https://www.makeuseof.com Don’t be a slave to life: automate everything! We’ll show you how to convert your ordinary house into a home of the future. Wed, 18 Oct 2023 14:30:32 GMT en-US hourly 60 While you have always been able to stream YouTube Music to your HomePod via AirPlay, it isn't the convenient hands-free experience you would expect from a smart speaker. That all changes thanks to a recent update, which finally brings direct integration with Apple's HomePod.

]]> Wed, 18 Oct 2023 14:30:32 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-listen-youtube-music-homepod/ With package theft on the rise, security cameras and video doorbells are now essential to our homes. And while most security offerings support basics like remote monitoring and recording, Apple's HomeKit Secure Video goes one step further with Package Detection.

]]> Wed, 18 Oct 2023 13:46:29 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-enable-homekit-secure-video-package-detection/ While Apple's Home app offers plenty of ways to organize your smart home, one simple change will instantly impact your household's overall experience—renaming your devices. With just a few taps, you can make Siri interactions more natural and make your devices more accessible by assigning names that match how your family refers to things within your home.

]]> Tue, 17 Oct 2023 14:15:31 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-rename-smart-devices-apple-home-app/ With incredible room-filling sound, the HomePod is an excellent companion to the Apple TV. However, the extra punch that the HomePod provides may make dialogue hard to hear at times.

]]> Mon, 16 Oct 2023 16:30:31 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-use-enhance-dialog-apple-tv-homepod/ While the Home app makes it incredibly easy to pair and automate your smart devices, locating them can be a pain if you have multiple accessories in your home. This is especially true if your home has several of the same device types—like lights or smart plugs—as they share the same default icons. The same goes for Scenes.

]]> Fri, 13 Oct 2023 17:45:32 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-change-device-icons-apple-home-app/ Smart homes are now incredibly popular, but creating one involves buying multiple smart devices, and may cost you a pretty penny. So do you really need a smart home, or is it not the right call for you?

]]> Wed, 11 Oct 2023 15:30:30 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/reasons-to-create-smart-home/ If you already have a TV with an HDMI port and don't want to shell out money for a new smart TV, one of the best (and cheapest) solutions to enjoy streaming on it is to get a Google Chromecast. However, using and pairing it with your devices can be a bit complicated.

]]> Tue, 10 Oct 2023 13:45:30 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/how-to-use-chromecast/ When it comes to household chores, having to do the same tasks again and again can add so much stress to your already busy life. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of ways that technology can help.

]]> Tue, 10 Oct 2023 11:31:34 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/yeedi-cube-big-deal-day/ Fitbit is undeniably one of the most popular health and fitness watch brands out there today, with millions of users worldwide. Fitbit's wearable tech devices offer a lot of insightful features, but you might wonder if you can really trust its heart rate monitor.

]]> Mon, 09 Oct 2023 15:00:30 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/fitbit-heart-rate-accuracy/ Technology may often be flashy and futuristic, but it's also grown in areas of accessibility and inclusivity. For people with disabilities, tech tools are not mere conveniences, they are gateways to a more accessible world.

]]> Sun, 08 Oct 2023 15:31:28 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/kinds-of-tech-support-people-disabilities/ You could spend a lifetime cleaning your house from top to bottom and never quite manage to get that Goldilocks level of cleanliness that you were after. It can become a never-ending, joyless cycle that swallows up your free time.

]]> Fri, 06 Oct 2023 16:01:29 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/best-smart-cleaning-gadgets/ Are you building a home theater? Or maybe you simply want a bigger, better TV for your living room? Whatever the case, you shouldn’t buy the biggest, baddest TV you can find without doing prior research.

]]> Fri, 06 Oct 2023 13:45:30 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/tv-buying-guide-how-to-pick-the-right-tv-for-your-living-room/ Apple's FaceTime app makes video chatting with friends and family through your iPhone, iPad, and Mac quick and easy. And now, you can get others in your home involved in your calls with the FaceTime app on your Apple TV.

]]> Thu, 05 Oct 2023 18:00:32 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-use-facetime-apple-tv/ Chromecasts are perennially popular, but they face stiff competition from some of Roku's products. Which product is right for you depends on which features are most important to you. If you're debating between Roku and Chromecast, this article is for you.

