Latest news with #AmazonAlexa
Mint
a day ago
- Mint
5 things to consider while building a smart home
Thinking of turning your home into a smart one? Exciting, isn't it? The idea of staying in a space where a single command does most of the work is indeed tempting. But before you start buying gadgets left and right, you need to do: pause and plan. First thing you need to understand is that smart homes aren't just about cool tech. They're about creating a system that fits your lifestyle. Without the right setup, your devices might clash, your Wi-Fi might lag and the whole setup could end up more frustrating than convenient. But the good news here is that you don't need to be a tech expert to get it right. All it takes is 5 simple steps to build a smart home. Before diving into the world of smart home tech, device how much you're willing to spend. Start with a core space, like your living room, with a smart speaker, connected lights or a hub and scale gradually based on your needs. Buying everything upfront may seem convenient, but it comes with higher initial costs, reduced flexibility and limited opportunity to take advantage of ongoing discounts or newer models. Moreover, as you start using the devices, you'll better understand which features genuinely improve your day-to-day life. It's wiser to leave room in your budget for future upgrades because smart homes tend to evolve with their users. Get an efficient Wi-Fi system A smart home is only as smart as the network powering it. Every connected device, be it a video doorbell, smart thermostat or voice assistant, relies on your Wi-Fi to function smoothly. As you add more devices, the strain on your existing router increases, potentially leading to slower speeds, lag and unreliable connectivity. If you're still using a basic or outdated router, consider upgrading to a Wi-Fi 6 or Wi-Fi 7-enabled router, which offers better speed, efficiency and the ability to manage multiple devices simultaneously. Choose a smart home ecosystem Smart home devices usually work best within a specific ecosystem, for instance, Apple HomeKit, Google Home or Amazon Alexa. If your household uses a mix of Android and iOS, this decision might need a bit of discussion. You can mix platforms, but it's often simpler to stick to one, at least when starting out. While smartphones are the default for managing smart devices, many users prefer voice control through smart speakers for a hands-free experience. These can trigger multiple actions at once using routines. Physical controllers or smart buttons are also useful, especially for kids, guests, or anyone who prefers pressing a button over using an app. For a more seamless experience, it is advisable to combine a few control methods to make your smart home more accessible and intuitive for everyone. Using wired devices or wireless devices Smart devices often come in both wired and wireless variants. Battery-powered options, like outdoor cameras or doorbells, offer easy installation but require regular charging. Hardwired devices provide uninterrupted power and better reliability, though they may need a professional setup. The smart approach here is to mix and match, hardwire essential or permanent fixtures and go wireless where flexibility or ease of installation matters most.
Tom's Guide
a day ago
- Business
- Tom's Guide
Our favorite air purifier has dropped in price on Amazon — and it's just under $70
Summer is finally here, and while it may bring warmer temperatures, it also brings the inevitable allergies. And if, like me, you battle with daily sneezes or sniffles from hayfever, having one of the best air purifiers can make all the difference in filtering indoor pollutants such as pollen and dust. Granted, finding the best air purifier to suit your needs and home can be a costly investment, but luckily, we've spotted a great deal. Right now, and for limited-time only, the Levoit Core Smart Air Purifier 200S-P is on sale for just $69 from $89 at Amazon. That's a decent 22% discount — and at just under $70, makes it a great bargain. If you're after a compact yet powerful purifier that can handle mid-large spaces, this Levoit Core smart model is ideal. It comes with a three-stage filtration that captures 99.97% airborne particles and 99.99% viruses. In addition, it has an auto feature that scans the air for particles and adjusts the fan speed accordingly. Plus, it can send back real-time reports to your phone, for added convenience. Whether you're new to the world of air purifiers, or simply don't want to spend a fortune, this Levoit Core will give you great value for money. Although lightweight, it comes with a powerful, high-efficiency motor, that can clean and freshen the air in a 140 ft sq room within an hour. This is thanks to its advance 3-in-1 filter that can quickly handle pollen, dust, odors and any other airborne particles in the home, to help you breathe easily. Similar to another favorite, the Levoit Core 300S, this model rates high for performance, efficiency, and energy-saving. Another noteworthy feature is the Levoit Core is incredibly quiet, with noise levels as low as 26d. Which is ideal if you just want to relax in peace or don't wish to disturb anyone! For those who want to put their feet up, you can control it via the handy VeSync app anywhere around the home, where you can customize your settings and schedules. In addition, this will also give you useful information and readings about the quality of your air and offers voice assistance. It's also compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. What's more, with its sleek, modern design, it makes an attractive feature in any room. Since it's allergy season, it's not likely this cheap deal will stick around for too long — so you'd better grab it while it lasts!
