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Google confirmed via its Nest Community account that it has resolved a bug causing Google Home devices to play unrelated songs, albums, or playlists instead of the ones users requested. The issue had been reported by multiple users on Reddit's r/googlehome, with some saying it persisted for months across services like Spotify. Google has not detailed the cause of the bug or what specifically was changed to fix it.
Amazon's Ring is introducing a new encryption system called TAKE (Throw Away the Key Encryption) that protects video with rotating keys stored temporarily in a secure cloud enclave, only for activating smart home features before being deleted. Users retain access through enrolled devices and can share clips with trusted contacts, but Ring itself won't retain long-term access to the keys. The feature begins rolling out in September, alongside Ring's existing option for full end-to-end encryption.
Ring is switching its default video encryption to a new scheme called TAKE (Throw Away the Key Encryption), which temporarily decrypts footage in the cloud to power AI features like Smart Alerts before deleting the keys within 24 hours. The standard, built on the IETF's Messaging Layer Security protocol, will roll out globally starting in September, though users can still opt for full end-to-end encryption instead.
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.
Ziff Davis' CNET Group is running a five-site trivia contest asking readers to predict details of Apple's upcoming fall event, including whether Tim Cook and John Ternus will appear together, whether smart glasses will be unveiled, and the price of a rumored foldable iPhone. The third round runs from Aug. 18 to Sept. 1, with entries open on each participating site, though each entrant can win only one Apple Watch in the September drawing.
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.
Dreame, the Chinese vacuum maker turned aspiring tech conglomerate, has reportedly dissolved its automotive division 'Project Starry Sky,' which once had over 1,000 employees and produced a rocket-engine concept car shown in San Francisco. Only a small legal and HR team remains to wind down the unit, after Chinese regulators tightened scrutiny of the $3.4 trillion private fund industry and singled out Dreame's spending.
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 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.
Smart ring maker Oura is said to be planning a U.S. IPO as soon as next month, aiming to raise up to $3 billion at a valuation exceeding $16 billion, according to Bloomberg. That figure would nearly double the $10.9 billion valuation the company received in its September Series E round, with existing investors expected to sell a significant portion of shares in the offering.
A free iPhone app called Zuckoff scans Bluetooth signals to alert users when Ray-Ban Meta glasses, Snap Spectacles, or similar wearable cameras are nearby, estimating their distance. It's part of a growing set of privacy tools, including Antizuck and Nearby Glasses, built in response to concerns that smart glasses can record video without visible warning.