]]> Thu, 05 Oct 2023 16:31:27 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/chromecast-vs-roku/ We all love a little extra convenience in our home, and smart technology has opened a door for us all to access an easier domestic life. A particularly popular smart home speaker brand, Sonos, is now a staple in millions of homes, but what does it actually provide? Where did Sonos come from, and what can it offer you in your smart home?

]]> Thu, 05 Oct 2023 13:30:30 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/what-is-sonos/ While we all tend to keep our iPhones close to us, it’s common to misplace them at home. It can get lost in the blankets on your bed, slide between your couch’s cushions, or could be inside your car in your garage.

]]> Sat, 30 Sep 2023 15:46:31 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-find-iphone-using-amazon-echo-and-alexa/ Many of us only use one brand of smart assistant in our home, as we assume that's the best and most convenient way to go about things. Besides, is it even possible to use two brands of smart assistants simultaneously? More specifically, can Amazon Alexa and Google Home, two of the biggest smart assistant speaker ranges, work together in one home?

]]> Fri, 29 Sep 2023 15:30:33 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/can-google-alexa-work-together/ You might not think it, but your home's address is crucial to getting the most out of Apple's HomeKit experience. So if you don't know where to add it—or how to refine it—you'll be missing out when it comes to automating your smart home.

]]> Wed, 27 Sep 2023 14:45:28 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-set-change-location-homekit-home/ Although it is pricier than other streaming devices, the Apple TV is the best set-top box for Apple users—thanks to extras like HomeKit integration. With HomeKit, the Apple TV functions as a smart home hub for all your accessories and offers convenient controls on the big screen.

]]> Wed, 27 Sep 2023 13:45:28 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/add-apple-tv-to-homekit/ As much as older adults might think that wearable devices are only designed for the young and not for them, that couldn't be further from the truth. There are plenty of amazing wearable devices that can not only improve your health as a senior but enhance your safety, too.

]]> Wed, 27 Sep 2023 12:01:26 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/wearable-devices-seniors-improve-health-safety/ Starting with iOS 17, there is a new addition to the Home app—Grid Forecast. While it isn't a new way to control your accessories, it is still an exciting addition that lays the foundation for potential smart home integration in the future.

]]> Tue, 26 Sep 2023 15:46:35 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/what-is-apple-home-grid-forecast/ There’s a lot of incredible smart technology for your home these days, from vacuums that map your house’s layout and fridges that text you when they’re left open to doorbells that tell you when someone shows up in the middle of the night. If you’re a smart device fan, you know that a lot of this technology comes with custom apps.

]]> Mon, 25 Sep 2023 16:30:29 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/customize-home-lighting-aidot-matter-smart-bulbs/ If you own a Fitbit, you can maximize and streamline your experience by connecting it to Apple Health. However, as Apple and Fitbit are direct competitors (Fitbit is owned by Google), there isn’t a native option to sync the two on your iPhone. If you want to connect your Fitbit to Apple Health, you’ll need to follow a workaround.

]]> Fri, 22 Sep 2023 16:30:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/connect-fitbit-to-apple-health/ These days, you can never be too safe. Fortunately, there’s a smart security camera for pretty much every use. These nifty devices can cover every square inch of your home, giving you a sense of security and peace of mind.

]]> Thu, 21 Sep 2023 17:16:27 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/best-places-to-install-smart-cameras/ If you're expecting a baby, congratulations. You're about to embark on an adventure like no other. Pregnancy can be an overwhelmingly joyful yet confusing time, and this doesn't end when your baby is born. We have found some great Amazon Alexa skills that can help make sure your pregnancy is a positive experience, as well as some skills to help with your newborn when they arrive.

]]> Thu, 21 Sep 2023 16:30:27 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/alexa-skills-for-pregnancy/ Since its beginnings in 2009, Fitbit has evolved to develop its own ecosystem, offering comprehensive activity monitoring via its trackers and technology designed to help improve your well-being.

]]> Thu, 21 Sep 2023 15:01:26 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/connect-fitbit-to-iphone/ Robot vacuums are very much the "in thing" nowadays, and there are many on the market to suit every budget. The $699 Yeedi Cube is the latest in Yeedi's line of robovacs, and this comparatively inexpensive device comes with several features that make it an excellent buy for beginners in the robot vacuum space, as well as those looking to upgrade.

