbird. Berrie and his team take a unique approach, leveraging low-cost solutions such as Nest, Sonos, and Lutron Caseta to generate business and build relationships. Proving the theory that these consumer-focused products present up-selling opportunities to savvy professionals, iHummingbird is doing a booming business - with an average installation price of $35,000. Tune in to hear how exactly how he's doing it! That plus... How the new HDMI 2.1 spec might create more problems than it solves. Netflix penetration surpasses a new milestone. Pandora shows up late to the on-demand streaming party. And a clever new voice-controlled approach to tech support from OneVision. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth and Jason sit down to dissect the biggest stories of the week including: Just a bunch of spies doing their job. Apple puts out some shiny HomeKit marketing. Rumors of a new indoor camera from Amazon. Thoughts on Crestron's new (not-so) easy-to-setup lighting control system. And what Sonos' efforts to fend off the disrupters shows us about the smart home. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Mitch Klein, Executive Director of the Z-Wave Alliance for an in-depth conversation about the technology and what is new with the alliance. Long a stalwart in the connected home, Mitch discusses what makes the technology so appealing to end-users, installers, and service providers alike. Additionally we explore some recent developments, particularly in the area of cybersecurity, that the alliance is focused on as they look to maintain their dominant position in the worldwide connected home market. That plus... we belatedly celebrate 3-years of HomeTech! AWS sneezes and half the internet gets a flu. Jason has another tactile control product to drool over. And an spirited chat about the future of TV sparked by YouTube's new offering for cord cutters. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth and Jason sit down for some spirited discussion about the forces at play in the middle market for home technology. Established companies like Savant, Crestron, and Control4 have formed a consensus and are "racing to the top" with their collective focus on luxury solutions. Meanwhile, inexpensive DIY platforms such as HomeKit are maturing at a steady pace. So, where does this leave the traditional CEDIA integrator? Tune in to hear our thoughts... That plus... rumors of a new Sonos product, finally! - but will it be worth the wait? A truly novel approach to the TV experience from a startup called Caavo - but will it catch-on? Visio gets caught with their hand in the cookie jar. And just how much does a HomeKit-outfitted house cost? Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this all interview episode we present Jason's extended coverage of the show floor of ISE 2017 in Amsterdam.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Join us for a super-sized episode as we wrap-up ISE 2017! Jason was busy all week gathering sound bites on the show floor. This show features a handful of our favorite interviews from Amsterdam, plus some commentary from Jason and Seth. Once again, a big thanks to our sponsors, Krika, Zappiti, and the Z-Wave Alliance for making the trip possible! Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Jason announces his upcoming trip to ISE in Amsterdam (big thanks to our sponsors for making this possible - Krika and Zappiti!). That plus... Rumors of an HDBaseT apocalypse prove far less dire than originally thought. CEDIA gets out of the trade show management business. A look behind the curtain at Crestron. What Apple's recent high-profile hire could mean for their smart home efforts. A few important updates in the ongoing IoT-cyber security. conversation. "Unlock the Box" is officially dead. And much more... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We dissect the big news from the recently held Savant Dealer Summit. Does a new CEO at Sonos mean the company will finally start playing nice with others? Why we're really at the tip of the voice-control-iceberg. And the nail in the coffin for 3D TV... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Rammohan Malasani, CEO of Securifi, to discuss the company's innovate new security offering. Aimed at protecting your network from falling victim to attacks, such as the recent, high-profile Mirai botnet, this subscription-based service is a first of its kind in the consumer router market. That plus... Are streaming TV services headed in the wrong direction? Big builders doubling down on voice control. Can an AI-powered robot take care of Grandma? Ecobee brings a nice, if subtle, addition to the HomeKit ecosystem. And apparently millennial males have a thing for home automation. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We sit down for a not-to-be-missed wrap up for CES 2017. The consumer electronic industry's annual smorgasbord, CES consistently serves up an array of home technology stories ranging from the significant to the absurd. 2017 was no exception. Join us as we dissect another crazy year in Vegas including: Alexa domination. Sony's "if you can't beat 'em join 'em" approach to OLED. HomeKit making a (quiet) splash. Proof that the home-automation-hub category is alive and kicking. How even the sanctity of fishing is being violated the IoT. And much, much more... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth and Jason sit down for a chat on the eve of CES 2017. They discuss a number of the stories surfacing early in the week that give a good indication as to the what we can expect from Vegas this year. Topics include... Flying (attack?) drones. Smart Garbage Cans. Samsung doubling down on the Family Hub 'fridge. Pregnancy wearables. And much, much more. All that plus... Seth latest work project integrating the Ring doorbell with Control4. And a must-see video of an Amazon Echo getting downright nasty... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth is a new dad! He takes a brief break from changing diapers to join Jason for a chat, and to share some thoughts about becoming a father! That plus... a few thoughts on what to expect from CES2017. Sony dips their toes in the OLED pool. Samsung is bringing back the Quantum dots. Ransomware finds a new target in (not-so-smart) TV's. The Wynn Las Vegas bets big on voice control. And Facebook's recent intrigues in the AI game. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's super-sized episode of HomeTech: We are joined by fellow podcasters Mike Wolf, of the Smart Home Show, and Richard Gunther, of Home: On, for the 2nd Annual Technology.fm Holiday Fireside Chat. Easily one of our most substantial episodes of the year, the four of us share our unique thoughts and perspectives on the biggest home technology stories of 2016, as well as our predictions about what to expect in the year ahead! Happy Holidays! We hope you enjoy this very special episode! Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Kenny Kim, Product Manager for SnapAV's RSM platform known as OVRC Pro. In addition to providing a great overview of the product we discuss what makes OVRC unique in an increasingly competitive RSM landscape, and the general importance of remote monitoring and management tools in the future of the home technology industry. That plus... We touch on a few of the biggest home technology stories of 2016 (more on that next week, be sure to tune in!). Spotify lays down the law when it comes to integration. SnapAV makes yet another important acquisition. Microsoft has a home automation hub... sort of. Amazon planning a touch-screen enabled Echo? And Comcast is still refusing to play nice with Apple's Single Sign-On service. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
Jason and Seth sit down to discuss the kickoff of the 2016 holiday shopping season, known here in the states as Black Friday. Covering a number of bargains available this year, as well as a few of their own personal wishes, this episode is a great gift guide for the smart home enthusiast on your list... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are thrilled to unveil HomeTech Academy! Offering vendor-specific education, software training, and product reviews, HomeTech Academy is a first of its kind e-learning site designed for home technology professionals. At launch we are pleased to offer a select group of free software training video courses. We are actively pursuing additional partner companies, and look forward to further developing our course catalog in the weeks and months ahead. It is our goal to provide the education and resources that busy home technology professionals need to take their business or career to the next level! Enroll now for free to get started! That plus... We share some great listener feedback submissions, covering the (good?) old days of 4-wire bus control, as well as continued dialogue about the ever-important topic of network security. Plus a few thoughts on Samsung's acquisition of Harman. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We have a chat with Rammohan Malasani, Founder & CEO at Securifi. Ram joins us to discuss the company's Almond family of routers. In particular we dive into the latest Almond 3 product, which serves not only as a robust mesh WiFi system, but also doubles (triples?) as a Smart Home hub / self-monitored security solution. That plus... Alexa in the form of a largemouth bass. A smart landscape lighting / attack-drone solution (release the drones!). And when it comes to networks, 40% of HomeTech pros are doing it wrong... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Gene LaNois - Head of Professional Channel at Nest Labs. Gene provides us with an overview of Nest's unique program, which seeks to create a thriving, and symbiotic relationship with the professionals of various trades who chose to incorporate Nest products into their installation businesses. That plus... What Apple's (half-baked) efforts tell us about the future of TV. SmartThings teams up with Leviton. Is Savant returning to their roots? And a solar roof that looks nothing like an ugly solar roof. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by friend of the show David Weinstein, Lutron's VP of Residential Sales. David shares his thoughts on the current state of the market including the increasing number of production builders embracing home technology, as well Lutron's continued success serving the luxury integrator. That plus... Apple's homebuilder partnerships aim to cement HomeKit's place in the mid-market. Our thoughts on the potential ATT / Time Warner acquisition. DirecTV unveils some details on their forthcoming streaming service. Confirmation (if you needed it) that distributing 4K video is hard. And how blame for the recent spat of DDoS attacks is being misdirected. