Latest news with #smartDevices
Android Authority
5 days ago
- Android Authority
NFC just got a serious range boost, and your next smartwatch is going to love it
Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority TL;DR The new NFC Release 15 specification increases range from 5mm to up to 2cm, making alignment less critical to initiating a compliant connection. This extended range will make NFC connections quicker and more reliable in the future, especially for smaller devices like smart watches and smart rings. It also introduces support for the NFC Digital Product Passport (NDPP), allowing phones to serve as payment terminals. Unless you're picking up something in the extreme budget range, most Android phones come with NFC these days. NFC, short for Near Field Communication, is handy for contactless payments and other short-range proximity-based use cases. This short-range is getting an upgrade with the NFC Forum's latest NFC Release 15 specification. The highlight of this NFC Release 15 specification is its extended range for certified compliant NFC contactless connections, going from the current 5mm to up to 2cm, which is a 4x increase. This may seem like a tiny change, but this extended range means that NFC chips on devices needn't be as precisely aligned as they currently need to be. This would allow NFC connections to start sooner, making the process quicker and more reliable, especially on smaller form factor devices like smartwatches and smart rings. The range is still very short, and you still need a fair amount of user intent to initiate a connection. Still, you needn't awkwardly dance your wrist around on the payment terminal to make a payment, as both devices will have a wider acceptable area for the connection handshake. Wait, but aren't there devices already operating at 2cm distance? Yes, there are, and this spec release creates a standard for more of them to come up, ensuring they continue to play nice with each other. Oliver Cragg / Android Authority Another highlight is the support for the NFC Digital Product Passport (NDPP) standard, which allows you to use your mobile phone as a payment terminal instead of requiring a dedicated device. More technically, the standard includes a data-agnostic framework that allows a single NFC tag embedded in a product to store and transmit both standard and extended DPP data using common NFC Data Exchange Format (NDEF) records. NFC Release 15 will be made available to adopter-level members and the public sometime in Fall 2025, and the certification compliance process will also begin then. Higher-level NFC Forum members can already download the Technical Specifications for this NFC Release 15. As you can imagine, products compatible with the specification will take a while to reach the market, but I am optimistic about the future. Got a tip? Talk to us! Email our staff at Email our staff at news@ . You can stay anonymous or get credit for the info, it's your choice.
CNET
6 days ago
- CNET
I Can't Stop Using 6 Smart Devices Even After I Finished Testing Them
Smart devices come and go all the time in my home. After all, as a smart home editor there's always something new to test and old devices to replace or switch back to my preferred options. But sometimes, smart tech surprises me -- and sticks around. These are the home tech devices I tested in 2025 that are still a part of my home, because of usability, superior features compared to what I had before, or how they fill a perfect niche where something was missing. Take a look and see if any should be part of your house, too. Read more: Unlock Your Home's Potential with My Favorite Smart Home Apps Emporia smart plug Emporia's smart plug on a wood table. Tyler Lacoma/CNET The classic smart plug is a simple affair, a plug-in device that can automate and schedule on-off features for whatever you plug into it, like a lamp, coffeemaker or fountain. Emporia's model is a plug (15A) that goes a step beyond with its in-depth energy management functions, helping you save on electricity use. The smart plug even has a largely unique feature that lets you tailor on-off functions to match non-peak electricity usage hours. If your utility charges more for peak hour use, that's an easy way to save money on larger appliances. Plus, you can always go in and examine detailed charts of energy use by the hour, day, week or month. I also like how you can quickly sign in with logins like your Google account so setup is fairly effortless. I have been using this smart plug on a standalone heater, but it's time for a switch soon, possibly to an air purifier to see just how much electricity