]]> Thu, 21 Sep 2023 13:15:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/yeedi-cube-robot-vacuum-cleaner-review/ Amazon Echo smart speakers have always been a great way to interact with smart home devices. But Amazon has just unveiled a device built just for smart home control.

]]> Wed, 20 Sep 2023 18:30:28 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/amazon-echo-hub-smart-home-controller-announced/ Although the Apple TV offers app and voice controls, nothing beats the convenience of grabbing the Siri Remote when you want to veg out. However, like all remotes, Apple's clicker has a habit of slipping between the couch cushions or winding up in the places you least expect.

]]> Tue, 19 Sep 2023 15:30:33 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-find-lost-apple-tv-remote-with-iphone/ The Apple Home app and Siri are incredibly convenient for managing your smart home. However, there may be times when you want to avoid shouting a command or spending time looking around for one specific accessory.

]]> Mon, 18 Sep 2023 16:30:27 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-control-apple-homekit-home-with-nfc-tags/ Notifications from Apple's Home app are a great way to keep tabs on your smart home—if you always have your iPhone or Apple Watch on you. Wouldn't it be nice if Siri on your HomePod announced when a sensor detects motion or when a door or window opens?

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 18:15:27 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-create-custom-siri-homepod-announcements/ In an age where your fridge can connect to the internet and your thermostat might seem smarter than half the kids you went to school with, food technology has taken some interesting leaps. While the world isn't quite at the point where robot butlers are preparing meals, there have emerged several pieces of tech that might help you eat more mindfully.

]]> Fri, 15 Sep 2023 16:30:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/smart-food-gadgets-eat-mindfully/ In a crowded lineup of robot vacuum cleaners at IFA 2023, the Midea V12 stood out. The top-notch model earned the Innovation Award thanks to a great set of features that will keep your floors clean without you needing to lift a finger.

]]> Thu, 14 Sep 2023 13:01:26 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/midea-v12-takes-center-stage-at-ifa-2023-innovation-award/ The Eureka E10S was a showstopper at IFA 2023, and with good reason. It's latest self-emptying technology allows for the robovac to empty its dustbin into a larger, clear dust cup located at the docking station, allowing for up to 30 days of hands-free cleaning. Couple this with it's amazing mop and vacuum capabilities, voice control technology, and obstacle avoidance, and you have yourself the whole package.

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:31:12 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/the-eureka-e10s-bagless-technology-earns-it-the-best-of-ifa-2023/ During IFA 2023 the Yeedi Cube officially made its debut, and to merely say it's impressive seems like quite the understatement. From the innovative technology and game-changing features, it is no surprise it earned the IFA Spotlight Honoree badge from MUO. Let’s break down the top five reasons it was selected.

]]> Wed, 13 Sep 2023 14:58:01 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/yeedi-cube-earns-ifa-spotlight-innovative-technology-superior-design/ Have you ever tried tuning an instrument? Well, your heart, that little drummer inside you, has its rhythm and resonance. Scientists call this Heart Rate Variability (HRV)—the measure of the variance between your heartbeats.

]]> Tue, 12 Sep 2023 10:30:26 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/devices-track-train-heart-rate-variability/ With the ability to send timely notifications, security accessories—like door locks and motion sensors—play a vital role in Apple HomeKit homes. However, while convenient, notifications are also easy to miss and even easier to dismiss on accident.

]]> Mon, 11 Sep 2023 14:45:28 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-view-home-activity-history-apple-home-app/ If you have an iPhone and a Samsung TV, you can do a lot of cool things once they're connected. From your iPhone, you can play movies, music, and even mirror your screen on your Samsung TV.

]]> Mon, 11 Sep 2023 12:15:31 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/connect-iphone-to-samsung-tv/ With a plethora of available apps, speedy performance, and extensive integration with iOS devices, the Apple TV is simply the best streaming box for Apple users. To keep Apple's set-top box performing at its peak and to experience the latest features, you'll want to stay on top of software updates.

]]> Sun, 10 Sep 2023 16:45:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-update-apple-tv/ Almost all the smaller Roku devices can be powered via the USB ports on your TV. This is very useful if you are short of power outlets behind your television, but can lead to low power warnings. This is particularly true if your TV is more than 10 years old.

