The smart homes project is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to redefining the concept of home. The launch event, held against the backdrop of the exquisite Ham Palm Villas, showcased the seamless integration of advanced technology, sustainability, and aesthetic sophistication.

Key Highlights of the Smart Homes project:

Intelligent Home Automation: Residents will experience the convenience of smart home systems, allowing for the effortless control of lighting, climate, security, and entertainment through full voice control and intuitive mobile application interfaces.

Energy-Efficient Living: The project incorporates state-of-the-art energy solutions, including solar panels and energy-efficient self-optimizing smart features, that optimize electronics power consumption, to promote sustainability and reduce the environmental footprint of each home.

Security Reinvented: Smart Homes prioritize resident safety with advanced security features such as smart surveillance systems, biometric access controls, 24/7 monitoring, and self-defending features that leverage facial recognition systems to keep intruders and strangers out of our sacred revered homes.

Adaptive Artificial Intelligence: Leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence, homes in the project learn and adapt to residents’ preferences, providing a personalized and comfortable living environment.

Mr. Larry Luyombya, the visionary CEO of Larry Group of Companies, expressed his excitement about the project, stating, “We believe that progress should be inclusive, and technology should be a tool for empowerment. Our Smart Homes are therefore designed to be accessible to all, making the benefits of modern living available to a wide spectrum of society.”

The launch event witnessed the presence of Senior government officials, including the Hon. Minister of ICT, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi who in his remarks emphasized the need for Ugandans to integrate technology into all aspects of their daily lives.

“In today’s landscape, achieving efficiency and fostering accelerated transformation dictates the seamless integration of technology across various sectors. Whether it’s healthcare, agriculture, business, and commerce, or housing and infrastructure, technology must take center stage,” Baryomunsi said.

“Embracing technology is crucial for swift progress, aligning with the global trend towards digitalization. Hence, when we focus on incorporating technology into housing and real estate, we are steering in the right direction. As the future unfolds in the digital realm, it becomes imperative to ensure that technology remains pivotal in all our endeavors, lest we fall behind the rest of the world,” he added.

Prominent industry leaders, and esteemed guests at the event all marveled at the synergy of the technology and elegance embodied in LGC Smart Homes. The company extends its gratitude to all stakeholders, including the local community, for their support in bringing this transformative project to life.

As LGC introduces the Smart Homes Project at Ham Palm Villas, it aims to set a new standard for luxury living, creating a community that exemplifies the perfect harmony of technology, sustainability, and architectural excellence.

The post LGC Launch Smart Homes Project at Ham Palm Villas to Elevate Living in Uganda appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

We provide all of the essential information you need to understand about smart homes so that you can make an informed decision when considering investing in one.

Compare electricity rates

As the world becomes more technology-driven, it’s only natural that we want our homes to be smarter too. But with all the gadgets we’re using, we want to make sure we’re not breaking the bank on our electricity bills. In this case, comparing electricity rates at EnergyBot.com might be a great move to save some bucks. With just a few clicks, we can compare electricity rates for your smart home and find the best plan to fit your needs and budget. And best of all? We will have that much-needed peace of mind knowing that our smart home is energy-efficient and wallet-friendly.

Understand the difference between home automation and a “smart home”

Have you ever wondered what the difference is between a home that is automated and one that is considered “smart”? While the two terms may seem interchangeable, there are distinct differences.

Home automation typically refers to the ability to control various systems in your home through a central hub or remote control, such as turning on lights or adjusting the thermostat. A smart home, on the other hand, takes things a step further by utilizing technology to learn your habits, preferences, and routines. This allows the home to anticipate your needs and adjust accordingly, creating a more personalized and seamless living experience. Although home automation is certainly convenient, a smart home offers a level of intelligence and efficiency that truly sets it apart.

Learn the different components of a smart home system

A smart home system allows you to control various aspects of your home through a single device, whether it’s your smartphone or your smart speaker. The components of a smart home system are varied and range from security systems to lighting controls to entertainment systems. For instance, you can use smart lighting to schedule lights to turn on and off throughout the day or set up a home security system that includes motion sensors and cameras. Smart thermostats allow you to check in on your home’s temperature remotely and adjust it as needed, while entertainment systems help you enjoy your favorite music or podcasts with ease.

Knowing the different components of a smart home system can help you create a more efficient and comfortable living space for you and your family.

Explore the advantages and disadvantages of smart homes

Before investing in a smart home, it’s important to weigh both the advantages and disadvantages of this technology. On the plus side, having a connected home can:

• Save energy and money due to efficient devices.
• Enhance security with automated locks, cameras, and motion sensors.
• Make everyday tasks simpler (controlling the thermostat or lights with voice commands from your smartphone).
• Provide a more personalized living experience as devices learn your preferences.

However, there are some potential drawbacks you should also consider. Smart homes often require a significant upfront investment, as well as ongoing maintenance. Additionally, if the system is hacked or your data is compromised, you may be vulnerable to cybercrime and other threats.

