Does Nanoleaf Need a Bridge or Hub?

Various Nanoleaf shapes on bedroom feature wall with HomePod Mini

The modern smart home is continually getting upgraded with smarter, more advanced technology. Manufacturers are always developing technology that brings forth newer, more innovative, and even more decorative ways to enhance our smart home ecosystem. Nanoleaf is no exception. Since the early 2010’s, Nanoleaf has earned their place as being one of the most innovative when it … Read more

Does Amazon Echo Extend Wi-Fi? Is It A Wi-Fi Extender?

A diagram showing the various parts to a home network which doesn't reply on PoE - i.e. an internet supply cable brings internet to the router, which then mainly 'speaks' to the smart components over WiFi. Various power supplies are then required.

Within the last couple of years in particular, working and schooling at home having become more popular – if not essential. To that end, the need for a good, strong Wi-Fi connection is more in demand than ever before.  Besides laptops, desktops, and tablets, many of us also operate a variety of smart home devices. … Read more

Can Ring Pathlights Stay On? How Do You Charge Them?

Rings smart lighting pathlight solar installed down a path

Since their introduction in 2018, Ring’s smart lighting has become a popular addition in the modern smart home, especially with those who already use Ring products. Their line of smart lighting includes Floodlights, Steplights, Spotlights, Motion Sensors, and even pedestal Pathlights. Ring’s Pathlights not only look inviting as they light the path up to your … Read more

Do I Need a Ring Bridge If I Have a Ring Alarm?

The Ring Alarm base station mounted on a wall above a metal shelf.

Ring’s ever-growing line of smart home tech has become one of the most popular brands of smart home devices in the modern home. Starting out with their line of security cameras for the inside and outside of your home, they then introduced the 1st generation of the Ring Alarm System in 2018. This was soon followed … Read more

Does Amazon Alexa and the Echo work without the Internet?

WiFi faulty error sign

In homes across the country, many smart homeowners have chosen to use an Amazon Echo, in conjunction with the Alexa app, as their smart home hub. Their popularity, wide variety of options, and ease of use have drawn many people to the smart home hub of one of the largest manufacturers. Alexa and the Echo … Read more

Does Amazon’s Smart Plug Work With Google/Nest, HomeKit and More?

Amazon Smart Plug marketing image

Since its introduction, the Amazon Smart plug has become increasingly popular with smart home users around the world. These simple, easy-to-operate smart plugs have helped many turn their normal or ‘dumb’ appliances into smart appliances, making it possible to integrate these appliances into their already functional smart homes. Being manufactured by Amazon, this smart plug … Read more

Does Philips Hue Work With Ring?

Ring Spotlight Cam installed outdoors

When it comes to smart home devices, many people are familiar with two of the most popular manufacturers out there – Philips Hue and Ring. Many smart home users have either one or the other – or in some cases, both – brands of smart home devices at work in their homes. Being a primary … Read more

Can I Use Amazon Smart Plug Without Alexa or an Echo?

Amazon Smart Plug marketing image

With the introduction of the smart plug, came a new convenience that has even further enhanced the functionality of today’s smart home. Smart plugs have been a game-changer for those who want to integrate their ‘dumb’, or average fixtures (i.e. lamps and air conditioners), into their smart homes. One of the best selling smart plug’s … Read more

Does SwitchBot Need A Hub?

SwitchBot Mini on a table with an Amazon Echo Dot

In the ever-growing sector of smart home products arises yet another contender – the SwitchBot.  Released in 2016 on Kickstarter, then in 2017 to the general retail market, these simple, affordable, yet intuitive smart devices are practically in a class of their own.  They complete a variety of functions – from opening and closing curtains, … Read more

Using Your Philips Hue Dimmer Switch With Alexa – Is It Possible?

Philips Hue dimmer switch showing a red (error) light

The goal of most smart home owners is to get their homes to operate seamlessly and achieve interoperability with all of their smart devices. With the introduction of smart home hubs such as Amazon’s Echo, Samsung SmartThings, and Apple HomeKit, just to name a few, this goal of interoperability seemed to become a reality. However, … Read more