smart home Archives

AppWizard

May 3, 2025

This one app has made my life easier and my wife happier

The author has at least 35 different smart home devices, leading to a fragmented experience with multiple apps and services. They are considering using Home Assistant as a central hub for device control, which supports various protocols like Matter, Thread, Zigbee, HomeKit, and Nest. Home Assistant can be installed easily on devices like Raspberry Pi or Virtual Machines, requiring a constant network connection. Once set up, it consolidates controls into one interface, allowing for custom dashboards and automations. Recent developments, such as Google discontinuing support for older Nest Thermostats, have prompted users to seek alternatives like Home Assistant for a unified control experience. The introduction of customizable lock screen shortcuts in Android 14 allows users to replace the Google Home app with Home Assistant. Users are encouraged to start simple and gradually expand their system.

AppWizard

April 30, 2025

Today’s Android app deals and freebies: ARIDA, Nanuleu, The Past Within, more

A selection of deals for Android games and applications has emerged, offering significant savings on devices and accessories. The Galaxy S25 Ultra is available at a discount of [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: This afternoon, a fresh selection of enticing deals for Android games and applications has emerged, offering a delightful opportunity for users to enhance their digital experiences. Among the noteworthy offerings in the Google Play store, tech enthusiasts will find significant savings on a range of devices and accessories. Device Discounts Leading the charge is a remarkable 0 discount on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a high-performance smartphone without breaking the bank. Additionally, the Pixel Watch 2 is available at a rare price point of 0 off, providing a stylish and functional wearable for tech aficionados. In the realm of accessories, discounts on Pebblebee Universal Clip and Card item trackers are also making waves, ensuring that users can keep track of their belongings with ease. Furthermore, Amazon's Echo Show 5 smart display is seeing a solid reduction in price, enhancing the smart home experience for consumers. App Highlights Turning our attention to the app landscape, several standout titles are worth exploring. Highlights include: ARIDA: Backland’s Awakening - An immersive adventure that invites players to explore a beautifully crafted world. Nanuleu - A unique strategy game that challenges players to cultivate and protect their environment. The Past Within - A captivating narrative experience that intertwines puzzles and storytelling. Bright Memory: Infinite - A visually stunning action game that combines fast-paced gameplay with breathtaking graphics. These selections, along with a variety of other deals, present a fantastic opportunity for Android users to elevate their gaming and app experiences. The current offerings are a testament to the vibrant ecosystem of technology and creativity that continues to thrive in the digital marketplace." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"], and the Pixel Watch 2 is also priced at [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: This afternoon, a fresh selection of enticing deals for Android games and applications has emerged, offering a delightful opportunity for users to enhance their digital experiences. Among the noteworthy offerings in the Google Play store, tech enthusiasts will find significant savings on a range of devices and accessories. Device Discounts Leading the charge is a remarkable 0 discount on the Galaxy S25 Ultra, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a high-performance smartphone without breaking the bank. Additionally, the Pixel Watch 2 is available at a rare price point of 0 off, providing a stylish and functional wearable for tech aficionados. In the realm of accessories, discounts on Pebblebee Universal Clip and Card item trackers are also making waves, ensuring that users can keep track of their belongings with ease. Furthermore, Amazon's Echo Show 5 smart display is seeing a solid reduction in price, enhancing the smart home experience for consumers. App Highlights Turning our attention to the app landscape, several standout titles are worth exploring. Highlights include: ARIDA: Backland’s Awakening - An immersive adventure that invites players to explore a beautifully crafted world. Nanuleu - A unique strategy game that challenges players to cultivate and protect their environment. The Past Within - A captivating narrative experience that intertwines puzzles and storytelling. Bright Memory: Infinite - A visually stunning action game that combines fast-paced gameplay with breathtaking graphics. These selections, along with a variety of other deals, present a fantastic opportunity for Android users to elevate their gaming and app experiences. The current offerings are a testament to the vibrant ecosystem of technology and creativity that continues to thrive in the digital marketplace." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"] off. Discounts are available on Pebblebee Universal Clip and Card item trackers, and the Amazon Echo Show 5 smart display has a price reduction. Notable app highlights include ARIDA: Backland’s Awakening, Nanuleu, The Past Within, and Bright Memory: Infinite.

Winsage

April 18, 2025

7 things you can do with your old Windows 10 PC instead of trading it in

Microsoft is encouraging users to transition from Windows 10 to Windows 11 and suggests trading in old PCs that cannot be upgraded. However, trading in may not provide significant discounts, and there are various ways to repurpose old hardware. 1. Install Linux: Linux distributions like Ubuntu and Pop! OS can extend the life of older PCs due to their low system requirements and long-term support. 2. Make it a retro gaming machine: Using Emulation Station, an old PC can be transformed into a retro gaming machine, allowing access to thousands of classic games. 3. Make it a media server: Old PCs can be converted into home media servers using platforms like Plex and Jellyfin, enabling offline viewing of shows and movies. 4. Use it as a game server: An old PC can host game servers for titles like Minecraft, allowing for a unique gaming experience with friends. 5. Power your smart home: Turning an old PC into a Home Assistant server can help manage smart home devices from a single interface. 6. Turn it into a NAS: An old PC can be transformed into a Network Attached Storage (NAS) solution for centralized data backup across multiple devices. 7. Kickstart your home lab: Setting up a home lab using dedicated operating systems or platforms like Docker can turn an old PC into a multifunctional server for various services.