]]> Sat, 09 Sep 2023 16:00:27 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-fix-roku-low-power-warning/ With the introduction of home backup batteries and growing grid instability, many homeowners are considering this new technology. They provide backup power without the noise and pollution of gas-powered generators. But with batteries so expensive, should you get one for your home?

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 21:15:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/should-you-buy-home-backup-battery/ Logitech has discontinued its entire line of universal remote controls, leaving users of its popular Harmony Hub high and dry. Fortunately, you can get some alternatives to this popular universal remote.

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 18:15:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/logitech-harmony-hub-replacements/ Welcome to the 21st century, where you can send an X (previously known as Tweet) from your smart fridge. You can also track aspects of your wellness, like sleep, with a wide range of devices, from smartwatches to fitness trackers, rings, and smart mattresses—and even contactless trackers that use radio waves to monitor sleep movement.

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 17:30:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/smart-mattresses-sleep-trackers-better-improving-wellness/ Your Roku puts thousands of TV shows, movies, apps, and services at your fingertips. Because of this, you'll want to ensure that it runs the latest software, so you have the newest features, security fixes, and, more importantly, the best performance.

]]> Thu, 07 Sep 2023 14:30:28 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-update-roku-steaming-player-roku-tv/ The annual IFA tech show in Berlin is well known for its new monitors, TVs, headphones, wearables, and other tech. But in recent years, IFA has also become host to a new type of tech: portable power stations.

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 18:36:26 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/best-new-power-station-ifa-2023/ Are you tired of seeing the same old stock Amazon photos on your Fire TV screensaver? You can change the screensaver to your photographs of friends, family, pets, and more. We’ll show you everything you need to do.

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 17:15:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-use-personal-photos-fire-tv-screensaver/ Nanoleaf's Shapes and Elements Light Panels are an excellent way to bring life to your home with vibrant colors and relaxing scenes. But, like most tech, there may be times when you need to perform a reset to get them back up and running. We'll show you how.

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 15:31:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-reset-nanoleaf-shapes-elements-light-panels/ A busy year for new Sonos products continues. The company has just unveiled an upgraded version of the popular Move portable speaker.

]]> Wed, 06 Sep 2023 13:00:26 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/sonos-move-2-stereo-sound-better-battery-life/ In just a few short years, off-grid power generation and storage tech have rocketed into the minds of regular consumers. Leading the way is Jackery, who has launched two new Solar Generator's at IFA 2023: the Solar Generator 300 Plus and the Solar Generator 1000 Plus.

]]> Tue, 05 Sep 2023 22:35:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/jackery-launches-new-solar-generator-plus-300-solar-generator-plus-1000/ SwitchBot offers a ton of unique smart home solutions—from curtain openers to button pushers to humidifiers. To get the most out of these devices, though, you'll need to set up one of the company's smart hubs—like the SwitchBot Hub 2.

]]> Tue, 05 Sep 2023 17:45:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-set-up-switchbot-hub-2/ In the world of audio technology, few experiences rival the euphoria of music booming from a high-quality Bluetooth speaker. Tronsmart, a brand known for its commitment to delivering outstanding audio solutions, has once again raised the bar with the release of the Tronsmart Bang Max.

]]> Tue, 05 Sep 2023 13:01:26 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/tronsmart-bang-max-bluetooth-speaker/ IFA 2023 is still in full swing in Berlin. And the show is busy as ever with product announcements from a host of companies.

]]> Sun, 03 Sep 2023 15:45:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/ifa-2023-best-new-smart-home-products/ While best known for furniture, IKEA is also home to a robust range of wallet-friendly smart home accessories. Whether you need smart light bulbs, Wi-Fi speakers, blinds, remotes, or smart plugs, IKEA has it all.

]]> Sat, 02 Sep 2023 17:45:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-set-up-your-ikea-dirigera-smart-hub/ We have all been there. After automating all of your home's lighting, upgrading your thermostat, and deploying smart plugs across the house, there's always that one device that has to sit out because it relies on an old-school infrared remote.

]]> Sat, 02 Sep 2023 17:15:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-add-ir-device-to-apple-home-app/ Whether you're concerned about your sleep quality and patterns or simply want to keep note of how you're sleeping each night, you want to find the most accurate sleep tracker available.