Be aware of the security concerns

Smart homes use a network of interconnected devices to automate and remotely control various aspects of your home — everything from lighting and temperature to security systems and appliances. Unfortunately, with this added convenience also comes the risk of cyber-attacks and data breaches. Intruders can potentially gain access to your personal and even financial information through vulnerabilities in your smart home system. For this reason, you want to educate yourself on best practices for securing your smart home, such as regularly updating passwords and keeping your software up to date. By being proactive about protecting your smart home, you can enjoy all the benefits of this innovative technology without putting yourself at risk.

Embracing a smart home is undoubtedly a significant step towards convenience, efficiency, and personalization. While the initial investment and potential security concerns may seem daunting, understanding the intricacies of this technology can mitigate risks and enhance benefits. Be it comparing electricity rates, understanding the difference between home automation and smart homes, or being aware of the different components and the associated pros and cons, the right knowledge is your best tool.

The objective is to create a space that makes your life easier and resonates with your lifestyle and preferences. As you prepare to stride into the future, remember to secure your smart home effectively, ensuring a seamless, safe, and smart living experience.

ALSO READ: THE RISE OF SMART HOMES: EXPLORING POTENTIAL BENEFITS AND DRAWBACKS

The post Useful Information You Should Know About Smart Homes appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Incorporating IoT technology, smart homes are enhanced dwellings featuring remote control capabilities through network connections for monitoring and controlling different devices. The focus is on creating an integrated ecosystem with various smart devices like security cameras, lighting systems, thermostats plus home appliances, and voice assistants to improve overall living experiences — that is smart homes for you.

The benefits that come with a smart home are numerous and impactful. These innovative living spaces allow homeowners to control everything from the temperature to their appliances with simple voice commands or remote access. This kind of convenience is unparalleled for most individuals seeking optimal efficiency. Additionally, these homes help lower energy consumption by implementing schedules that optimize usage patterns for electrical appliances. Finally, they offer heightened levels of security thanks to advanced features such as motion-sensitive lighting or surveillance cameras.

1. Convenience and Efficiency: One of the primary advantages of smart homes is the enhanced convenience they offer. Innovations in home technology have led to the creation of smart homes which offer several benefits including enhanced convenience for homeowners through its remote control capabilities and automation features.

Homeowners can effortlessly control lighting, adjust the thermostat and even schedule various appliances through smartphone apps or voice commands with ease — this convenience saves time while increasing productivity levels significantly while promoting an improved lifestyle overall. Another advantage is its ability to promote environmental sustainability by utilizing intelligent sensors alongside advanced algorithms that optimize energy consumption in line with user preferences — this all thanks to the usage pattern learned by smart thermostats leading to reduced wastage which translates into savings from lower utility bills.

2. Enhanced Security: Smart home security systems are one such option that offers advanced features for monitoring and protecting residential spaces. From video doorbells to motion sensors and surveillance cameras these systems allow you to keep an eye on your property from anywhere at any time via remote access — providing peace of mind.

Should a security breach occur smart home security systems offer real-time alerts sent directly to your smartphone. This means you can take immediate action if necessary and potentially prevent any damage or loss to your property and deter potential intruders. Furthermore, the integration of these systems with other smart devices in your home like lighting or audio — creates an illusion that someone is present [if you saw Home Alone, yes something like that] even when the house is unoccupied. This added layer of protection acts as a deterrent against would-be intruders while enhancing overall home security.

ALSO READ: 3 REASONS TO INVEST IN A HOME SECURITY SYSTEM

3. Improved Accessibility: Smart homes offer tremendous opportunities for people dealing with mobility limitations or disabilities. The introduction of these cutting-edge technologies provides newfound independence through greater control over one’s living space and environment in general.

Among the many useful applications are voice-activated assistants that assist individuals with limited movement by performing common tasks like adjusting blinds, changing lighting settings, and operating household appliances effortlessly.

While smart homes offer numerous benefits, they also come with their fair share of drawbacks and challenges —highlighting the importance of addressing privacy, security, compatibility, and internet connectivity issues to ensure the safe and effective integration of smart home technologies.

• Privacy and Data Security Concerns: As households become smarter with intelligent appliances gathering an enormous amount of data, protecting user privacy and data security is becoming more critical than ever before.

The potential for cyberattacks through exploiting defects and vulnerabilities in the Internet of Things (IoT) network can occur leading to adverse effects such as gaining unauthorized access to confidential customer information. This action can extend further than just accessing personal details; malicious entities can take over management systems for various electronic appliances remotely too. Additionally, service providers run these platforms; leakage or unwanted disclosure of user information has substantial repercussions on customer trust levels too.

• Complexity and Compatibility Issues: Using smart home systems can sometimes present challenges due to their intricate nature. The task of integrating different devices from varying manufacturers and ensuring they are compatible is often daunting and cumbersome for some users.

