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ATV Launcher Pro's version 0.1.40 update introduces a new layout editor that lets Android TV users add, move, hide, and restyle home screen sections directly on the screen with live previews. The update also brings 12 row styles, seven tile layouts, screen breaks, icon packs, video wallpapers, new widgets, focus effects, and support for Android 16.
A ZDNET writer describes setting up Tailscale, a free service that links home computers—two physical machines and four virtual ones—into a secure private network called a tailnet. The setup allowed remote desktop access to all machines from abroad without configuring router settings or firewall rules, using tools already familiar to the user like Remote Desktop clients.
Amazon-owned Ring is introducing an encryption system called Throw Away the Key Encryption (TAKE), which uses rotating keys that are deleted within 24 hours while still allowing AI features like smart alerts and video search. The rollout begins in September and will become the default for all Ring users, subscribers or not.
Google Home users report that automations set to trigger from TV events, like powering on or off, are failing to activate. Reports so far point to TCL televisions, though it's unclear if other TV brands are affected. Google has acknowledged the issue publicly on Reddit but has not yet issued a fix.
Several Google Home owners report that asking their smart speakers to add items to Google Keep lists no longer works, even though the assistant correctly recognizes the voice command. In some cases the device merely states how many items are already on a list instead of adding anything new, and one user found it worked for a list named 'Shopping list' but not others. Google has not yet confirmed the cause, and the Notes & lists settings in the Google Home app appear to hint that voice-based list access may have been altered or removed.
Amazon is currently selling Arlo's second-generation Video Doorbell 2K for $49.99, down from its $79.99 list price, a 38% cut. The device records in 2K with a 180-degree view, offers wireless or wired installation, and includes motion alerts, two-way audio, night vision and a built-in siren without requiring a separate hub.
A bug disrupted voice-activated alarm setting on Google Home devices, including Nest speakers, displays, and third-party hardware like Lenovo smart displays, for several days in August. Users found that commands like asking for an alarm at a specific time were ignored unless they used odd workarounds, such as saying an exact hour or prefacing the request with an unrelated phrase. Google has now confirmed the issue is resolved across both Google Assistant and Gemini for Home.
CNET's latest survey finds that more than 63% of US adults experienced a year-over-year increase in their home internet bills, largely due to promotional rates that quietly expire after an introductory period. Providers often lure customers in with discounted pricing and bundled perks like free streaming subscriptions, only for bills to jump—sometimes doubling—once those terms end. The report outlines common pricing traps and offers strategies consumers can use to avoid unexpected bill hikes.
CNET published a guide recommending smart devices to upgrade home desks and offices, starting with a smart surge protector like Tapo's model that lets users label, remotely control, and track energy use of connected devices. The guide also highlights smart speakers, such as Google's newest model, for hands-free reminders, timers, and voice commands while working.
A letter published in Nature responds to an earlier essay noting a class scored 96% on a take-home midterm but only 48.6% on a closed-book final. The authors argue this disparity isn't primarily about students cheating or inadequate proctoring, but reveals that many university assessments test tasks AI tools can now complete faster and better than typical students.
An analysis by Lance Lambert's ResiClub identifies 64 major metropolitan housing markets where home prices are lower than they were a year earlier. The number of metros in decline has held roughly steady over the past year after an earlier wave of softening, even as the overall national housing market remains sluggish.
Blink's battery-powered outdoor security camera, which the company says can run for up to two years on a single charge, is currently being sold at a discounted price. The deal was highlighted by ZDNET as part of its ongoing coverage of notable tech discounts and product recommendations.