]]> Sat, 02 Sep 2023 12:30:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/most-accurate-sleep-tracker/ Bluetooth speakers are everywhere, so standing out from the crowd takes some effort. Urbanista, with its solar-powered audio devices, fits this bill nicely and has launched the world's first Powerfoyle solar charging Bluetooth speaker, a great-looking speaker that will keep powered up so long as it's exposed to light—indoors or outside.

]]> Fri, 01 Sep 2023 19:20:31 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/ifa-2023-hands-on-with-urbanistas-new-malibu-bluetooth-speaker/ Even the robot vacuum, long a mainstay of a modern smart home, continues to improve. What started as a simple way to clean up your carpet or hardwood floors has evolved with many more bells and whistles.

]]> Fri, 01 Sep 2023 18:45:23 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/eufy-x9-pro-review/ Yeelight is known for its unique and fun smart lighting solutions for a smart home. And the company is introducing even more options at IFA 2023. We’ll take a look at all the new additions.

]]> Fri, 01 Sep 2023 14:15:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/ifa-2023-yeelight-new-matter-compatible-smart-lights/ Philips Hue helped create the smart home lighting market. Along with a wide variety of different options to choose from, its products are easy to use and are compatible with every major smart home platform.

]]> Thu, 31 Aug 2023 15:15:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/philips-hue-new-home-security-products/ Smart kitchen appliances transform any kitchen into a high-tech and modern environment. They are also highly functional and efficient. They make life easier, not to mention more fun. And let's face it, who doesn't want to have more fun in the kitchen?

]]> Wed, 30 Aug 2023 18:30:26 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/best-smart-kitchen-appliances/ Investing in a premium soundbar for your TV at home can make your setup instantly feel more luxurious. You'll get crisp, consistent audio that sounds so much better than the audio coming out of your built-in TV speakers. Even the best TVs have subpar speakers compared to soundbars.

]]> Wed, 30 Aug 2023 16:31:23 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/sonos-beam-vs-arc/ Getting a smart home security system is often seen as a relatively cheap and easy way of securing your home. However, it doesn't take long for a setup to get needlessly intricate or expensive when you start purchasing and setting them up without educating yourself first.

]]> Wed, 30 Aug 2023 13:30:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/home-security-system-considerations/ Amazon’s Blink brand provides completely wireless home security without needing to break the bank. And the latest Blink product improves on an already winning formula.

]]> Sat, 26 Aug 2023 12:30:26 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/amazon-blink-outdoor-4-wireless-security-camera/ You may think your Google Nest thermostat is only good for regulating your home's temperature, but this is not the case. There's plenty you can do with your Nest thermostat that stretches far beyond hot and cold.

]]> Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:45:26 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/13-things-didnt-know-nest-thermostat/ If you own a HomePod, you already know that it is the best way to experience Apple Music and control your HomeKit smart accessories. However, you probably didn't know that the HomePod is also an excellent speakerphone.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 18:30:26 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-use-homepod-speakerphone/ Roku streaming boxes and sticks are an excellent way to enjoy the most popular apps and services without investing in Apple's pricey option. And thanks to HomeKit integration, you can get most of the Apple TV's smart home features at a fraction of the cost. We'll show you how to set up and use Apple HomeKit with your Roku device.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 14:30:23 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-add-roku-device-to-homekit/ Summer means it’s time for you to have fun outside. But when you’re out and about, having the right tech gadgets is important to make your summer adventures more comfortable and safe.

]]> Thu, 24 Aug 2023 13:30:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/tech-gadgets-carry-during-summer/ If you need to remove Echo or third-party smart home devices from Alexa control, perhaps to help troubleshoot a problem or change your smart home setup, doing so takes just a few steps. We'll show you how.

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 17:31:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-remove-device-from-alexa-app/ The Apple Home app does an excellent job of keeping us informed about the status of our smart homes through our iPhones and iPads. But what about those times when we are binge-watching the latest shows or catching up with a hot new movie release?

]]> Wed, 23 Aug 2023 13:30:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-view-homekit-security-notifications-apple-tv/ Smart bulbs let you automate the lighting in your home and wirelessly control it from other devices, like smartphones or tablets. Some of the most popular smart lights on the market are Philips Hue bulbs, but even these can suffer technical problems from time to time.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 18:45:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-fix-problems-with-philips-hue-bulbs/ Apple's HomePod makes it incredibly easy to listen to your music library with Siri voice commands and AirPlay. But what if your HomePod could fire up your playlists automatically when you arrive home after a hard day at work?