Furthermore setting up these devices or troubleshooting issues such as connectivity problems may not always come easy. Moreover, as technology further advances, older smart home devices may become obsolete or incompatible with newer standards, requiring additional investment for upgrades.

3. Reliance on Connectivity: Smart homes depend so much on stable internet connectivity. Any disruptions, interruptions, or outages can create havoc upon the functionality of interconnected devices resulting in remote control limitations with critical features becoming unavailable entirely.

Power outages can introduce operational issues for those without backup batteries. The dependence upon connectivity inevitably results in potential points for failure, ultimately leading to frustration when those systems fail during crucial moments.

Smart homes make it possible to control your entire home from one central device by bringing together different technologies that integrate seamlessly with one another for greater efficiency and convenience. However, while this emerging trend may seem like a dream come true for many homeowners looking for an easier way of living; it’s important not to overlook the potential risks involved as well. From privacy concerns around data collection to technical glitches or security breaches — there are still drawbacks or challenges that need to be addressed before fully adopting smart home technologies as part of everyday life.

ALSO READ: CHATGPT: THE AI ASSISTANT FOR YOUR SMART HOME

The post The Rise of Smart Homes: Exploring Potential Benefits and Drawbacks appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

A smart home is a house that uses internet-connected gadgets to control and automate diverse structures and appliances, together with lights, temperature, protection, and amusement. These gadgets are managed through a central hub, which may be a smartphone or pc. Smart houses provide homeowners with more control and flexibility, as well as the ability to save power and decrease prices.

How Does ChatGPT Work with Smart Homes?

ChatGPT is an artificial intelligence (AI) language model that has been trained on a vast amount of data, allowing it to understand and respond to natural language queries. ChatGPT can understand spoken commands and respond with automated actions when integrated with a smart home.

For example, a homeowner might say “Hey ChatGPT, turn off the lights in the living room.” ChatGPT would then communicate with the smart home hub and turn off the lights in the specified room. This allows homeowners to control their smart home devices without the need for physical remote or manual control.

In addition to voice commands, ChatGPT can also respond to text-based queries. This means that homeowners can control their smart home devices from anywhere in the world, as long as they have an internet connection. For example, a homeowner might send a text message to ChatGPT saying “Turn on the air conditioning,” and ChatGPT would communicate with the smart home hub to activate the system.

What are the Benefits of Using ChatGPT in a Smart Home?

1. Convenience: Homeowners can control their smart home devices without the need for physical remote or manual control, making it easier to manage their home environment.
2. Efficiency: ChatGPT can automate various systems and appliances, such as lighting and temperature control, which can save energy and reduce costs. For example, ChatGPT can turn off lights and appliances when they’re not in use, or adjust the temperature settings based on the time of day and occupancy of the room.
3. Security: ChatGPT can be programmed to monitor security systems and alert homeowners if there is any suspicious activity. This can provide homeowners with greater peace of mind and enhance the overall security of their homes.
4. Finally, ChatGPT can provide homeowners with personalized recommendations and suggestions. For example, if a homeowner frequently sets the temperature to a certain level at a certain time of day, ChatGPT can learn this pattern and automate the process. This can save time and make it easier for homeowners to manage their home environment.

What are the Challenges of Using Chat GPT in a Smart Home?

There also are a few demanding situations related to the use of ChatGPT in a smart home. One of the primary challenges is compatibility. ChatGPT might not be well-matched with all smart home devices and structures, which could restrict its functionality.

In the end, there may be a potential for privacy concerns. ChatGPT can also accumulate statistics on homeowner behavior and preferences, which may be used for centered advertising or different purposes. Owners should be privy to the data collection practices in their smart home gadgets and take steps to guard their privacy.

Conclusion:
As smart homes come to be more every day, ChatGPT is likely to play an increasingly more essential position in coping with home environments. With its ability to apprehend and respond to natural language queries, ChatGPT can provide house owners with a continuing and handy manner to control their smart home devices. Whether or not you are a property owner looking to integrate your own home with the smart generation or a developer trying to construct the following technology of smart home devices, ChatGPT is an interesting and promising technology that is really worth exploring.

ALSO READ: THE RISE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE AND ITS POTENTIAL IMPLICATIONS

The post ChatGPT: The AI Assistant For Your Smart Home appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

So, we partnered up with our friends from EsportsHeadlines.com and created our list of gadgets that could improve your home office, regardless if you’re an entrepreneur, freelancer, or remote worker.

Smart Cup or Mug

Smart cups and mugs can keep your drink warm for hours. It’s perfect for slow drinkers who like premium or single-cup pour-over coffee. You’ll save on expenses for coffee or tea, ingredients, and hot water heating. Not to mention the time and effort it takes to make a new cup.