Listly
2 days ago
- Listly
CONTACT US ROKU TV/ROKU TV PHONE SUPPORT +1(844)259*6248
Roku TV USA refers to smart TVs that have Roku's streaming platform built in. This means you don't need an extra streaming device. These TVs feature an easy-to-use interface, provide access to a wide variety of streaming content, and can connect to different smart home systems. What Is Roku TV? Roku TV is a smart television that uses the Roku operating system. It allows users to access many streaming services, live TV, and free content. Manufacturers like TCL, Hisense, Philips, and RCA make Roku TVs, offering different models in various sizes and resolutions, including 4K and HDR options. Key Features of Roku TV Built-in Streaming Platform: You don't need extra streaming devices; the Roku interface is included in the TV. Access to Over 500,000 Movies and TV Episodes: You can stream content from free and paid services. The Roku Channel: This is Roku's ad-supported streaming service that offers a variety of movies and TV shows. Live TV Options: You can watch live broadcasts and access free live TV channels. Voice Control Compatibility: Roku TV works with voice assistants like Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple Siri CONTACT US ROKU TV/ROKU TV PHONE SUPPORT +1(844)259*6248
Indianapolis Star
4 days ago
- Indianapolis Star
Beat the summer heat with hot savings on Dreo fans at Amazon
As summer days heat up here in Florida, staying cool has become a top priority in my household. Thankfully, I rely heavily on area fans as a fantastic way to achieve this while also saving money on energy bills. Their primary benefit is making you feel cooler, which helps you avoid the high energy costs associated with needing to significantly lower your air conditioning thermostat during those hot summer months. To boost your cooling and savings, now is a great time to check out Dreo fans. Dreo has been voted the #1 household fan for 2 years in a row on Amazon. This brand is known for powerful yet quiet airflow, making them perfect for any room. The best news? Dreo fans are on sale right now on Amazon, making it an excellent time to buy! We've put together some of our favorite deals below, so be sure to grab them now before these deals cool off. This small and mighty fan delivers far-reaching winds that go as far as 70 ft. Save 19% at Amazon This fan combines smart features with whole-room performance and the functionality of floor and table fans. Save 10% at Amazon More: Top 10 best early 4th of July patio furniture sales to shop now This standing fan offers 8 unique wind speeds and 3 powerful modes for all your comfort needs. Save 18% at Amazon This tower fan features display auto off, auto mute in sleep mode, an 8-hr timer and soothing airflow. Save 13% at Amazon More: Your ultimate 4th of July 2025 shopping guide: Epic sales, deals and where to shop now 🎆 This ultra-wide 120-degree cooling fan offers all the functions you need and can be operated using the remote control, Dreo app or by voice using Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. Save 10% at Amazon Funboy's summer sale is still live: Save 20% on floating coolers, paddle boards 💦 Dreo fans have become incredibly popular with many raving reviews on Amazon. Customer agree they offer a fantastic combination of super quiet operation and powerful airflow. They use special technology and motors to keep noise levels as low as a whisper while still moving a lot of air. People also love their smart features, like controlling them with an app or your voice (Alexa, Google Assistant). Many models even have an "Auto Mode" that intelligently adjusts the fan speed based on your room's temperature, saving you energy without you having to lift a finger. Plus, their sleek, modern design looks great in any room. Chill out! Get Shark's genius HydroGo fan and mister for 20% off at Amazon 💦 Dreo fans generally come with a 12-month limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, but you can often extend this warranty up to 30 months or even 5 years by registering your product on Dreo's official website. To claim service, you'll need your proof of purchase, and Dreo typically offers a free replacement for defective items rather than repairs. This warranty won't cover damage from misuse, unauthorized repairs, or normal wear and tear, so always make sure to keep your receipt and contact Dreo's customer support at support@ if you have any issues. New members can try one week of Amazon Prime benefits for just $1.99. After that, Prime costs $14.99 per month or $139 per year. The annual plan will save you about $40 total compared to paying monthly Sign up for an Amazon Prime membership to get exclusive perks and benefits all year. Join Amazon Prime
The Advertiser
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Advertiser
Have adults forgotten how to have fun? New Amazon research taps into the lost art of play with kids