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Good friend, and regular guest of the show Kris Gamble, from #LiveInstall, joins us to provide an update on the home technology scene from across the pond. Topics of conversation include his recent attendance at the HDAnywhere X Event and Essential Install Live show, his thoughts on the HAUS closure, his success stories with a couple new product lines, and a home tech retrofit at his new personal residence. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Brad Hintze from Control4 to discuss the latest release of Pakedge's RSM platform - BakPak 4.0. We explore the feature set of this robust remote management tool, and discuss the ways that it can help HomeTech Pros run a more streamlined service business. That plus... 11 hours to boil water? Panasonic's new wireless button ditches the battery. Comcast gets caught "cramming". And HAUS calls it quits. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by JoshAI co-founder Alex Capecelatro to discuss the company's unique approach to AI in the smart home. Alex discusses how, through the use of advanced learning algorithms and sophisticated natural language processing, JoshAI is aiming to become the premier name in next-gen smart home control. That plus... How you might have unwittingly played a role in one of the largest botnet attacks ever recorded. Google (not Nest) is getting serious about the connected home. And more on that whole pesky DIY convergence thing... Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Jason and Seth sit down for the second in their 2-part CEDIA wrap-up series. Featuring numerous sound bites from the show floor, this episodes highlights some of most unique and innovative products seen in Dallas this year. This show also puts a special focus on some the DIY smart home companies seeking meaningful ways to embrace a working relationship with home technology pros. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Jason and Seth sit down for the first in a two-part recap of CEDIA 2016. Featuring numerous sound bites captured on the show floor, this episode highlights some of the key trends to emerge from Dallas this year. Be sure to tune in next week for part 2! Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron! Visit HomeTech.fm/support to learn more...
Jason and Seth sit down for a few minutes at CEDIA 2016 to give a quick overview and thoughts from the show.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: we are joined by Vin Bruno, the CEO of CEDIA, to discuss the upcoming show in Dallas, as well as the current state of the organization. Vin shares many valuable insights about the state of our industry, where we are headed in the future, and what he is looking forward to seeing on the show floor. That plus... Seth and Jason share their thoughts on some of the most important trends and themes they expect to see emerge from the industry's most important event.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Seth and Jason sit down for a lengthy discussion about the huge news that came from Sonos this week. If you're not aware the company finally announced its long-awaited API. Included in the announcement was a list of integration partners including Crestron, Lutron, Savant, Control4, and iPort. In addition to the API announcement, the company also rolled out a voice control partnership with Alexa. Tune in to hear all about the implications of this huge news on the home tech market. That plus... Coldwell Banker doubles down on the connected home. The interesting partnership between Access Networks and Eero. And Z-Wave makes a big move aimed at maintaining their long-held place in the smart home. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week’s episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Mike Maniscalco, co-founder of Ihiji, to discuss the company’s robust system monitoring platform. Established in 2009, Ihiji was a first-mover in the remote technology management space. Mike shares his thoughts on the importance of RMR, and how his company helps home tech pros make the critical transition to service based pricing. That plus… The (unsurprising) demise of Kaleidescape. Samsung jumps on the voice control bandwagon. Reinventing WiFi seems to be all the rage. And Amazon has its eyes set on the streaming music game. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: After taking a week off to let Jason enjoy some time with his newborn son we are back in action to tackle a busy week in home technology news. Conversations include: Is Sonos finally going to release an API? The great 'technologist debate' continues. Providing solutions versus providing products. A conversation about HDBaseT, 4K and the future of video distribution in general. EchoStar drops Sage like a hot potato. The search for more competition in the handheld remote market. And thoughts on Logitech's new Pop buttons. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
This week Jason and Seth sit down to cover the weeks news and follow up on a number of stories that have some updates. We're still not sure what to think about the new name for "integrators" even though we show up as the first result in Google. What do you think? Is "Home Technologist" any better than "Custom Integrator?"