These modern smart cups come with various features, including:

• Stainless steel and ceramic exteriors.
• Self-stirring details.
• Temperature control.
• Auto sleep function for battery saving.
• Smartphone app for various controls.
• Charging or conductive coasters.

The best smart mug models are waterproof, so you can hand wash them in the sink like any ordinary mug. One such mug is the Ember – the world’s first temperature control mug. Aside from its beautiful designs, the Ember mug keeps your drinks at the right temperature. Conveniently set it through your smartphone and choose from 120 to 145 ℉. You can also keep it on its coaster throughout the day to never run out of battery.

Ergonomic Upgrades

Ergonomic upgrades are essential for anyone looking to enhance their home office setup for both comfort and productivity. These include items like adjustable chairs, sit-stand desks, and ergonomic keyboards designed to support the body’s natural posture. Such enhancements are crucial in preventing the strain and discomfort that often accompanies long hours of sitting in a poorly designed workspace. People often like to view keyboard trays that elevate their keyboards at an angle, providing a more natural typing position and reducing the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome. By promoting a more comfortable working environment, ergonomic gadgets can significantly reduce the risk of developing repetitive stress injuries and other musculoskeletal disorders. This is not only essential for your physical health but also for sustaining productivity levels and maintaining focus throughout the workday.

Furthermore, investing in ergonomic upgrades reflects a commitment to overall well-being and can lead to enhanced work performance. An ergonomic chair that adjusts to your body’s needs or a desk that allows you to alternate between sitting and standing can drastically improve your energy levels and concentration. This adaptability enables workers to tailor their environment to their personal preferences, ultimately fostering a more dynamic and flexible work setting. Additionally, the psychological benefits of working in a comfortable and health-conscious space should not be underestimated. Feeling cared for by your environment can boost morale, making the home office a place where creativity and productivity flourish.

Monitor Lightbar

Your computer monitor can cause eye strain when you don’t work in the correct settings. Lighting up dim rooms with RGB lighting can be trendy, but staring at a bright light source deteriorates your vision.

What is a monitor lightbar for? The gadgets’ purpose is simple: to provide light from above and in front of you, lighting up the surface of your desk. Then why not just buy a lamp? Lamps have a wide light range because of the way they’re designed. Thus, a lamp can reflect on your screen, creating glare and shadows. It also takes up space in your work area.

A lightbar has a rod-like shape to better control where its light falls. It’s portable enough to sit on top of your monitor, too.

On top of reducing eye strain, a lightbar like the Xiaomi Mi Computer Monitor Lightbar can provide enough illumination for video calls. You only need to point the lightbar towards you to get good lighting and adjust the brightness, so it doesn’t affect your vision.

Acoustical Foam

Contrary to popular belief, acoustical foams are not sound blockers. They absorb sounds to decrease the room’s echo and improve sound quality in the room. Why is it important to reduce echo?

Echo makes your natural voice’s quality drop when it goes through a call. Voice is critical in speech since it helps us engage and keep our audience’s interest. You need to have a strong voice and efficiently relay it to your listeners even when you’re not physically with them. It’s so you can deliver your ideas clearly and communicate effectively.

Here are other advantages of having acoustical foams in your workspace:

• They reduce outside noise for undisturbed calls and meetings. Plus, a tranquil workplace helps you concentrate and make you more productive.
• They offer privacy so you can talk about your confidential work details freely.
• Depending on the brand of the foam, they are safe, lightweight, and fire-resistant. Others also have thermal insulation and heat endurance.
• They are easy to install. If you can hang a picture frame, you can set up acoustical foams.

Rechargeable Hand Warmer

Autumn and winter are just around the seasonal corner. One challenge of having a home office is keeping it warm but not so cozy that your blood pressure drops and makes you feel tired and sleepy.

Typing also gets more difficult during the colder seasons since the temperature numbs the nerves in our fingers. Get rechargeable hand warmers to deal with sleep-inducing periods and clumsy fingers. These nifty little gadgets are just what they sound like, and they can even keep your hands warm in between matches while gaming.

• Hand or wrist pain.
• Raynaud’s arthritis.
• Joint pain.
• Skin cracks.

Other advantages of a rechargeable hand warmer are:

• It’s environment-friendly.
• Compared to disposable hand warmers, rechargeable ones can be reused.
• It’s non-toxic versus the air-activated hand warmers. Choose a rechargeable hand warmer if you have a pet to avoid accidental ingestion.

Using a hand warmer is a breeze. Just hold or wrap your hands around it to heat your hands and fingers. These are not only for indoor warming. You can also bring these gadgets and keep them in your pocket to warm your outside trips.

One of our most recommended hand warmers is the OCOOPA 7800. This rechargeable gadget also works as a 7800mAh power bank. It’s compact and can easily fit in your bag or pocket with three temperature modes from 95 to 131℉.