These items are hand-picked to make your shopping experience easier. ACM may be provided with compensation from affiliate partners if you click through. The life of a parent is filled with responsibility - meeting daily schedules, completing household chores, putting food on the table, and teaching children how to live and function in this big, wide world. But sometimes, amid all the seriousness of responsibility, parents forget how to have fun. New research from Amazon Alexa reveals nearly half of Aussie parents (47 per cent) sometimes feel they have forgotten how to tap into their silly bone while navigating adult life and responsibilities, despite 81 per cent stating they feel more connected to kids during silly play. Consequently, scientific research has proved that play also acts to support relationships, increase cooperation, and foster positive long-term mental health for big and little minds. It can also fast-track brain development, reducing the synapse repetitions from 400 to just 10 to 20 repetitions when playfulness is involved. Incredibly, it takes just one minute of play a day to realise these benefits. According to the research from Amazon, household chores (71 per cent) are the biggest obstacle to play, followed by work (59 per cent), mental drain (48 per cent) and lack of time (48 per cent). To inspire Aussie families to balance play with "adulting", Amazon Alexa has introduced 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly, an experience designed to spark micro-moments of play. While over half of parents (51 per cent) admit to feeling stumped for silly things to do or say, they only need to say one thing to any Amazon Echo Device and that is - "Alexa, Let's Get Silly". The "Alexa, Let's Get Silly" prompt accesses four interactive experiences including, "Silly Dance Party" where Alexa remixes all her favourite original tracks so the family can bust their grooviest moves together, "Silly Tricks" where Alexa performs a funny voice, a zany impression, or a chorus of cats, "Silly Sound Quiz", where it's your kids' job to guess that blubbery, blobbery sound, and of course, "Silly Farts", the raucous game of flatulence that is not for the faint of heart. Parenting expert, Gen Muir stresses that playtime shouldn't feel like just another task on the to-do list, a sentiment echoed by one in two Aussie parents (49 per cent). With a large majority (80 per cent) feeling guilty about insufficient playtime, Muir emphasises that playfulness is a skill, not just a trait, and highlights 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' as a practical way for the 62 per cent of parents feeling less playful compared to when they were younger. "Parenting today is tough. From my experience as a parent, humour, laughter and being silly are among the most underrated parenting strategies. When a day is stuck, or the kids are not listening, even a minute of silly fun can be a lifeline for resetting the mood. Our children feel more connected to us, cooperation increases, endorphins are released and cortisol levels drop. "If getting ready for the day is a challenge or your evenings are being overtaken by household chores, 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' is the effortless fun generator for when you're frazzled and silly ideas vanish. I guarantee any joke about a "fart" will be a hit, as will an impromptu getting-dressed dance party", said Gen. Since two in five parents sometimes feel overwhelmed by advice on how they should engage in play (40 per cent), Muir encourages Aussies to keep it simple by using a tool like 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' and using these five tips: "1- Embrace micro-moments: Look for small pockets of time throughout the day - even 10 minutes - to be silly. It doesn't need to be a grand production; Alexa's Silly Tricks should do the trick! 2- Integrate play into routine tasks: Turn chores into games, dance while getting ready with the Silly Dance Party, or take the Silly Sound Quiz during mealtimes. 3- Follow your child's lead: Observe which silly experience most makes your child giggle - Silly Farts is a winner - and join in. Their interests are a great starting point for silly play. 4- Lower the stakes: Don't worry about being the "perfect" playful parent. Just be present and have fun. Imperfect silliness is often the most memorable. 