AppWizard

April 16, 2025

Google could give the Home app a spring clean with these changes (APK teardown)

The latest version of the Google Home app for Android (version 3.32.69.1) includes several user interface enhancements. The settings menu has been integrated into the Google account menu in the top right corner, removing the need for a separate settings tab. A new floating action button for scanning QR codes has been added within the devices tab, simplifying the setup process for Matter-enabled devices. Additionally, a search button has been implemented in the favorites tab, allowing users to search for specific devices or actions. These updates aim to improve user experience and streamline smart home management.

AppWizard

April 16, 2025

The Google Home app seemingly has a few small changes for its UI in the works

Google is enhancing its Home app to simplify smart device management with user interface modifications. Upcoming updates will include a dedicated QR scanner in the Devices tab and a search bar in the Favorites section. In December, Google began a Public Preview test for the "Help me create" feature, which uses Gemini AI to help users automate their smart home systems by defining a Starter, Condition, and Action. Additionally, a separate Public Preview test for "Gemini in Assistant" aims to improve responses for Nest devices, allowing users to interrupt or request clarification from the Assistant.

Tech Optimizer

April 15, 2025

5 reasons I regret not deploying my own home firewall sooner

A hardware firewall enhances network security by monitoring and filtering all traffic, preventing unauthorized access based on pre-defined rules, and analyzing traffic patterns for anomalies. It employs Next-Generation Firewall technology for deep packet inspection, utilizes GeoIP restrictions, and runs Intrusion Prevention/Detection Systems (IPS/IDS). Implementing a Zero Trust architecture minimizes device access, and notifications alert users to new device connections. Segregating IoT devices onto a dedicated VLAN reduces security risks. A multi-layered security approach, including rules-based and deep packet inspection, is essential for comprehensive protection. Hardware firewalls often run on Linux or FreeBSD, allowing additional functionalities like ad blocking through services such as Pi-hole. Cataloging devices improves troubleshooting and network management. The adoption of hardware firewalls is increasingly necessary due to the rise of connected devices in homes.

AppWizard

April 14, 2025

Google Removes Assistant Settings from Android App: Here’s What’s Changing

Google is removing direct access to Assistant settings from the Google app on Android devices as part of a strategy to transition users to its AI-powered platform, Gemini. Users will now need to use the Google Home app or system settings to manage Assistant preferences. This change was implemented in Google App version 16.12, where the Google Assistant option was removed from the profile menu settings. Features previously accessible through the Google app, such as routines and voice settings, will now require navigation through the new methods. The rollout of Gemini is occurring in phases, starting with Pixel smartphones.

AppWizard

April 13, 2025

Google app removing Assistant settings on Android

The Google app version 16.12+ has removed the link to "Google Assistant" from the profile menu under Settings, affecting how users access Assistant settings. Users can still manage Assistant settings through the Google Home app or by navigating through System Settings on their mobile device. Some users have also noted that "Gemini" is not present in the Google app settings, which primarily focuses on Google Search functionalities.

AppWizard

March 25, 2025

20 advanced Android 15 tips

Android 15 introduces several enhancements for user experience, including: - Notification Cooldown feature to manage alerts more effectively. - Modes system for tailoring device settings based on context (work, leisure, rest). - Separation of Samsung’s Quick Settings and notification panels for streamlined access. - Private Space feature for safeguarding selected applications within the app drawer. - App pair feature for running two applications side by side. - Transformation of Samsung's Android app drawer for improved navigation. - New Home Control screen saver for managing connected devices. - Expanded volume panel for customizing audio output. - Improved contrast controls for better visibility and accessibility across interfaces.

Winsage

March 18, 2025

Gaming on Windows on Arm is getting pretty cool

Linux offers a variety of distributions, each with unique features, such as NixOS, Pop_OS! for Nvidia compatibility, Debian for stability, and lightweight options like Q4OS. Many individuals rely on a few fingers for typing despite formal training, questioning the efficiency of using all ten fingers. Windows 11 integrates OneDrive for backing up essential folders, which some users find cumbersome. QD-OLED monitors can experience burn-in, affecting visuals after a year of use. The Dell Inspiron 8500 is often remembered as a first laptop that sparked interest in technology. The rollout of Windows 11 version 24H2 has users debating whether to upgrade, with some preferring to wait for broader availability. Alternatives to Windows File Explorer, such as OneCommander and Total Commander, are being explored by users. The purchase of a first graphics card, like the GTX 760, marks a significant moment in PC building for many. Music streaming preferences vary among users, with platforms like Spotify and YouTube Music being popular choices. Content creators often prefer tools like Greenshot for capturing screenshots due to reliability. Linux desktop environments, such as KDE, allow for aesthetic customization. Transforming an old PC into a smart home hub can enhance living spaces by integrating devices. The first app installed on a new system often reflects personal habits, with browsers like Firefox or gaming platforms like Steam being common choices.