Nintendo Game & Watch Console

Let’s be honest – there are days when your sheer determination isn’t enough to sit through long and tedious online meetings. It’s easy to doze off and risk missing important discussions. To stay alert, consider buying a Nintendo Game & Watch console to shift your attention discreetly.

Why get an old-school Game & Watch console? Since the games on this Nintendo micro console are simple, you won’t have to spend all your brain power focusing. Playing a battle in Zelda or jumping on a few goombas in Mario won’t distract you (too much) from the meeting. Just don’t forget to keep a poker face when you’re at it.

Plus, the item is small enough to place right under your computer monitor. It also has adequate controls and long battery life. Relive your childhood memories with this console’s retro look and functions and get a piece of history with Nintendo’s first handheld gaming system.

Apple’s Magnetic Wireless Charger

Because of the power and functionality of most Apple devices, many people use their iPhones for work and play. Whether you use yours as a secondary screen or a primary working device, you must keep it charged to finish your tasks.

You can’t put your meetings on hold while you wait for your phone to charge. A magnetic wireless charger won’t only keep your main and audio jack almost new, but most importantly, it will eliminate charging as a distraction.

Never deal with a low bat iPhone again, especially if you use it for video conferences that take up more than an hour. When you need to charge your iPhone, you can mount it onto a tripod or gooseneck with a magnetic charger. It’ll give you an excellent angle for the video call and make it more convenient to adjust lighting and other movements.

The charger and the tripod-gooseneck combination also work well for emergencies. If your laptop dies, you can switch the video call to your iPhone camera without worrying about running out of battery.

Modular Portable Power Station

Most company offices have backup generators to prevent data and productivity loss during sudden power outages. However, the average home office lacks this safety backup feature. When an unpredicted brownout, blackout, or electrical issue arises, you won’t be able to do your office projects. You might even get behind schedule.

To solve these unexpected problems, purchase a modular portable power station, such as our top recommendation, the Bluetti EB150. This small but mighty product has a 1000 W power capacity.

On average, a desktop computer with loudspeakers and a printer uses 200 W per hour. A laptop uses 50 to 100 W per hour, depending on the model. So you can use your desktop computer for 4 to 5 hours or a laptop for 10 to 20 hours more with this gadget. Paired with your 5G network for high data speeds, you’re ready to go through your daily remote office duties.

Other features of this modular power station include solar charging, wall charging, and a solar power generator. The product weighs 35 lbs, so it’s easy to carry around. It’s also one of the market’s more affordable modular power stations.

Fidget Cube

Do you have to stream live reports to bosses, colleagues, and clients as part of your work? Even if it’s an inescapable part of your job description, not all of us want to be the center of attention.

A great way to deal with jitters is to play with fidget cubes. These are great for nervous ticks or anxiety from giving presentations. Fiddle with a fidget cube when you’re explaining something — it’s better than touching your neck, playing with your hair, or doing other actions that show anxiousness or lack of confidence.

Fidget cubes help you focus by redirecting your energy to doing something else. It also promotes creativity and fresh thinking. Additionally, these gadgets assist in releasing stress, so you don’t feel burdened by only interacting with your computer all day. Fidget cubes stimulate your senses, calm your nerves, and distract you from an overwhelming situation.

You can purchase many fidget cubes, all with varying designs and sizes. Such as fidget blocks that connect and twist, clickable fidget switches,  and decompression fidget toys.

Conclusion
These are the eight gadgets to include in your home office for optimal productivity and comfort. Use them to improve your focus, enhance creativity, and increase work quality at home.

ALSO READ: DESK ACCESSORIES DESIGNED TO ELEVATE YOUR WORK-FROM-HOME PRODUCTIVITY

The post 8 Gadgets to Improve Your Home Office appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

One of the main things you need to do when trying to figure out where security vulnerabilities exist is inspecting your home. Developing a comprehensive checklist can help keep you on task during your home inspection.

There are a number of little-known home security tips that you need to put into use if you want to keep burglars at bay. Here are some security tips and guidelines you probably haven’t thought of and how to use them to make your home an impenetrable fortress.

1. Change Your Security System Code

Homeowners in the United States spend millions of dollars on security equipment every year. If you currently have a security system in place, you need to realize that alterations need to be made to keep this system secure. When a new security system is installed, default codes are used to get it up and running. A system code is a numeric sequence that allows the person using it to access various settings on the panel.

Some homeowners make the mistake of keeping these default codes in place. If a burglar has access to a list of default codes, they will be able to turn off your security system and gain access to your home. Rather than making it easy for a burglar to breach your security system, you need to choose a new and unique system code.

Doing some research on Honeywell system codes is crucial when trying to figure out the right new code for your system. Working with security professionals is vital when trying to get this code changed in a quick and efficient way. Changing your security code once or twice a year is also a great idea when trying to avoid problems.