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Steve Hosterman of Greenlight Control joins us to discuss the company's unique twist on remote systems monitoring and management. If you're a home tech pro evaluating different options to implement RMR in your business, Greenlight should absolutely be on your shortlist of tools to consider. That plus... A recent (and over reported) Nest thermostat glitch. The end of American owned flat panel companies has arrived. Savant swears allegiance to the home tech pro. Some interesting, if not surprising, picks for CEDIA 2016's Best New Finalist award. And Crestron hasn't completely given up on the residential channel (yet anyways). Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined once again by good friend of the show, and the mastermind behind #LiveInstall, Kris Gamble. Kris recently attended Essential Install Live and joins us to discuss some of the his takeaways from the trade show floor. That plus... an intriguing pick for CEDIA 2016's Friday morning keynote. Dish Network hops on the voice control bandwagon. Nest Cam Outdoor misses the mark. And Denon sharpens their focus on the Heos line's battle for market share. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Kent Dickson, Co-Founder at Yonomi, to discuss the company's unique "hub-less" approach to unified control in the smart home. That plus... Savant is officially a consumer product. Amazon discontinues the Echo Dot. Sonos has some new digs in NYC. A lawyer feeding frenzy aimed at Nortek's Board of Directors. And what's the big deal with Comcast's new Netflix partnership? Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech Seth and Jason catch up on the latest news including: A peek behind the curtain of an ultra high end theater install. Thoughts on not one, but two major home technology acquisitions. A discussion about the questionable future of the lowly cable box. The continued challenges facing companies who try and bridge the gap between home automation and control of the media room. And a dissection of Best Buy's new in home technology consulting service. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech Seth sits down to cover the ins and outs of one of the most popular home audio products in recent memory: Sonos. If you're a enthusiast looking for more information or a Sonos dealer wanting a refresh this is the episode for you.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Ubiquiti's VP of Business Development Keenan Lewis to discuss Amplifi, the company's exciting new WiFi system. With a strong track record in the enterprise, Amplifi represents Ubiquiti's first foray into the direct-to-consumer market. Keenan provides us with a great overview of the Amplifi product family, and explains why he thinks Ubiquiti is poised to dominate WiFi in the home. That plus... #LiveInstall links up with Loxone for a unique event. Jason shares a few belated thoughts about WWDC. What to make of the iControl acquisition. BlueTooth has a new spec, but still no mesh. Ringing the bell for Nokia. And Alexa gets into bed with Logitech. Fan of the podcast? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!
