New electronics galore for all high-tech needs
The smart home devices were abundant at this year’s Consumer electronics Show in Las Vegas in January. Here are a few that stood out.
ADT Security Services introduced its Video Doorbell that will integrate with the rest of the home security products under the ADT Pulse brand. Locking or unlocking doors and activating the whole-house alarm system can be controlled via the mobile app.
A new conversion kit from Kwikset lets you turn traditional door locks into smart locks you can control from any Internet-connected device. The Z-Wave technology is compatible with several major lock brands, not just Kwikset, and allows users to monitor which doors are locked as well as provide remote entry to their home for visitors.
The Caseta lighting system by Lutron combines making life easier with several security features. In addition to customizing lighting preferences and schedules, the device has an All On bedside button option that turns all the preselected lights in the house to ward off intruders. It also can turn lights on and off randomly to make it appear that someone is home. The lighting system also integrates with Nest Thermostat and smoke alarms. If the alarm is triggered, blinds will open and lights will turn on
automatically so people can see their way to escape.
Ring, the home security company once known only for its line of video doorbells, has unveiled a full suite of monitoring devices that integrate with their new app. This includes a set of battery-powered and motion-activated outdoor lights that integrate with the alarm and cameras to send alerts to the user’s mobile device. It also includes motion-activated cameras (some of which can be battery powered), flood and freeze detectors, smoke and carbon monoxide sensors and a discreet control hub that integrates all the systems.
Home security system Vivent previewed its Streety, which lets neighbors upload recordings from their security cameras to share with other approved users (they must live within a 300-yard radius). Users can attach messages to the recordings to start a conversation about the recorded event as well as request footage from other users for specific dates and times. The app will debut this spring.
Beam, one of several home-monitoring devices showcased by Zmodo, sends alerts to a mobile device when doors are open (including interior doors), extends a home’s Wi-Fi range and provides LED night lighting in three color options.
HVAC
Carrier introduced a ductless air conditioner with the highest efficiency rating on the market. The 9,000 BTUh single-zone air conditioner can also provide heat during winter and manage humidity levels using an integrated humidity sensor. It comes with a connected Wi-Fi feature so users can control the device via the mobile app and a motion detector to reduce energy use when no one is in the room.
SMART MIRROR
Verdera, the Alexa-enabled smart mirror by Kohler, can adjust to lighting customizations, play music and podcasts from sites such as Pandora and Spotify, and provide a motion-activated night light.
PLUMBING
Part of the Neorest collection by luxury plumbing company Toto includes a bathtub that lets users mimic the natural position of astronauts. Referred to as Zero Dimension technology, the Flotation Tub adds gentle water jets so you can achieve a feeling of weightlessness while here on earth.
COOKING
The Over-the-Range Microwave allows home cooks to send cooking instructions (for frozen food) to their microwaves via a mobile device, including multi-step directions if the recipe requires a change in temperature or settings partway through cooking.