5- Prioritise connection over perfection: Focus on the feeling of connection rather than achieving a specific outcome or educational goal during playtime. Silliness is enough." The 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' experience is available for Aussie customers to experience by saying 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' to any Amazon Echo device. The latest Amazon Echo 15 - a smart device and family organisation hub - is also available to purchase now on Amazon. Buy now for $549 on Amazon. These items are hand-picked to make your shopping experience easier. ACM may be provided with compensation from affiliate partners if you click through. The life of a parent is filled with responsibility - meeting daily schedules, completing household chores, putting food on the table, and teaching children how to live and function in this big, wide world. But sometimes, amid all the seriousness of responsibility, parents forget how to have fun. New research from Amazon Alexa reveals nearly half of Aussie parents (47 per cent) sometimes feel they have forgotten how to tap into their silly bone while navigating adult life and responsibilities, despite 81 per cent stating they feel more connected to kids during silly play. Consequently, scientific research has proved that play also acts to support relationships, increase cooperation, and foster positive long-term mental health for big and little minds. It can also fast-track brain development, reducing the synapse repetitions from 400 to just 10 to 20 repetitions when playfulness is involved. Incredibly, it takes just one minute of play a day to realise these benefits. According to the research from Amazon, household chores (71 per cent) are the biggest obstacle to play, followed by work (59 per cent), mental drain (48 per cent) and lack of time (48 per cent). To inspire Aussie families to balance play with "adulting", Amazon Alexa has introduced 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly, an experience designed to spark micro-moments of play. While over half of parents (51 per cent) admit to feeling stumped for silly things to do or say, they only need to say one thing to any Amazon Echo Device and that is - "Alexa, Let's Get Silly". The "Alexa, Let's Get Silly" prompt accesses four interactive experiences including, "Silly Dance Party" where Alexa remixes all her favourite original tracks so the family can bust their grooviest moves together, "Silly Tricks" where Alexa performs a funny voice, a zany impression, or a chorus of cats, "Silly Sound Quiz", where it's your kids' job to guess that blubbery, blobbery sound, and of course, "Silly Farts", the raucous game of flatulence that is not for the faint of heart. Parenting expert, Gen Muir stresses that playtime shouldn't feel like just another task on the to-do list, a sentiment echoed by one in two Aussie parents (49 per cent). With a large majority (80 per cent) feeling guilty about insufficient playtime, Muir emphasises that playfulness is a skill, not just a trait, and highlights 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' as a practical way for the 62 per cent of parents feeling less playful compared to when they were younger. "Parenting today is tough. From my experience as a parent, humour, laughter and being silly are among the most underrated parenting strategies. When a day is stuck, or the kids are not listening, even a minute of silly fun can be a lifeline for resetting the mood. Our children feel more connected to us, cooperation increases, endorphins are released and cortisol levels drop. "If getting ready for the day is a challenge or your evenings are being overtaken by household chores, 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' is the effortless fun generator for when you're frazzled and silly ideas vanish. I guarantee any joke about a "fart" will be a hit, as will an impromptu getting-dressed dance party", said Gen. Since two in five parents sometimes feel overwhelmed by advice on how they should engage in play (40 per cent), Muir encourages Aussies to keep it simple by using a tool like 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' and using these five tips: "1- Embrace micro-moments: Look for small pockets of time throughout the day - even 10 minutes - to be silly. It doesn't need to be a grand production; Alexa's Silly Tricks should do the trick! 2- Integrate play into routine tasks: Turn chores into games, dance while getting ready with the Silly Dance Party, or take the Silly Sound Quiz during mealtimes. 3- Follow your child's lead: Observe which silly experience most makes your child giggle - Silly Farts is a winner - and join in. Their interests are a great starting point for silly play. 4- Lower the stakes: Don't worry about being the "perfect" playful parent. Just be present and have fun. Imperfect silliness is often the most memorable. 