it's using throughout the day. The possibilities are everywhere with a plug like this. Aqara Climate Sensor W100 Aqara's sensor is portable, useful and has many automation options I'm still experimenting with. Tyler Lacoma/CNET I'm already a fan of satellite sensors for smart thermostats, which let the thermostat react to the temperature in what specific spot the sensor is placed. But this Aqara climate sensor does even more. Right out of the box it starts sensing temperature and humidity wherever you put it. That's great for checking air quality levels in spots where I'm curious about monitoring conditions, like the bedroom. The sensor is also Matter-ready for broad compatibility with Apple Home, Alexa and Google Home if you don't want to use the Aqara app. With compatible devices (like an Aqara thermostat or compatibility smart plug) it can also trigger certain automations, a feature I'm excited about and still experimenting with, working to connect it to my thermostat or supported smart plug humidifier. I'm also interested to see what information the sensor offers as seasons change, such as a room that gets particularly dry or too hot in the summer. Google Nest Cam floodlight The Google Nest floodlight cam is so useful I haven't bothered taking it down yet. Tyler Lacoma/CNET I originally started testing the Google Nest Cam floodlight model in conjunction with my review of the ADT Plus security platform. That testing and the ADT system are long gone, but I kept on using the Nest Cam floodlight in my backyard via the Google Home app (where I can also see my doorbell at the same time). The LED brightness was easy to manage (and very bright at higher settings), the magnetic base made the cam simple to angle in just the right way, and Google's free AI object detection remains one of my favorites. What's not to love? Well, fair warning -- you do need to wire the camera in, and wiring work on a ladder isn't exactly fun so prepare accordingly. Also, this is a particularly pricey high-end camera: You get what you pay for, but you may also think about waiting until a sale brings it down to around $200. Echo Show 8 (3rd gen) A smart display can do far more than just timers -- but it's so handy! Tyler Lacoma/CNET What makes a smart display any better than a smart speaker if you don't plan on watching many videos? For me, it's the on-display information I can check at a glance. In the kitchen, where my Echo Show 8 lives, that usually means checking recipe details or juggling multiple timers so I can see how much time is left with just a look, something a speaker just can't do. Also, those extra video features can grow on you. Watching a news roundup in the morning while grabbing tea or coffee can become an easy habit. The same is true of sports highlights, a music video you really want to see or a social media you have to see to get the joke. If you're more app-focused around the house, setting up an iPad also works well (it's just more expensive). SnapPower Guidelight 2 nightlight These outlets come in a variety of designs and shades to match your home, too. SnapPower When I first experimented with this auto-dimming nightlight, I assumed I'd go back to my old nightlight after I finished. But the Guidelight 2 kept on being a useful light. Built into the outlet cover itself, it frees up an outlet for use (for a laptop charger, in my case). The dimming function means the LED lights only turn on as it starts getting dark, and will brighten the darker the room grows. The original LED light was a little harsh, but there's a tiny switch to change it to a warmer color that's ideal for a home nightlight. I was left without any complaints. SwitchBot leak detector SwitchBot's leak detector is a little larger, but Wi-Fi ready and easy to place within minutes. Tyler Lacoma/CNET I've always been a fan of leak detectors that perform a quiet but serious service in homes and connect to apps for remote alerts so you know if there's something wrong even when you aren't at home. That's useful for any kind of flooding, but my SwitchBot version has a permanent place under the kitchen sink, where I've had leaking problems before. SwitchBot's model is a little bulky compared to some detectors, but it has an onboard siren as well as a Wi-Fi connection for the app, and it's simple to set up. Once it's in place, I don't have to worry about it until the worst happens -- or I get a "replace-battery" alert in a few years. If we've whetted your smart home appetite, stop by our guides for the best smart home devices, check out how much a smart thermostat can save you and learn what the best home security cameras are.