Great friend of the show Richard Gunther, from the Home: On Podcast, sits in for Jason who needed to take the week off. Richard and Seth dissect all the news from WWDC 2016, placing a primary focus on Apple's long overdue updates to HomeKit.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by the CEO and Founder of SevenHugs Simon Tchedikian to discuss the company's new product, the Smart Remote. Billed as the world's first "contextual remote", this innovate handheld device represents a revolutionary approach to controlling your home's connected devices. That plus... A brief look ahead to Apple's WWDC. Seth's cord-cutting journey is off to a slow start. Staples makes their exit from the smart home official. And Tony Fadell gets disrupted. Enjoy the show? Please consider supporting our efforts by becoming a Patron.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Zenovia's VP of Business Development Jimi Gonzalez, to discuss the company's new product Airhome. Leveraging Apple's Airplay technology, and a very interesting modular design, Airhome represents a very progressive approach to audio distribution. That plus... What the heck is Alexa doing inside your browser? Will the IoT get you killed? Someone's saying something positive about SmartThings for a change. And evidence of live programming coming to Amazon's FireTV platform. Enjoy the show? Please consider supporting our efforts by becoming a Patron.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: With the announcement of Google Home still warm off the presses, we spend the entirety of our show discussing the rapidly evolving landscape of voice control in the home. From the specifics about Google's initiative, to a broader discussion about where this all headed, our conversation covers dissects this intriguing category. Enjoy the show? Please consider supporting our efforts by becoming a Patron.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Jeff Lyman, Chief Marketing Officer at Vivint, to discuss the company's truly unique approach to the smart home. From their roots as a traditional security provider, VIvint has grown into a powerhouse sitting atop this year's CEPro 100 list with a whopping $653 million in revenue. Tune in to hear how a combination of proprietary hardware, strategic partnerships, and high-touch service have all contributed to the company's wild success. That plus... Seth wants to sell you a button that does nothing. Jason reviews the new Savant Pro Remote. And a few random thoughts about Google IO. Thanks as always for listening! Enjoy the show? Please consider supporting our efforts by becoming a Patron!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We're joined once again by our good friend, and UK correspondent Kris Gable of #LiveInstall. Kris recently returned from a trip to Grand Designs Live, the UK's largest home building show. We discuss his experience attending the event as home technology professional. That plus... Control4's rosy Q1 earnings call. Speculation on Apple's plans to include a HomeKit app in iOS10. Ubiquiti Networks' splashy entrance into consumer WiFi. And a smart strategic acquisition by Domotz. Thanks as always for listening! Enjoy the show? Please consider supporting our efforts by becoming a Patron
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We're joined once again by good friend of the show Richard Gunther to discuss the ongoing struggles of companies like Apple, Nest, Staples, and Samsung to penetrate the connected home. That plus... selling fear in the tech press. Will TiVo's core business now become patent-trolling? And mount your Amazon Echo to the ceiling because, why not? Thanks as always for listening! Enjoy the show? Please consider supporting our efforts by becoming a Patron.
On this week's episode of the HomeTech Podcast: Kohler gives new meaning to the Internet-of-S***. Insights on the demise of Staples Connect. A rather surprising opponent speaks out against FCC's plan to #UnlockTheBox. The HDCP mafia strikes again. Another national builder hops on the connected home train. And if Control4's looking for a Trojan Horse they need only shift their focus. Enjoy the show? Please consider supporting our efforts by becoming a Patron.
On this week's episode of the HomeTech Podcast: We welcome back Joey Kolchinsky, Founder of OneVision Resources, to discuss the company's innovative new white-label Integrator Service Desk offering. That plus... Nest's CEO Tony Fadell has a strange definition of fast. Growing discontentment is the SmartThings community. Our thoughts on the acquisition of Luxul by Legrand. And Azione members are warned of a pending recession. Enjoy the show? Help support us by becoming a Patron.
On this episode of the HomeTech Podcast: We welcome Alex Nigg, Founder of the Properly App, to discuss his creative use of DIY smart home solutions to remotely manage vacation rentals. That plus... A few follow ups from our DIY home automation roundup. Lutron hops on the Alexa train. Thoughts on a big acquisition from Nortek. And URC's new control offering aimed at security dealers. Enjoy the show? Want more HomeTech? Join our email list to receive our weekly newsletter and show updates.