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 16:45:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/homepod-play-music-when-you-arrive-home/ A bookshelf speaker, as the name suggests, is a type of speaker that is designed to be placed on a bookshelf or any other flat surface. These speakers are usually smaller than floor-standing speakers, which makes them a great option for small- and medium-sized rooms.

]]> Tue, 22 Aug 2023 14:45:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/what-are-bookshelf-speakers/ Philips Hue provides a convenient and flexible way to modernize your home lighting and make it part of your smart home ecosystem. It essentially transforms your traditional lighting fixtures into smart, connected devices that can be controlled remotely using various devices such as smartphones, tablets, smart assistants, and more.

]]> Sun, 20 Aug 2023 14:30:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-set-up-philips-hue-bridge/ HomeKit cameras and doorbells provide all the smart security essentials: timely notifications, event recordings, motion detection, and two-way audio. But as smart as HomeKit cameras are, there is a way to make them even smarter—face recognition.

]]> Sat, 19 Aug 2023 18:30:23 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-enable-face-recognition-homekit-secure-video/ Whether you're a movie and TV buff, a gamer, or just want to relax in front of the TV after a long day, a home theater is a must-have to satisfy your entertainment needs. However, many people think that setting up a home theater is costly. While this could be true, it's not necessarily so.

]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 16:45:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/build-home-theater-cheap/ Apple's HomeKit Secure Video is an incredibly convenient way to store your smart security camera footage in the cloud. However, iCloud+ storage is limited to a rolling period of 10 days, so you'll need to know how to manage your footage to prevent the loss of a crucial moment. We'll show you how.

]]> Fri, 18 Aug 2023 14:30:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-manage-homekit-secure-video-recordings/ A home theater setup is great for relaxing after a hard day's work or over the weekend. And with today's technology, creating one for your home has never been easier.

]]> Thu, 17 Aug 2023 18:31:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/building-a-home-theater-system/ Smartening your garage is one of the simplest ways of improving security, convenience, and safety. You can achieve this using smart gadgets like cameras for monitoring, a dehumidifier to remove moisture, and a parking sensor for better parking.

]]> Thu, 17 Aug 2023 18:01:22 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/smart-gadgets-for-garage/ Has Siri on your HomePod stopped responding to requests? Or has your HomePod dropped its Wi-Fi connection?

]]> Wed, 16 Aug 2023 16:30:23 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-restart-reset-apple-homepod/ For Apple users, the Apple TV 4K opens a world of entertainment and much more on the big screen.

]]> Mon, 14 Aug 2023 13:45:22 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/set-up-use-apple-tv/ Are you having trouble with your Wyze camera? Or are you setting up a new one? If so, you may need to power cycle it.

]]> Mon, 14 Aug 2023 13:30:22 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-power-cycle-wyze-camera/ Amazon’s Alexa-enabled video screens, an Echo Show, can make video phone calls directly to other Echo Show devices. Call a single friend or talk to your family or tribe with group video calling.

]]> Sun, 13 Aug 2023 18:15:23 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-place-group-video-call-amazon-echo-show/ Apple's HomePod and HomePod mini smart speakers produce room-filling sound in incredibly small packages. However, one speaker can only go so far, so if you are serious about sound, you'll want to combine two in a Stereo Pair. We'll show you how.

]]> Sun, 13 Aug 2023 16:45:23 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-stereo-pair-apple-homepod/ Have you ever noticed that the picture on your TV almost feels too smooth? You start watching something and somehow everything seems off; the camera panning can almost feel disorienting, and the actor's movement feels a little strange.

]]> Sun, 13 Aug 2023 15:45:22 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-turn-off-motion-smoothing-on-your-tv/ Every parent knows how difficult it can be to get the kids to sleep when they have too much energy and are overtired, yet they can't seem to settle down and get ready for sleep. A good routine isn't only beneficial to them but for you too, so you can get your evenings back. The good news is you don't have to tackle bedtimes alone.

]]> Fri, 11 Aug 2023 13:15:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-use-amazon-echo-kids-sleep/ First there was the wheel, then there was the electric light. Now there’s AI. There’s been a lot of hype surrounding Artificial Intelligence or AI, but will it be as ground-breaking as some previous human inventions? And is it anything to fear?