CNET
14-06-2025
- CNET
8 Reasons Your Smart Home Device Isn't Working and How to Fix It
The smart home is complex. It has multiple devices, often multiple apps and a variety of wireless connections all working together with additional devices such as your phone and router. It's no surprise that problems can crop up, especially when you're trying to set up a new device. I have far too much personal experience with these issues in my years of smart home testing. From failed connections to disappearing features, I've seen it all. Some problems are obvious, like you forgot to turn the power on (I've seen so many kinds of power buttons, even I get confused). But most of them frustrate people like us because there's no clear solution. Here are the steps I've found are most helpful in understanding what's going wrong and fixing it ASAP. Everything needs a full reboot A tiny, LED indicator light lets you know the status of your smart plug and if it's rebooting or shut down. Molly Price/CNET "Turn it off and on again" is sage advice for a reason. A full reboot of everything helps devices shake off bugs, realign connections and start working like they should. When a serious smart home problem occurs, there's a lot to shut down. At minimum, try powering off the smart home device itself, either with a reset button or by unplugging it for a while, and fully closing the smart home app you are using, then bringing them both back. It's also a good idea to reboot the device you're on (like your smartphone or tablet) and your Wi-Fi router, so everything gets a fresh start. A firmware update is waiting Firmware updates can solve many problems, especially when first settting up a device. Tyler Lacoma/CNET Firmware refers to important updates that smart home devices download from the internet to improve the way they work, fix bugs and enable new features. Some download firmware updates automatically -- but most don't without permission. Head into the home app settings, where you should find a firmware update check. It could also be under device management and similar menu sections. Often, this is exactly what a device needs to start working properly. Remember, if you're setting up a new smart home device, once it connects to your Wi-Fi it will probably need to download a few firmware updates and reboot itself. That can take a while, and not all apps are good at showing that firmware updates are still happening in the background. Until all these updates complete, key features may not work. The app needs to 'forget' the smart device Sometimes removing a device from an app and adding it back in fixes your problem. Tyler Lacoma/CNET Smart home apps have options -- usually buttons with plus signs -- to add new devices, which is one of the first things you do if a device isn't automatically detected. But you can also select an added device and make the app forget it. When an app forgets a device, that means you have to set it up all over again. However, this type of soft reboot can often solve problems, like connections that aren't connecting or camera feeds that are getting dropped. Device interactions don't exist (yet) Echo Shows can link to video footage, but that's not usually true of the Alexa app itself. Eufy/Amazon Smart devices aren't trying to deceive, but a tangled web they still weave (of interconnected devices), and sometimes we think they can do something they can't. I've seen this with the broad smart home platforms that work with many kinds of devices, like Apple Home, Google Home and Alexa. These big platforms cover a lot of ground and are improving as the Matter standard expands, but they still have their limitations. A couple of common examples come to mind. Some device capabilities may work with an Amazon Echo Show, but not on the Amazon Alexa app itself, like looking out of certain security cameras. That can confuse new users. Or you may find, as I have, that even Matter-enabled smart locks offer features on their own apps like geofencing or automatic locking that won't show up if you connect them to the Apple Home app. These compatibility issues are getting better over time, but they still exist. If nothing is working, I recommend carefully seeing if the interaction you expected just doesn't work that way. Battery life needs some attention The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro's battery can last several months, but frequent activations can catch you with unexpected battery issues. CNET/Tyler LAcoma I know, I know, battery life is one of the obvious things that you should notice -- but it's surprisingly how often even I forget to check battery life before trying to use a device. Remember, sometimes batteries need time to charge up before you first start using the device. If you aren't sure what the battery life is, you can always check it by exploring the device in the app, which should have a section or icon showing battery life. Also check that you're charging the right way with a proper connector and adapter. Otherwise, the battery may not be getting any juice at all. Features are locked behind a subscription Blink's person detection works well enough, but it's a subscription-only feature. CNET/Tyler Lacoma I frequently need to double-check if the features that I'm testing aren't available unless I get a free trial or pay for a subscription to the device. This problem is more common in some smart homes than others. Home security systems and home security cameras, for example, often put features behind a paywall, like AI object detection, professional monitoring, cloud video storage, compatibility with additional devices, more advanced phone notifications and a whole lot more. The good news is that you can find plenty of AI monitoring for free and many security cameras that don't require subscriptions to use. But you should double check before you buy to see what is and isn't included if you don't want to pay monthly fees. You need another Wi-Fi band or router A mesh router or extender may help you fix connection issues. Google If your device is constantly dropping connections or refusing to communicate with your app, try moving the device and any smart hub it's using closer to your Wi-Fi router. Many smart devices require using the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi band, but if your device doesn't care then try switching to the 5GHz band, which is farther-reaching and often less crowded. If steps like these fix your connection problems, think about getting a Wi-Fi extender or a mesh router to expand your coverage. Then you can use smart devices where you really want them, like a cam in the driveway or a leak detector by a water tank, without worrying that they won't work. For more problem solving in home tech, check out my guides on cutting down the number of smart home apps you need, how to get rid of annoying home app alerts, when you need a new security system and what everyone should know about home hacking.