On this episode of the HomeTech Podcast: We are joined by Domenico Crapanzano, Founder and CEO of Domotz, to discuss their innovate platform for remote technology monitoring and management. Built to be lightweight, affordable, and robust, Domotz has quietly become a serious contender for home technology pros looking for a better way to manage client systems. That plus... Fanning the flames at Nest. What does Revolv have to do with hummus? Our thoughts on a brutal Control4 stock analysis. And Amazon continues to reign body blows on the connected home competition. Enjoy the show? Want more HomeTech? Join our email list to receive our weekly newsletter and show updates.
On this week's episode of the HomeTech Podcast: We present a roundup of various DIY home automation platforms. If you want sophisticated home automation, without the professionally installed price tag, it can be done. But don't expect it to be easy. We cover some of the DIY smart home platforms you might want to consider, and a few you probably shouldn't. Plus... Vizio thinks they just killed the physical handheld remote. August now makes a doorbell, but measure your doorframe first! Nest is becoming a soap opera. And more fallout from the recent shakeup at Sonos. Enjoy the podcast and want more HomeTech? Join our email list to receive our weekly newsletter.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Control4's Director of Product Marketing Brad Hintze joins us to discuss what the company has been up to, including the new EA Controller line, the Pakedge acquisition, and a quick look back at their ISE booth. Plus... Another Apple event and still no HomeKit. A recent SmartThings snafu. Nest and the conversation about pesky terms of service. Nope...Sonos still doesn't care. And Ring steps up their design game. Enjoy the podcast and want even more HomeTech? Join our email list to receive our weekly newsletter!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: AE Ventures' Andrea Medeiros and Jillian Bateman-Moore join us to discuss the inaugural TecHomeX tradshow. Plus... DirecTV leads the 4K broadcast charge. A rather unexpected shakeup at Sonos. And a big initiative in the movie business from a name who might not expect... Enjoy the podcast and want even more HomeTech? Join our email list to receive our weekly newsletter!
On this week's episode of HomeTech: We're joined by SnapAV's Alex Patrao to talk about Luma, and the future of surveillance. Plus... You can tempt us, but we're done discussing Crestron. A combo home automation hub / perfume dispenser (finally!). Amazon bats .500 on their new Echo products. And some things that just don't belong on your house.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Dusting off the bell (once again). Pop-quiz time for Seth. The death knell for luxury AV? The merits of connected water pitchers. And what's with all the fuss about Eero? Fan of HomeTech? Join our email list to receive our weekly newsletter and show reminders.
On this very special 100th episode of HomeTech: Join us for as we dive into the archives! At 2+ years in the making, this episode is one you don't want to miss! Featuring audio clip highlights from some of our best shows, we take a trip down memory lane to discuss the significant evolution of home technology since the launch of our podcast! As always we want to send you a sincere thanks for listening! Here's to 100 more!
Can't wait for our 100th show?? Well we've got good news... a special bonus episode to tide you over! Kris Gamble of #LiveInstall joins Jason to discuss his recent trip to ISE 2016 in Amsterdam. Tune in for a recap of the most important home technology stories to emerge from this massive trade show. Think of it as episode 99.5. Hope you enjoy!
This week on the HomeTech: Nearing a milestone. What the heck is a wife-warmer?? The Crestron-Resi speculation continues. A huge buyout in the security world. Good news for OLED lovers. And something resembling a hub from a name you might not expect. Fan of HomeTech? Help us out! Leave a review on iTunes or consider becoming a patron. And don't forget to sign up for our email list for weekly show reminders and access to exclusive newsletter content.
On this week's episode of HomeTech: Super Bowl braggery and creepy commercials, why Crestron leaving CEDIA doesn't matter, thoughts on C4's big acquisition news, and the long-awaited answer to #What'sInTheBox? Jason was not disappointed, you won't be either... Enjoy the show? Help us out by leaving a review on iTunes or becoming a patron. And don't forget to sign up for our email list for weekly show reminders and access to exclusive newsletter content.