]]> Thu, 10 Aug 2023 17:45:22 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-ai-may-integrate-future-smart-home/ Energy prices are constantly rising nowadays, making it pricier to cook meals, heat our homes, and be online. Because of this, many of us have taken measures to save electricity and money.

]]> Thu, 10 Aug 2023 13:46:11 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/what-is-smart-monitor/ Your Echo Show can display recipes on its home screen, and you can make those recipes more personalized to you and your family by setting dietary preferences. If you have an Alexa device without a screen, there's a way to get personalized recipes for you too.

]]> Wed, 09 Aug 2023 14:15:23 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-set-alexa-dietary-preferences/ Pandora is one of the most popular streaming music services today, and you can listen to music and podcasts from Pandora on any Amazon Echo smart speaker.

]]> Tue, 08 Aug 2023 17:16:22 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-listen-to-pandora-amazon-echo/ A smart thermostat is one of the best ways to start building a smart home. Along with making it easy to control your home's heating and air conditioning, you can save money with lower energy usage.

]]> Sun, 06 Aug 2023 13:16:22 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/what-is-amazon-smart-thermostat/ Your Alexa isn’t only here for you, but for your dog too. Whether you have an energetic four-legged friend, a pup that scares easily, or you want your beloved pet to have some comfort whilst you’re out, Alexa has got you covered!

]]> Wed, 02 Aug 2023 17:45:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/alexa-features-skills-comfort-dog/ A door status sensor is one of the most important but often overlooked elements of home security. Door sensors are tiny devices that detect whether your door or window is open or closed and then send a signal to your smart home server.

]]> Tue, 01 Aug 2023 19:31:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/door-status-sensor-home-assistant/ Routines can completely transform the way you use your Amazon Echo. They take Alexa from a simple voice assistant to a smart home automation machine that can perform a near-infinite combination of actions.

]]> Tue, 01 Aug 2023 19:16:22 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/alexa-routines-for-every-part-of-your-day/ Battery backup systems prepare you for grid power problems like blackouts and power outages. These systems allow you to store energy for later use, helping reduce energy costs, dependence on grid electricity, and environmental impact.

]]> Tue, 01 Aug 2023 18:31:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/home-battery-backup-benefits/ Apple's Home app is the best way to control your HomeKit accessories with your iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, or Apple Watch. But what do you do if you have a vacation home, rental property, or want to manage a home for someone else?

]]> Tue, 01 Aug 2023 17:15:24 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-create-manage-multiple-homekit-homes/ Because smart home devices rely on wireless connections to function, they are exposed to remote attacks by default. This is why smart homes have become hacking targets in recent years. So, how are smart homes hacked, and how can you protect your own smart home from being exploited by malicious actors?

]]> Tue, 01 Aug 2023 14:31:22 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/protect-smart-home-from-hackers/ Casting to an Amazon Fire TV Stick is a handy option. It can help you stop straining your eyes to see the content on your tiny laptop or smartphone screen. You can view your laptop, smartphone, or tablet content on a TV screen connected to your Amazon Fire TV Stick.

]]> Tue, 01 Aug 2023 14:31:22 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-cast-to-fire-stick/ Have you ever been enjoying your favorite TV show or movie on your Amazon Fire TV Stick, only to be interrupted by an error message? If your Fire TV tells you that you don't have enough internal storage, you can add some by connecting a USB drive. We'll show you what you need, and the steps you'll take to fix the problem.

]]> Mon, 31 Jul 2023 14:10:00 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/how-to-add-storage-to-amazon-fire-tv-stick/ As an adult, you likely use smart gadgets in your everyday life to stay happy and healthy. However, kids can enjoy the benefits of smart technology, too. However, always remember that as a parent you should teach your children to have a balanced and healthy relationship with tech instead of relying on it completely.

]]> Sun, 30 Jul 2023 17:30:22 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/best-types-smart-gadgets-kids-happy-healthy/ Starting with the original Amazon Echo in 2014, the lineup of smart speakers with Alexa continues to expand.

]]> Sat, 29 Jul 2023 15:31:25 GMT https://www.makeuseof.com/tag/best-amazon-echo-device/