Digital Trends
03-06-2025
- Business
- Digital Trends
This wild-looking Wyze security camera is powered by your light fixtures
Wyze has just launched one of the most bizarre-looking smart home devices I've ever seen. The Wyze Bulb Cam is a combination smart light bulb and smart security camera, and it's every bit as wild as you'd expect. However, it also packs in some really cool functionality, as it's entirely powered by your light fixture. Jokingly referred to as a 'cambulbera' by Wyze, the Bulb Cam is an outdoor security camera that doubles as a smart light. Featuring a fairly standard bulb format that screws into most fixtures, an adjustable camera is attached to the bulb that can manually extend, rotate, and tilt to help you find the best view for your property. A 160-degree field-of-view gives you impressive coverage, while the dimmable 800 lumen LED bulb lights up your property. Recommended Videos Toss in a microSD card slot, two-way audio, a 2K resolution, and support for the Wyze app, and you've got a well-rounded product for just $50. Of course, the big selling point is the elimination of both batteries and wires, as the device is built to run entirely off the power provided by your light fixture. Along with the unique Wyze Bulb Cam, you'll find the Wyze Accessory Bulbs up for grabs. These bulbs can be paired exclusively with the Wyze Bulb Cam to create a motion-activated network of lights across your property. They're reasonably affordable at $16.98 each, though you can find bundles that knock the price down even further. While the Wyze Bulb Cam might look a bit awkward, there's no denying its versatility. Since you won't have to constantly check battery life or deal with a clunky wired installation process, the Bulb Cam should appeal to just about everyone seeking a streamlined solution for their home security needs. It's available now for $50. For more options, be sure to consider our roundup of the best home security cameras for alternatives from Arlo, Nest, and Ring.
Geeky Gadgets
01-06-2025
- General
- Geeky Gadgets
Audio Surveillance Exposed: The Hidden Threats Lurking in Your Home and Beyond
Imagine sitting in the privacy of your own home, discussing sensitive matters with a trusted friend. Unbeknownst to you, a tiny device hidden in the room or even the microphone of your smartphone is capturing every word. This isn't the plot of a spy thriller—it's the unsettling reality of modern acoustic surveillance. As technology advances, so do the methods used to exploit it, turning everyday sounds into a goldmine of information. From laser microphones that eavesdrop through windows to malware that hijacks your smart devices, the tools of acoustic spying are becoming more sophisticated and invasive, raising urgent questions about privacy in an increasingly connected world. In this exploration, Benn Jordan uncovers the seven most concerning levels of acoustic spying techniques and the risks they pose to individuals, businesses, and governments alike. You'll learn how seemingly innocuous devices like smart assistants and laptops can become gateways for surveillance, and why advancements in artificial intelligence and miniaturization are making these threats harder to detect. But it's not all doom and gloom—understanding these techniques is the first step toward protecting yourself. By the end, you may find yourself rethinking how secure your conversations really are. Understanding Audio Spying Everyday Devices: A Gateway for Spying Modern devices, including smartphones, laptops, and smart home systems, are particularly vulnerable to acoustic spying. Many of these devices are equipped with microphones that can be remotely accessed by malicious actors. Common vulnerabilities include: Malware: Cybercriminals can deploy malware to activate a device's microphone without the user's knowledge, allowing them to eavesdrop on conversations and gather sensitive information. Cybercriminals can deploy malware to activate a device's microphone without the user's knowledge, allowing them to eavesdrop on conversations and gather sensitive information. Smart Assistants: Devices like virtual assistants, designed for convenience, can be exploited if their security settings are weak or improperly configured. This can turn a helpful tool into a potential surveillance device. These risks highlight the importance of securing your devices and being cautious about granting microphone access to apps and services. By understanding these vulnerabilities, you can take steps to protect your privacy and reduce the likelihood of unauthorized surveillance. 