2. New Locks Are a Great Investment

Around 5 million pre-existing homes are sold in the United States every year. If you have recently purchased a pre-existing home, now is the time to bulk up the security it has. One of the main mistakes new homeowners make is leaving the locks left by the previous owners in place. There is no way of knowing how many people have a key to these locks. Rather than leaving these locks in place, you need to remove this common vulnerability and invest in new locks.

If you want to modernize your lock solutions, then investing in an access control system is a great idea. These systems allow you to open a door lock with a specially designed plastic card. These cards can be added and removed from your system with the press of a button. With the help of a knowledgeable locksmith, you can get your existing locks replaced the right way.

3. Install New Exterior Lights

An overwhelming number of home burglaries take place at night. Most criminals prefer to move in the dark because it allows them to break into homes undetected. If the outside of your home is dark, now is the time to add some illumination.

With the addition of exterior lights, you can make it harder for criminals to infiltrate your home. Exterior lights also allow you to highlight the natural beauty your home has.

Now that you know more about how to secure your home, it is time to get to work. By using the suggestions in this article, you can make your home an impenetrable fortress.

ALSO READ: TYPES OF SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY TO BUY IN 2022

The post 3 Home Security Tips and Guidelines You Never Thought of appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

So, there’s really no reason for you not to at least consider it. However, the world of smart technology can be vast, and this often puts people off. Luckily, you don’t need to feel intimidated. We’ll be walking you through five types of smart home technology that we think you should buy in 2022.

Safety and security systems
For those who live alone, safety and security are two of their biggest concerns. After all, you may feel vulnerable when you live on your own – and even if you don’t.

No matter how healthy you are or how safe your neighborhood is, it can never hurt to go the extra mile and make sure to improve on both safety and security in your home. There are various types of smart security that you can have installed in your home.

If you are worried about getting injured or falling when you are home alone, looking into life alert systems might be a good idea.

A smart TV
Perhaps one of the most well-known and popular kinds of smart home devices is a smart TV. These TVs have changed the way many people view entertainment.

They can do much more than your average TV, and on top of that, there is often no need to struggle with cables to get your laptop connected to your TV – most entertainment apps can be downloaded directly onto the TV itself. This has made viewing things on streaming sites much easier.

A smart TV is so much more than just a TV. It is an entertainment hub that you need in your life if you enjoy having fun and relaxing in your free time.

Virtual assistants
You likely know of at least one person who uses a device like a Google Home, an Amazon Alexa, or something similar. While some may find it strange to think about having a virtual assistant, these devices can be life-changing.

You can use them for a wide range of things. If you are focused on productivity, use them to set reminders and alarms. If you like learning new things, ask them questions. And, of course, they are also handy when it comes to entertainment since they can stream music, play your favorite audiobook, or even help you entertain guests by playing games via the device.

Smart lights
If you have a smart home, you may have trouble deciding what to connect first. We recommend starting with the lights. While this may seem like something small, it can come in handy to be able to switch lights on and off in certain rooms, even if you are not actually in the room.

On top of that, you might also be able to install dim lights and control them via the app that controls your smart home.

This can help you to create a certain atmosphere using lights. Lighting can improve many aspects of your life, so play around with it to see which settings you prefer.

Smart fridges
It’s no wonder that smart home technology is so popular when you think about the fact that it can be used in nearly every aspect of your life. Smart fridges are one particular kind of smart technology that can be very useful.

These fridges have advanced technology that can help them detect what is stored in your fridge. This can be very helpful because it can alert you when an item is about to expire. They often also have cameras, wi-fi connectivity, and a touch screen to make it easier for you to navigate the fridge and its contents.

In conclusion
While many people may be skeptical about smart home technology, there’s no denying that it has made great advances and can help people in many different ways. You don’t necessarily need to use every kind of smart home technology on the market, but you can most likely find at least one device that will improve your life.

Smart home technology can be especially for people who live alone and have worries about their safety and security, and it’s also a great investment for those who enjoy entertainment.

Overall, while it might not be for everybody, it’s worth looking into it.

ALSO READ: WHY SMART HOME TECHNOLOGY IS BECOMING POPULAR

The post 5 Types of Smart Home Technology to Buy in 2022 appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Within this guide, readers will learn more about the immense reasons to take advantage of smart home technology.

Security

While there are many others, most people are using smart home technology to improve their security. They’re worried about the influx in crime around the country. Therefore, they’re looking for ways to protect their homes and loved ones. Using smart home cameras and alarms can make a huge difference. Smart home cameras are designed to monitor the interior and exterior portions of the home. They can create video clips once motion is detected. Then, those videos are going to be uploaded to the cloud so they can be viewed later. As a result, this is a good way to collect evidence of any crime that took place on your property.

Others are more advanced. For instance, they can send an alert to your phone when a motion is detected. Others can notify the authorities. Either way, it is a good idea to use smart home security so you can protect your home from criminals.