5- Prioritise connection over perfection: Focus on the feeling of connection rather than achieving a specific outcome or educational goal during playtime. Silliness is enough." The 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' experience is available for Aussie customers to experience by saying 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' to any Amazon Echo device. The latest Amazon Echo 15 - a smart device and family organisation hub - is also available to purchase now on Amazon. Buy now for $549 on Amazon. These items are hand-picked to make your shopping experience easier. ACM may be provided with compensation from affiliate partners if you click through. The life of a parent is filled with responsibility - meeting daily schedules, completing household chores, putting food on the table, and teaching children how to live and function in this big, wide world. But sometimes, amid all the seriousness of responsibility, parents forget how to have fun. New research from Amazon Alexa reveals nearly half of Aussie parents (47 per cent) sometimes feel they have forgotten how to tap into their silly bone while navigating adult life and responsibilities, despite 81 per cent stating they feel more connected to kids during silly play. Consequently, scientific research has proved that play also acts to support relationships, increase cooperation, and foster positive long-term mental health for big and little minds. It can also fast-track brain development, reducing the synapse repetitions from 400 to just 10 to 20 repetitions when playfulness is involved. Incredibly, it takes just one minute of play a day to realise these benefits. According to the research from Amazon, household chores (71 per cent) are the biggest obstacle to play, followed by work (59 per cent), mental drain (48 per cent) and lack of time (48 per cent). To inspire Aussie families to balance play with "adulting", Amazon Alexa has introduced 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly, an experience designed to spark micro-moments of play. While over half of parents (51 per cent) admit to feeling stumped for silly things to do or say, they only need to say one thing to any Amazon Echo Device and that is - "Alexa, Let's Get Silly". The "Alexa, Let's Get Silly" prompt accesses four interactive experiences including, "Silly Dance Party" where Alexa remixes all her favourite original tracks so the family can bust their grooviest moves together, "Silly Tricks" where Alexa performs a funny voice, a zany impression, or a chorus of cats, "Silly Sound Quiz", where it's your kids' job to guess that blubbery, blobbery sound, and of course, "Silly Farts", the raucous game of flatulence that is not for the faint of heart. Parenting expert, Gen Muir stresses that playtime shouldn't feel like just another task on the to-do list, a sentiment echoed by one in two Aussie parents (49 per cent). With a large majority (80 per cent) feeling guilty about insufficient playtime, Muir emphasises that playfulness is a skill, not just a trait, and highlights 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' as a practical way for the 62 per cent of parents feeling less playful compared to when they were younger. "Parenting today is tough. From my experience as a parent, humour, laughter and being silly are among the most underrated parenting strategies. When a day is stuck, or the kids are not listening, even a minute of silly fun can be a lifeline for resetting the mood. Our children feel more connected to us, cooperation increases, endorphins are released and cortisol levels drop. "If getting ready for the day is a challenge or your evenings are being overtaken by household chores, 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' is the effortless fun generator for when you're frazzled and silly ideas vanish. I guarantee any joke about a "fart" will be a hit, as will an impromptu getting-dressed dance party", said Gen. Since two in five parents sometimes feel overwhelmed by advice on how they should engage in play (40 per cent), Muir encourages Aussies to keep it simple by using a tool like 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' and using these five tips: "1- Embrace micro-moments: Look for small pockets of time throughout the day - even 10 minutes - to be silly. It doesn't need to be a grand production; Alexa's Silly Tricks should do the trick! 2- Integrate play into routine tasks: Turn chores into games, dance while getting ready with the Silly Dance Party, or take the Silly Sound Quiz during mealtimes. 3- Follow your child's lead: Observe which silly experience most makes your child giggle - Silly Farts is a winner - and join in. Their interests are a great starting point for silly play. 4- Lower the stakes: Don't worry about being the "perfect" playful parent. Just be present and have fun. Imperfect silliness is often the most memorable. 