Smart refrigerators have become widespread, with even budget models offering Wi-Fi connectivity and high-end versions like Samsung's Bespoke Fridge with AI featuring cameras, touchscreens, and inventory tracking. These fridges let owners monitor temperature zones, receive maintenance alerts, and use the appliance as a digital bulletin board. However, the report notes drawbacks including data collection concerns and the risk of obsolescence as software support ends.
engadget.com
· 2026-11-07
Google confirmed via its official Nest Community account that a daylight saving time bug affecting timers and alarms on smart home devices has been fixed. The issue surfaced after the November 1 clock change, causing devices in Canadian regions with permanent daylight saving time to display incorrect times, including Lenovo Smart Clock and Clock Essential units running an hour behind despite Google Assistant showing the correct time.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-11-06
Sonos announced that its new voice assistant, called Sonos 27voice, will open for early access testing on November 6 as part of this week's software update. Users must request access through the Sonos app and be approved to try it ahead of a planned full release in 2027.
engadget.com
· 2026-11-03
Following the November 1 end of daylight saving time in the US, many Google Nest Hub and Nest Learning Thermostat owners report their devices' clocks shifted back an hour even in regions that don't observe the time change, according to user complaints gathered by Android Authority. The glitch has thrown off alarms, automations, and thermostat schedules, with reports surfacing from across Canada including British Columbia, Alberta, and Manitoba.
androidauthority.com
· 2026-11-03
A troubleshooting guide explains why smart home devices frequently drop off Wi-Fi networks, pointing to router connection limits, band compatibility issues, and signal range as common culprits. It recommends upgrading from Wi-Fi 5 to Wi-Fi 6 or 7 routers, separating 2.4GHz and 5GHz SSIDs for older accessories, and using multiple Apple home hubs to reduce HomeKit's 'No Response' errors.
engadget.com
· 2026-11-02
Apple has delayed its smart home robot, reportedly codenamed J595, until at least 2027 or possibly 2028, according to The Information. The report says the device's hardware has been ready for about two years, but software delays have held up its release, with the software team reportedly scaling back planned features to focus on FaceTime and basic home automation like controlling lights. The device is expected to carry a roughly $1,000 price tag and feature a 9-inch display mounted on a swiveling robotic arm.
theverge.com
· 2026-11-02
A consumer technology review identifies five categories of smart home devices—such as smart thermostats and plugs—that can offset their purchase cost through energy savings. It also flags three popular smart home products, including some novelty gadgets, as offering little financial return despite marketing hype.
fastcompany.com
· 2026-11-02
A Reddit user named pdfu discovered strings in HomeView 27.2 software suggesting Apple is developing security camera functionality for its smart home hub, including motion detection, live streaming, and recording. A setup page reportedly references using HomeView as a security camera with HomeKit Secure Video. Apple has not confirmed these features publicly.
theverge.com
· 2026-11-01
Apple's $149 HomePod Mini 2, reviewed hands-on, uses a faster S10 chip and Wi-Fi 6E support that let Siri respond to commands in under three seconds, a major improvement over the original's delays. The new Siri AI features Apple promised are not yet available and will arrive in a later software update, while the speaker's sound system remains unchanged from 2020's original.
theverge.com
· 2026-11-01
Apple's smart-home screen interface, HomeView, departs from the traditional App Store-centric approach that defined the iPhone era. Instead of requiring users to download individual apps, the system is built around Siri as the primary way to interact with connected devices. The design reflects Apple's deep integration with its existing ecosystem while signaling a different approach for home-based AI interfaces compared to its rivals.
fastcompany.com
· 2026-11-01
A new report looks at how home security cameras affect residents' sense of safety, noting that the devices can deter crime and offer reassurance. At the same time, the footage they capture sometimes depicts strange or frightening events that leave users unsettled rather than comforted.
wsj.com
· 2026-10-31
Apple pushed out HomeView 27.2 (build 24V514), the operating system for its upcoming smart home hub, which is currently available for preorder. The update contains 20 default wallpapers in both light and dark variants, plus an early look at the device's face customization interface.
9to5mac.com
· 2026-10-31
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