On the other hand, brands like The Home Assistant voice assistant are entirely local and claim that no information is sent to the cloud to ensure user privacy.Launched in 2023, this device ...

I review smart home devices in my line of work, especially DIY home security hardware. I've written about smart tech for ...

What sets Home Assistant apart from other smart home platforms is that it was engineered to manage devices locally. That means your smart home can function even when there's no internet connection.

Our tech expert puts Yale’s Smart Video Doorbell to the test in his home. Read Alistair's verdict of the top-rated Ring alternative.

Smart security cameras often use cloud-based storage for recorded videos. However, while this is undoubtedly convenient, it does rely on a robust internet connection for it to work effectively.

Subscription: optional (free cloud storage) Power: hardwired Compatibility: Amazon Alexa, Google Home Who this is for. People who want a permanently installed way to screen visitors at the door ...

Artificial intelligence (AI) usually requires a lot of computing power and energy, which can be a problem for small devices ...

Updated October 8, 2024: We’ve added a link to our Samsung SmartThings Station review, which is our new top pick in DIY smart home systems.. Why you should trust us. TechHive’s editors and ...

The Aqara G5 Pro doesn't come cheap, but no other security camera we've tested offers such comprehensive smart home connectivity. In addition to providing sharp 2K video and color night vision ...

In my smart home setup, I haven’t explicitly blocked all devices from connecting to their manufacturer’s servers. About half of them still remain accessible via their official apps, just in case.

In addition to internet/cloud smart home products, Homey Pro Mini has radios for controlling Zigbee, Thread, and Matter devices. Out of the box, it will be able to control almost all your smart ...

In this guide, I’ve broken down the top smart home platforms of 2025, who they’re best for, and how they fit into the ever-evolving smart home world. You may like 5 reasons why you should ...