Smart home technology continues to captivate consumers with its promise of convenience and control. Imagine unlocking your front door with a simple tap on your phone, entering a well-lit home, or even requesting your virtual assistant to brew a fresh cup of coffee. For those who prefer the comfort of a laptop over a smartphone, there are effective ways to manage these devices directly from your computer.
5. Use the Home Remote App
Available for a one-time payment of
The Home Remote app serves as a centralized hub for managing all your smart devices. With a one-time cost of just , this app connects seamlessly to various devices such as smart lights, locks, thermostats, cameras, and speakers. It boasts a comprehensive control interface, offering everything from basic buttons to advanced grid controls. However, it’s worth noting that some popular brands, including Ring and Nest, are not supported. A full compatibility list can be found on the developer’s website.
4. Try SmartThings for Windows
It comes with some limitations, though
SmartThings, a robust platform acquired by Samsung in 2014, supports over 100 brands and more than 1,000 devices. This app is compatible with most Windows PCs, not limited to Samsung devices. While it allows users to manage rooms and toggle devices on or off, it does have restrictions. Users cannot access device details or create new automation directly through the app. Nevertheless, it remains a valuable tool for existing SmartThings users.
3. Use Phone Link
If you don’t mind keeping your phone unlocked
Microsoft’s Phone Link app enables users to mirror their Android apps on a PC, providing a unique way to control smart home applications that lack native Windows versions. After setup, users can easily access their apps within a pop-up window. However, the requirement for the phone to remain unlocked may be a minor inconvenience for those seeking quick access.
2. Visit Google Home Web Dashboard
Useful if you set automation on your phone
The Google Home Web Dashboard is optimized for larger screens, allowing users to monitor multiple Nest camera feeds simultaneously. Although direct control of devices isn’t available, users can trigger automations set up on their phones. The dashboard also includes a script editor for creating advanced routines, which can enhance the automation experience beyond what the mobile app offers.
1. Download Alexa for Windows
Works with almost any smart home device you can imagine
Amazon’s Alexa ecosystem remains a favorite for many smart home enthusiasts due to its extensive compatibility with various devices, from smart locks to LED bulbs. As the only voice assistant available on Windows PCs, Alexa offers users a convenient way to manage their smart home setup. Although it’s not readily available in the Microsoft Store, the app can still be downloaded via a direct link.
While controlling smart home devices from a Windows PC is straightforward, it may not provide the same depth of control as mobile applications. For those looking to elevate their smart home management, exploring options like a Proxmox-powered Home Assistant server or repurposing an old laptop as a smart home hub could be worthwhile endeavors.
