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Anybody remember the late-’90s movie Smart House in which a teenager wins an automated home in a contest before the computer (played by Katey Sagal) starts running amok? Well, we’re now living in that future, sans the overbearing computer matriarch (…so far.)
If you’re ready to embrace the future of smart homes but can’t quite pony up the dough to buy all-new appliances that cater to your every whim, there are lots of mid-tier and even cheap ways to dip your toe into the water of prequel-to-Terminator technological present.
Admittedly, a lot of the products to follow are add-on devices to hub centers like the Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant, so if you haven’t shelled out for one of these all-listening speakers yet, that will likely be a precursor to your smart home future. But once you’re wired, the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities of your lights, door locks and even sprinkler systems are just waiting to be unleashed.
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Ring Video Doorbell
Have you ever wished you could see who was at your door without having to come downstairs? Ring’s video doorbell lets you do exactly that, giving you the ability to stream video to your phone whenever you please. It also works with Amazon’s Alexa, allowing you to launch the video with your voice.
Wemo Smart Plugs
Schedule your lights to turn on when you get home and turn off when you go to bed or even set them to turn on and off to make it appear as if you’re home when you’re away. You can also turn lights or appliances on and off using your voice — these plugs are compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and Apple HomeKit.
Nest Thermostat
Not only can you control your home’s temperature from your phone with this thermostat, but it will also begin to learn your preferences and habits so it can automatically get the temperature right for you.
Kasa Cam Security Camera
For those who would feel safer with security cameras, this smart cam records a clip every time it senses motion or detects an unusual sound and is accessible through your phone. You can also watch or stop clips using voice controls.
Roomba Vacuum
Here’s one smart home feature anybody can get behind: self-vacuuming floors. The Roomba steps in to do exactly that, picking up dirt and pet hair, and now it’s voice-activated when paired with Alexa.
August Smart Lock
Whether you’re renting out your home on Airbnb or always losing your keys, smart locks let you open your door using keyless entry from your phone — without having to replace your current lock-and-key setup.
Fire TV
Want the features of a Smart TV but not ready to upgrade? There are plenty of devices that make it possible, from the Google Chromecast to Roku to Apple TV or Fire TV. If you’re already an Alexa user, the Fire TV is probably the smartest choice.
Bond Ceiling Fan & Fireplace Control
If you’ve already got a remote-control ceiling fan or fireplace, give it an upgrade and make it voice- and phone-activated. Even better, Bond will control up to six devices.
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