7 Concerning Levels Of Acoustic Spying Techniques Watch this video on YouTube. Learn more about digital surveillance by reading previous articles we have written. Privacy and Security Risks The risks associated with acoustic surveillance extend far beyond the invasion of personal privacy. For businesses and organizations, the stakes are even higher. Sensitive discussions, trade secrets, and strategic plans can be intercepted through sound capture, leading to financial losses, competitive disadvantages, or even reputational damage. On a personal level, acoustic spying can result in identity theft, blackmail, or other forms of exploitation. The omnipresence of sound in daily life makes it a particularly challenging medium to secure. Conversations, ambient noise, and other audio signals are often unavoidable, creating opportunities for surveillance. This underscores the need for robust security measures to protect both individuals and organizations from the far-reaching consequences of acoustic spying. Technological Advancements in Surveillance The rapid pace of technological advancement has significantly enhanced the effectiveness of acoustic spying techniques, making them more precise and harder to detect. Key developments include: Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI-powered algorithms can process vast amounts of audio data, identifying patterns, keywords, or even specific voices with remarkable accuracy. This capability allows for targeted surveillance on an unprecedented scale. AI-powered algorithms can process vast amounts of audio data, identifying patterns, keywords, or even specific voices with remarkable accuracy. This capability allows for targeted surveillance on an unprecedented scale. Miniaturization: Advances in miniaturization have resulted in recording devices that are smaller and more discreet than ever before, allowing high-quality audio capture in virtually any setting. Advances in miniaturization have resulted in recording devices that are smaller and more discreet than ever before, allowing high-quality audio capture in virtually any setting. Enhanced Sound Capture: Improved hardware and software technologies can pick up audio even in noisy or challenging environments, further expanding the reach of acoustic surveillance. These advancements illustrate the growing sophistication of surveillance technologies and their potential to compromise privacy on a global scale. As these tools become more accessible, the risks associated with their misuse continue to rise. Ethical and Legal Challenges Acoustic surveillance presents complex ethical and legal challenges. While it can be justified in certain contexts, such as law enforcement or national security, the potential for misuse is significant. Surveillance conducted without proper oversight or consent often crosses ethical boundaries, raising questions about the balance between security and individual rights. Legal frameworks governing acoustic spying vary widely across jurisdictions, and the rapid evolution of technology often outpaces the development of relevant laws. This creates a gray area where ethical considerations must guide responsible use. Striking a balance between using surveillance for legitimate purposes and protecting privacy remains a critical challenge for policymakers and society as a whole. How to Protect Yourself from Acoustic Spying Safeguarding yourself and your organization from acoustic surveillance requires a proactive approach. Effective measures include: Secure Your Devices: Use strong, unique passwords and keep your software updated to address potential vulnerabilities. Use strong, unique passwords and keep your software updated to address potential vulnerabilities. Use Physical Barriers: Employ microphone blockers or covers to prevent unauthorized sound capture by your devices. Employ microphone blockers or covers to prevent unauthorized sound capture by your devices. Limit Microphone Access: Be selective about granting apps and services access to your device's microphone, and regularly review your privacy settings. Be selective about granting apps and services access to your device's microphone, and regularly review your privacy settings. Encrypt Communications: Use encryption tools for sensitive conversations to ensure they remain private and secure. By adopting these practices, you can reduce the risks associated with acoustic spying and better protect your privacy and security in an increasingly connected world. Media Credit: Benn Jordan Filed Under: Gadgets News, Guides Latest Geeky Gadgets Deals Disclosure: Some of our articles include affiliate links. If you buy something through one of these links, Geeky Gadgets may earn an affiliate commission. Learn about our Disclosure Policy.