ALSO READ: REASONS WHY YOU NEED TO INVEST IN A HOME SECURITY SYSTEM

Peace of Mind

It can be difficult for parents to leave their children at home. Even if they’re teenagers, you’re likely going to worry about them every minute of the day. If this is the case, you should do something to put your mind at ease. One of the best ways to calm your nerves is by using smart home technology. Using this technology can help you relax when you’re away from home. First, you can use smart home cameras to find out what is going on in your home. You can check the live feed to make sure everything is okay at home. You’ll also find that many of these cameras feature two-way microphones. You can talk to people in the home, and they can talk to you.

It is wise to use smart home technology to keep an eye on your loved ones. When you do, you can rest assured knowing everything is right at home.

Preparing Your Home

When you get home from work, you likely turn on your air conditioner, load สล็อตเว็บใหญ่ที่สุด, and watch television. Your home is hot because your HVAC system has been turned off all day. Wouldn’t it be nice to return home to a cool, comfortable dwelling? Ultimately, you can use smart home technology to ensure that your home is cool and comfortable when you arrive. By using this technology, you can control your HVAC system using your smartphone. Plus, you can set up schedules for your lights, television, computers, and other appliances.

For instance, you can make your HVAC unit turn on when you leave work. The possibilities are endless. Either way, you can use smart home technologies to ensure that you never return home to an uncomfortable home again.

Special Deliveries

From time to time, you’ll receive visits from strangers. For instance, the USPS man might have a package for you. You don’t want to leave the package outside since it could get wet or stolen. Instead, you should make sure that the deliveryman is going to take the package inside. Unfortunately, this isn’t possible when you’re not at home. If you have smart home technology, you can let them in regardless. You can use a smart lock to open the door from anywhere. Therefore, you can let them in and lock the door when they leave.

No Keys

Finally, you’ll agree that losing your house keys will be incredibly annoying. It happens more often than most people would like to admit. When it does happen, you might have to hire a locksmith. If you’re lucky, you’ll crawl through the window. Would you like to avoid this problem? If so, you should switch to the latest smart home technologies. With an innovative smart lock, you can open your door using your smartphone. Therefore, you’ll never have to worry about losing your house key ever again.

ALSO READ: TECH GADGETS THAT CAN TURN YOUR TRADITIONAL HOME INTO A SMART HOME

The post Editor’s Pick: Why Smart Home Technology is so Popular appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Have you ever stopped to wonder why that pattern is the way it is? Why do some people choose home security while others don’t, even if they’re in the same neighborhood?

There must be a reason why these particular people have chosen to make their homes and properties more secure from potential burglars and other criminals.

And perhaps those people’s reasons for getting home security systems could be reasons you yourself might decide to invest in one.

If you’ve been toying with the idea of securing your property this way but are still on the fence, we’re here to lay out three reasons to invest in a home security system.

Home Security Discourages Crime

Even before the various components of your home security system have the chance to work at all, your system will be acting in your favor due to the role it plays in deterring crime in the first place.

We mentioned earlier those home security signs that are usually placed in people’s front yards. Those aren’t just advertising for the security company. They’re there to let criminals know that, should they try anything funny on this property, they will most likely be caught.

If you’re planning to rob a house, and you see a security sign in the yard, don’t you think you’ll be moving on to the next house? We sure do.

Home Security Keeps You Safe

Of course, if a criminal ever did try to enter your house, and you have a security system, that system would alert you of the breach immediately. And it will likely do so in spectacular fashion.

What do we mean by that? We’re talking alarms blaring and the security company calling the police for you.

As we said above, what criminal is going to be sticking around once it becomes obvious that there’s a security system in place?

So, if you have certain valuables in your house, or if you’re just looking to keep yourself and your family safe, a home security system will give you that peace of mind.

Home Security Can Monitor for Emergencies

Some of you out there probably didn’t know this, but, depending on the type of system you get, you can choose to have your alarm notify you of house issues such as fires or gas leaks.

Those are obviously critical emergencies you’d want to know about immediately. Again, depending on your options, you can choose to be alerted yourself or have your security company contact the police for you to save time.

What it all comes down to is this, though: if you didn’t know the benefits of home security before, we sure hope you know them now. Not only are these systems built for deterring crime, but they can also keep your home safe from dangerous situations such as fires.

If you aren’t investing in a home security system right now, it may be time to consider it.

ALSO READ: TECH GADGETS THAT CAN TURN YOUR TRADITIONAL HOME INTO A SMART HOME

The post 3 Reasons to Invest in a Home Security System appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.

Today, you can make your home a little more livable—and a lot more automated—by simply adding appliances and devices you can control from anywhere using a smartphone or a computer. In general, these products connect to the internet, and you can be able to control them from your smartphone via a companion app or using the web on your computer. One of the coolest things about smart devices most of them also work with various forms of voice control.

With Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant or Siri, you can adjust the lightings, air conditioning, control your doors, entertainment devices, and any other appliances with voice commands.

