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Latest by Jon Bitner

Tech of the Week Ring Grinch

Bring the Grinch to your front door with new Ring Quick Replies

Ring is adding several Quick Replies to its video doorbells, all of which are inspired by The Grinch. Here's a look at all six dialogue options.
The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (Gen 2) with the Privacy Shield enabled.

Arlo Essential Indoor Camera Gen 1 vs. Arlo Essential Indoor Camera Gen 2

The updated Arlo Essential Indoor Camera offers a few perks not found on its predecessor, but should you replace your existing cameras? Here's what to know.
The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (Gen 2) with the Privacy Shield enabled.

How to use the Privacy Shield on Arlo cameras

Many Arlo cameras use a Privacy Shield to physically block the lens from capturing footage. Here's how to activate and deactivate the useful feature.
bring the grinch to your front door with new ring quick replies totw doorbell feature
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Bring the Grinch to your front door with new Ring Quick Replies

Ring is adding several Quick Replies to its video doorbells, all of which are inspired by The Grinch. Here's a look at all six dialogue options.
An Amazon smart display on a kitchen counter.

Alexa adds new features to help with your holiday shopping

Amazon is rolling out new features to Alexa, allowing you to scan handwritten shopping lists to the app and get instant access to the best deals.
The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro on display the 2023 Amazon Fall Devices and Services event.

Tapo C120 vs. Ring Stick Up Cam Pro: is the expensive Ring security camera worth it?

The Tapo C120 is a budget-friendly security camera suitable for use in all environments. But does it outcompete the premium and pricier Ring Stick Up Cam Pro?
Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera

How to add Arlo cameras to Apple HomeKit

It's possible to add Arlo cameras to Apple HomeKit, though there are a few quirks to keep in mind. Here's how the process works.
Astro for Business in patrol mode.

Amazon Astro gets a day job with Astro for Business

Astro for Business is designed to help keep small businesses safe and shares many similarities with Amazon Astro. Here's a look at the newly released robot.
The Tapo C120 installed on a fence.

The TP-Link Tapo C120 is an affordable security camera designed for all environments

The TP-Link Tapo C120 costs $40, offers 2K video capture, and supports microSD cards. Here's a closer look at the indoor/outdoor camera.
The Arlo Total Security package on a blue background.

Arlo enhances home security offerings with new Arlo Total Security plans

The Arlo Total Security plans are all-in-one solutions for home security, offering professional monitoring and required hardware for as low as $10 per month.
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 installed near a door.

Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen vs. Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2

The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is a powerful smart home gadget, but how does it compare to the new Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen? Here's what you need to know.
A person holding the SwitchBot K10+ robot vacuum.

The SwitchBot Mini Robot Vacuum K10+ is designed for cramped rooms and tight spaces

The SwitchBot Mini Robot Vacuum K10+ might not be as large as the competition, but it's not lacking in premium features. Here's a look at the quirky robot.
The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen in the rain.

Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen vs. Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell: Which is best?

The new Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen is available in two formats, but is either one better than the existing Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell?
The Arlo Essential 2nd Gen mounted outside.

Arlo Essential 2nd Gen vs. Arlo Pro 4: is the Arlo Pro 4 worth it?

The Arlo Essential 2nd Gen Camera is a new addition to the Arlo catalog, but is it better than the existing Arlo Pro 4? Here's a closer look.
The Emporia Smart Plug with a cable attached.

Emporia resolves issue with Smart Plugs that spurred recall

A voluntary recall impacts a large portion of Emporia Smart Plugs, though there are currently no known injuries or damage caused by faulty products.
Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera

Arlo Essential XL 2nd Gen vs. Arlo Pro 4: Which is the better security camera?

The new Arlo Essential XL 2nd Gen offers incredible battery life, but is it better than the Arlo Pro 4? Here's a look at both to help you decide.
The Wyze Video Doorbell v2 installed near a front door.

Wyze Video Doorbell v2 vs. Wyze Video Doorbell Pro

The new Wyze Video Doorbell v2 is much cheaper than the Wyze Video Doorbell Pro, but is it actually a better product? Here's a closer look at both.
Several Ecobee security products on a green background.