5- Prioritise connection over perfection: Focus on the feeling of connection rather than achieving a specific outcome or educational goal during playtime. Silliness is enough." The 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' experience is available for Aussie customers to experience by saying 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' to any Amazon Echo device. The latest Amazon Echo 15 - a smart device and family organisation hub - is also available to purchase now on Amazon. Buy now for $549 on Amazon. These items are hand-picked to make your shopping experience easier. ACM may be provided with compensation from affiliate partners if you click through. The life of a parent is filled with responsibility - meeting daily schedules, completing household chores, putting food on the table, and teaching children how to live and function in this big, wide world. But sometimes, amid all the seriousness of responsibility, parents forget how to have fun. New research from Amazon Alexa reveals nearly half of Aussie parents (47 per cent) sometimes feel they have forgotten how to tap into their silly bone while navigating adult life and responsibilities, despite 81 per cent stating they feel more connected to kids during silly play. Consequently, scientific research has proved that play also acts to support relationships, increase cooperation, and foster positive long-term mental health for big and little minds. It can also fast-track brain development, reducing the synapse repetitions from 400 to just 10 to 20 repetitions when playfulness is involved. Incredibly, it takes just one minute of play a day to realise these benefits. According to the research from Amazon, household chores (71 per cent) are the biggest obstacle to play, followed by work (59 per cent), mental drain (48 per cent) and lack of time (48 per cent). To inspire Aussie families to balance play with "adulting", Amazon Alexa has introduced 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly, an experience designed to spark micro-moments of play. While over half of parents (51 per cent) admit to feeling stumped for silly things to do or say, they only need to say one thing to any Amazon Echo Device and that is - "Alexa, Let's Get Silly". The "Alexa, Let's Get Silly" prompt accesses four interactive experiences including, "Silly Dance Party" where Alexa remixes all her favourite original tracks so the family can bust their grooviest moves together, "Silly Tricks" where Alexa performs a funny voice, a zany impression, or a chorus of cats, "Silly Sound Quiz", where it's your kids' job to guess that blubbery, blobbery sound, and of course, "Silly Farts", the raucous game of flatulence that is not for the faint of heart. Parenting expert, Gen Muir stresses that playtime shouldn't feel like just another task on the to-do list, a sentiment echoed by one in two Aussie parents (49 per cent). With a large majority (80 per cent) feeling guilty about insufficient playtime, Muir emphasises that playfulness is a skill, not just a trait, and highlights 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' as a practical way for the 62 per cent of parents feeling less playful compared to when they were younger. "Parenting today is tough. From my experience as a parent, humour, laughter and being silly are among the most underrated parenting strategies. When a day is stuck, or the kids are not listening, even a minute of silly fun can be a lifeline for resetting the mood. Our children feel more connected to us, cooperation increases, endorphins are released and cortisol levels drop. "If getting ready for the day is a challenge or your evenings are being overtaken by household chores, 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' is the effortless fun generator for when you're frazzled and silly ideas vanish. I guarantee any joke about a "fart" will be a hit, as will an impromptu getting-dressed dance party", said Gen. Since two in five parents sometimes feel overwhelmed by advice on how they should engage in play (40 per cent), Muir encourages Aussies to keep it simple by using a tool like 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' and using these five tips: "1- Embrace micro-moments: Look for small pockets of time throughout the day - even 10 minutes - to be silly. It doesn't need to be a grand production; Alexa's Silly Tricks should do the trick! 2- Integrate play into routine tasks: Turn chores into games, dance while getting ready with the Silly Dance Party, or take the Silly Sound Quiz during mealtimes. 3- Follow your child's lead: Observe which silly experience most makes your child giggle - Silly Farts is a winner - and join in. Their interests are a great starting point for silly play. 4- Lower the stakes: Don't worry about being the "perfect" playful parent. Just be present and have fun. Imperfect silliness is often the most memorable. 5- Prioritise connection over perfection: Focus on the feeling of connection rather than achieving a specific outcome or educational goal during playtime. Silliness is enough." The 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' experience is available for Aussie customers to experience by saying 'Alexa, Let's Get Silly' to any Amazon Echo device. The latest Amazon Echo 15 - a smart device and family organisation hub - is also available to purchase now on Amazon. Buy now for $549 on Amazon.