Enough with the chit-chat. Here is a 10-rundown of smart devices you can have at your home. There are so many products to turn your old-school home into a smart home, but these are some we can mention—and you can start with.

1. Wireless Door/Window Sensors and Smart Locks
For a smart home plan, you need these sensor devices that can monitor your doors and windows providing the perfect security and you can easily monitor them remotely with the help of an app. These sensors can send a text message/email when any intrusive activity is detected, alerting you on time. You can use them as well to verify your doors and windows are closed in case you doubt whether you locked them.

When the key to your house is on your phone or entered into a keypad, you don’t need to worry as much about the possibility of untrustworthy people entering unnoticed. When you choose to go for a smart lock instead of a deadbolt, you get greater control over who enters your home and when. These locks can be controlled via an app and you can simply buzz someone in your house from anywhere.

2. Video doorbells
The video doorbell allows users to see and speak to visitors, delivery persons, or an unwanted solicitor knocking on your door even while you’re away or unable to answer. These devices can serve as the first line of defense against property theft, or home invasions. They not only let you see and speak with the person outside, but they are also capable of streaming high-resolution video(s) with a 180-degree maximum field of view, including in the dark.

They are usually weatherproof devices and some have a built-in siren, as well as the ability to contact emergency services if necessary. They can automatically call your phone, or send you notifications if it detects motion.

3. Wireless or Smart light bulbs

Lighting at home has become convenient with an intelligent lighting system—therefore you can say goodbye to the conventional on & off wall switch and experience the new-age smart lighting system that can be controlled using an app or voice commands. You can turn the lights on or off remotely, or schedule them to turn on or off with your phone.

Beyond offering greater convenience than traditional bulbs, smart lights use less energy and last longer, so they can save you money in the long run.

4. Indoor home security cameras
For any smart home, you seriously can’t fail to have indoor security cameras. It’s a good idea to invest in a Wi-Fi-connected indoor home security camera. They deliver vivid high-resolution video and are packed with features such as local and cloud storage, automatic motion tracking, and support for all the major voice assistance platforms.

5. Robotic vacuum cleaners
Floor cleaning and vacuuming can be made easier with a range of robotic vacuum cleaners. These robotic vacuum cleaners have smart technology with different modes for cleaning all types of flooring. They can detect and navigate obstacles and some have the capability to automatically empty their dust bin. Even when you are not at home, you can pre-set it to clean your floor(s) with its intelligent time scheduling feature. This smart device will ease your cleaning woes.

6. Air purifier
These gadgets purify the air and help maintain appropriate humidity and usually have an aroma diffusion function that removes bad odors from the room. They consume less power and are energy efficient. A removable tank makes refilling easy. It is a great lifestyle gadget for the home that regulates humidity and the circulation of high-quality air.

7. Connected thermostat
You can monitor and control your home’s heating and cooling system by phone or voice. You can put them in different rooms to ensure a consistent temperature throughout the house. Some of these advanced or new models of thermostats learn your heating and cooling preferences throughout the day and night, then automatically sets up a personalized schedule.

8. Smart kitchen appliances
These can help you with every step of the cooking process. Some of the smartest countertops you can have for your kitchen can include but are not limited to a smart oven, smart microwave, smart refrigerators, smart coffee makers, air fryers, and Instant Pots, to mention a few.

Having a smart oven can let you bake, roast, slow cook, or steam food to perfection. Its companion app allows you to control and monitor the oven from your phone, load cooking presets onto the machine as well as offer step-by-step cooking instructions.

Smart coffee makers can be controlled by an app and voice commands to turn it on and off and set the brew strength. You can also program it to automatically brew your coffee at specific times.

9. Pet treat dispenser with cameras
If you have a pet at home, then this is a cool tech gadget for the pet owner. These automatic pet feeders deliver on both counts by managing mealtimes and portion sizes and allowing you to see, speak to, and record your pet from the device via an app. Ideal for busy or traveling pet owners, this gadget will make you and your four-legged friends equally happy.

10. Smart plug
With a smart plug, you can turn anything that plugs into the wall—be it a lamp, heater, humidifier—into a connected device that you can control from your phone. One of the most recommended is the ConnectSense Smart Outlet 2, it lets you independently control two outlets, tells you how much power each one is drawing, and has a handy USB charging port.

Honorable Mentions

1. Smart TV.
2. Smart soundbar speaker.
3. Virtual assistants; Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomePod.
4. Smart Wi-Fi Power Strip.
5. Smart baby monitor.
6. Smart bed.
7. Smart Sprinkler Controller.

Conclusion
Having a smart home does also comes with risks, such as security breaches, and device prices. But all in all, we can therefore gladly say that advancements in-home technology have provided for a wealth of time-saving, money-saving, and even life-saving tech gadgets.

The post Tech Gadgets That Turn Your Traditional Home into a Smart Home appeared first on PC Tech Magazine.