On this week's show: More mystery-box suspense, a final (yes, we promise, final) thought on CES, some more welcome news for cord cutters, and an introduction to our new UK "correspondent", #LiveInstall founder Kris Gamble, including his thoughts on ISE2016! Thanks for tuning in. Want to support our efforts? Leave us a review on iTunes or consider becoming a Patron. Also join our email list for access to our 'HomeTech Take' newsletter and weekly show reminders.
This week Seth and Jason discuss: the industry's reaction to the nest bugginess, CEDIA's great taste in new names, Control4's new EA line and why Wall Street will never get it, a little tvOS app with big implications, and exciting news on the horizon including a new partnership, and a mystery gift box en route from Sarasota to Denver... Thanks as always for tuning in. Like what you hear? Leave us a review on iTunes or consider becoming a Patron. Talk to you next week!
What can we say, it can't always be good news around here. Perhaps it's just the leeriness of those artic 40-degree days Seth has been battling in Florida. Or maybe it's the chest cold I've been battling. One way or another, this did not appear to be a very bright week in the smart home. Topics discussed include a smart thermostat that leaves you out in the cold, a call to pull a popular smart home product from the shelves, a trough of disillusionment following CES, and a pretty glaring flaw in one particular wireless security system. Sounds fun right? You may want to pour a drink for this one... Talk to you next week, likely with some better news. Thanks for listening! - Jason
At 170.000+ attendees, CES 2016 was truly a massive show. Trying to key in on significant themes through all the noise is daunting. Thankfully we finished digging out from under a veritable heap of news stories and press releases just in time to bring you this (massive) wrap-up special. Might want to consider listening at 2x speed here, tons of ground to cover! Of course we couldn't kick off our wrap-up without diving first into the smart home at CES. We dissect the various strategies of the big players, including Amazon's nearly ubiquitous presence (not bad for a company that didn't even come to the show). Like any self-respecting CES special we also include a comprehensive TV roundup, giving our take on the competing strategies of companies like Samsung, Sony, Panasonic, and LG. Be sure to tune in 'till the end as we wrap-up with something very special: the inaugural "HomeTech CES Awards". Join us for some fun as we round up the best stories from CES, and a few of the worst for good measure. As always we hope you enjoy the show! If you'd like to support our efforts to bring you more episodes like this one please take a moment to leave us a review on iTunes! It helps tremendously. You could also consider becoming a patron of HomeTech by visiting our Patreon page. Thanks for listening! Talk to you next week!
Production and recording schedules being what they are, this week we bring you just a small taste of what we've seen so far out of CES2016. The good news is that it didn't take long for the extravagant nature of the show to reveal itself. I mean, why wouldn't you need a 21.5" touchscreen on your refrigerator? The so-called "Family Hub", announced by Samsung, is replete with cameras on the interior (viewable from an app of course). Maybe the tech press will finally stop speculating about the glorious day when, finally, our 'fridge can let us know when we're out of milk. Far from the only story we cover this week, this episode also features other announcements out of Samsung, analysis of LG's late-to-the-party smart home strategy, and some pretty impressive new hardware from Dish. We hope you enjoy! Thanks as always for listening! If you like what you hear please take a moment to leave us a review on iTunes. Be sure to tune in next week for a deeper dive into CES, including the first ever installment of the "HomeTech CES Awards"!
With the Holidays in full swing, and tech companies nose-down prepping for the Consumer Electronics Show, news on the home technology front was a bit sparse this week. No matter! We're still bringing you a pertinent, if slightly abbreviated, episode. We start off with a brief chat about CES, making a few predictions about the madness about to descend on Las Vegas. Our conversation rounds out with a discussion about Control4's new consumer finance offering, and analysis of CEDIA's recent "State of the Association" webinar. We want to take a quick moment to thank you for a great 2016! It's been a pleasure to share our thoughts with you all year, and we appreciate your listenership tremendously! We'll talk to you next week (err... year)!