Is an Ecobee Smart Security subscription worth it?

Ecobee offers two different plans for its security systems. But which one is best for your home? Here's a look at both to help you decide.
Apple HomePod 2023

Echo Pop vs. HomePod (Gen 2): is the HomePod worth its added cost?

Is the expensive Apple HomePod worth your money, or should you stick with the affordable Echo Pop? Here's a look at these two smart speakers to help you decide.
A blue Echo Pop sitting on a table.

Echo Pop vs. HomePod mini: which is the best smart speaker?

The Echo Pop is a great smart speaker for its price, but how does it compare to the premium HomePod mini? Here's a look at both to help guide your purchase.
The Ring Outdoor Smart Plug installed outside.

Can smart plugs be used outside?

Smart plugs are a great way to control exterior lights and decorations, but not all of them can be used outside. Here's what to know before using them outdoors.
iRobot Roomba j7 plus 7550 robot vacuum in charging dock by entryway.

How often should you replace your robot vacuum?

Robot vacuums are designed to last for several years, though their longevity relies on regular maintenance. Here's how often you should think about upgrading.
The Wyze Video Doorbell v2 installed near a front door.

New Wyze Video Doorbell v2 offers microSD card slot, 2K resolution for just $40

The Wyze Video Doorbell v2 is a big improvement over its predecessor, offering a microSD slot, 2K video capture, and a budget-friendly price.
A stylized version of a smart home with various rooms containing smart home gadgets.

Matter adds support for fridges, air purifiers, robot vacuums, and more with massive 1.2 update

The Matter 1.2 update is now available, bringing the interoperability standard to nine new device types -- including robot vacuums, air purifiers, and more.
Blueair Blue Pure 211 plus HEPA air purifier in living room.

Do air purifiers work?

Since you won't want to open doors and windows in the winter, air purifiers are a great way to keep your air fresh. But are they worth the investment?
Apple HomePod 2023

Alexa vs. HomeKit: Which smart home platform is best?

Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit are two of the best smart home platforms available, but which is best for your home? Here's a closer look to help you decide.
The Numi 2.0 Smart Toilet

The 5 weirdest smart home gadgets of 2023

From smart toilets to smart toasters, here's a look at five of the weirdest smart home gadgets you can purchase in 2023.
A Ring Video Doorbell next to Halloween decorations.

Ring celebrates Halloween by adding spooky Quick Replies to its video doorbells

Spooky Halloween Quick Replies are now available for Ring Video Doorbells, including a werewolf's howl and a witch brewing in a cauldron.
The Ecovacs Deebot X1 Omni cleaning hardwood floors.

How to fix a robot vacuum that stops moving

There are several reasons your robot vacuum might not be moving. From checking its wheels to updating its software, here are all the ways to fix the problem.
The Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera install near a door.

Ecobee takes on Ring, Arlo with its first smart doorbell camera

The Ecobee Smart Doorbell Camera is the company's first video doorbell, featuring a generous viewing angle and premium materials.
The iRobot j9+ cleaning a floor and retracting its mop.

Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni vs. iRobot Roomba Combo j9+: Which premium robot vacuum is best?

If you're looking for a premium robot vacuum and mop combo, the Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni and iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ fit the bill. But which is best?
The Roborock S8 Pro Ultra in a kitchen.

Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni vs. Roborock S8 Pro Ultra: Which is the best robot vacuum?

It's impossible to go wrong with either the Ecovacs X2 Omni or Roborock S8 Pro Ultra, but is one better for your smart home than the other? Here's what to know.
nanoleaf reveals matter smart lamps cono lamp

Nanoleaf reveals four new Matter devices, including two smart lamps

Nanoleaf is launching two Matter-enabled smart lamps in the coming months, as well as two other products for its Essentials lineup.
The X2 Omni dock up against a wall.

Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni vs. Ecovacs Deebot T20 Omni: Is the new X2 Omni worth it?

The Ecovacs Deebot X2 Omni is a better robot vacuum than the Deebot T20 Omni, but does it justify its hefty price tag? Here's what you need to know.