There is no better time than the Holidays to gather with close friends and reflect on the fact that another 12 months have come and gone (already?!). To that end we are excited to present to you a very special episode: The very first "Technology.fm Holiday Fireside Chat". Two long-time friends of the HomeTech podcast, Mike Wolf of the Smart Home Show, and Richard Gunther of Home:On, join us around the proverbial hearth for a lively and engaging conversation about the state of the connected home as 2015 draws to an end. So grab a glass of egg nog, put another log on the fire, and join us as we dissect this year's most relevant smart home stories, and make a few predictions about what 2016 has in store. As always we hope you enjoy the show! If you find the HomeTech podcast valuable please consider supporting our efforts by leaving us a review on iTunes, or by becoming a patron of HomeTech by visiting our Patreon page. Seth and I will be taking next week of to enjoy the Holiday with our families. We wish you and yours a Merry Christmas! Talk soon! ~JG
After taking a week off to galavant around Germany, Seth returned just in time for us to bring you this week's show. Battling through a serious case of jet-lag, and nostalgia for the land of beer and brats, Seth joined me to discuss a number of stories about smart home innovation, or at least something resembling it. A key story in this week's show is highly relevant to anyone with a vested interest in the evolution of home-technology-as-a-trade. A large integration firm in my neck of the woods (Denver, CO) has launched a new venture called HAUS (Home Automation University). It's an ambitious undertaking, and no doubt a novel approach, but will it succeed? At least half of the HomeTech team is bearish. Tune in for the full run down, then let us know what you think. We round out the episode with conversations about Amazon's (speculative) interest in gesture control, what NEEO is doing right when it comes to old-fashioned infrared, some patent grabbing by Apple, and a highly anticipated update from Sonos. As always we thank you for tuning in! If you find our show valuable please consider supporting our efforts by leaving us a review on iTunes, or by becoming a patron of HomeTech by visiting our Patreon page. We'll talk to you next week! JG
With this episode releasing on Black Friday, 2015's holiday shopping season is officially upon us. It won't come as a surprise to fans of our show that this year brings no shortage of gift options for the home technology enthusiast in your life. Join us for this special episode as we dissect the best smart home gift ideas of the 2015 holiday season. Breaking the conversation down into a number of broad categories, we discuss home automation hubs, home theater, media players, lighting and shade control, as well as a few odds and ends for the tinkerers and makers out there. Complete with a comprehensive look at the comparisons between similar products, as well as a handful of special sales we've spotted on smart home gear, this episode is a can't miss as we head into what promises to be a busy 2015 holiday season! As always we hope you enjoy the show! PS - We are going to do our best to get an episode out next week, (12/4/15) but combined holiday travel may prove too much to overcome. In any event please know that Seth and I wish you and yours a fabulous Thanksgiving! And that in this season of saying "Thanks" we want to reiterate our endless gratitude for your ongoing support of the show! Sincerely! Jason & Seth
When a startup raises over 3,000% of its crowdfunding goal it's safe to say that they've struck a chord. The Chicago based startup Oomi accomplished this feat, raising a staggering $1.7million in a campaign that set out to raise a mere $50k. Surpassing their initial goal in just 37 minutes, the team behind Oomi has clearly found a winning formula for standing out in the increasingly crowded DIY smart home space. Home technology enthusiasts are voting with their wallets, and the numbers don't lie. "What makes Oomi so unique?" you ask. Claims of sleek industrial design, ease of installation, and robust software are, after all, the order of the day. Join us for our conversation with Colin Marshall, VP of Oomi, as we discuss what makes them different. The interview covers many unique facets of the company including their willingness to take on AV & Entertainment control, the decision to manufacture their own touch panel complete with physical buttons (yes... actual physical buttons!), their clever approach to device pairing, and much more. As always we hope you enjoy the show! If you'd like to support our efforts to bring you more episodes like this one you could leave us a review on iTunes, or consider becoming a patron of HomeTech by visiting our Patreon page.