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Smart Home Guides

Google Home icon on home screen.

How to use the Google Home app on a computer

Want to add Google Home's smart controls to your computer? While there's no desktop app, you can try one of these workarounds to get Google Home on your PC.
The Shark Rotator vacuum in action.

Red, green, flashing: What do my Shark vacuum’s lights mean?

Have you noticed a solid or flashing red light somewhere on your Shark vacuum? It's a sign there's something wrong with the unit, and we're here to help.
Amazon Smart Plug.

How to set a timer on Amazon Smart Plugs

If you're looking to automate your outlets, Amazon Smart Plugs are a great option. Here's what you need to know about creating a timer for your smart plugs.
The Vizio OLED 4K HDR TV in living room.

How to connect Alexa to your TV for smart voice control

Alexa is a powerful smart assistant that can even control your TV. Here's how to connect Alexa to your smart TV, set-top box, or streaming device.
An Echo Hub mounted on the wall near a living room.

Echo Hub vs. Echo Show 8: Which is the best option for your smart home?

The Echo Hub and Echo Show 8 both feature a large touchscreen and give you access to the Alexa voice assistant. But which one is best for your smart home?
A person using the Amazon Echo Hub.

What is the Amazon Echo Hub?

The Echo Hub is the newest addition to Amazon's product family, but it's not a smart speaker or smart display. Here's what you need to know about the Echo Hub.
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 installed near a door.

How to use Amazon Echo as a doorbell chime

Your Echo device can be linked to your video doorbell, allowing the former to issue a chime when the latter is rung. Here’s how to set this up in the Alexa app!
Drop In on the Amazon Echo Show 10.

How to Drop In on an Echo, Echo Show, or Echo Dot

Amazon's Drop In feature allows users to communicate through Echo devices. Here's how to use the Drop In feature with your Echo smart speakers.
The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro on display the 2023 Amazon Fall Devices and Services event.

Does the Ring Stick Up Cam Pro rotate or swivel?

The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro is a premium security camera, but does it rotate or swivel? Here's what you need to know before adding it to your home.
The Canary Pro next to the Ring Stick Up Cam pro

Ring Stick Up Cam Pro vs. Canary Pro: Which is the better security camera?

The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro is a popular security camera, but how does it stack up to the lesser-known Canary Pro? Here's a comprehensive look at both.
iRobot Roomba i3 Plus cleaning a wooden floor.

Roomba not connecting to Wi-Fi? Here’s how to fix it

Are you having trouble connecting your new iRobot Roomba to your home network? Or does it keep falling off your Wi-Fi? Here are a few fixes you can try.
An Arlo Smart Hub on a wooden table.

Do Arlo Essential cameras require the Arlo Smart Hub?

Arlo offers a Smart Hub to help get your devices online, but do the Arlo Essential cameras require the Smart Hub? Here's everything you need to know.
A coral Google Nest Mini mounted on a brick wall.

The most common Google Nest Mini problems and how to fix them

Having problems with your Google Nest Mini? Our guide will take you through common issues users have with the Mini, along with the best methods to fix them.
The Ring Video Doorbell 3 installed near a door.

Do you need a subscription for a Ring doorbell or camera?

Ring makes some of the best video doorbells and security cameras on the market, but do you need a subscription to use them? Here's everything you need to know.
Blink Outdoor cam wet from the rain.

Can you use a Blink Outdoor Camera without a subscription?

Blink's outdoor camera is affordable and has great battery life, but do you absolutely need a subscription to use it? Our guide will cover the key details.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro installed near a door.

Ring Battery Doorbell Pro vs. Nest Doorbell: Which is the better video doorbell?

The new Ring Battery Doorbell Pro shares many features with the Nest Doorbell, yet carries a slightly higher price. But is it worth the investment?
Alexa listening indicator.

Protect your personal data: how to secure an Alexa device

Is Alexa safe and secure? You can certainly take some precautions to better secure your Alexa device. Check out our guide to improve Alexa privacy and security.
Sonos Move 2 in white on green park bench.

11 Sonos tips, tricks, and little-known features

Interested in getting the most out of your Sonos speakers? These are the tips and tricks you need to know when using a Sonos speaker for top-tier audio.
A Eufy video doorbell installed near a door.

Should you buy a wired or wireless video doorbell?

Wired and wireless video doorbells are great options for your front door, but they both come with unique advantages and disadvantages. Here's a look at both.
Google Nest audio color options

How to change Google Assistant’s voice (and language)

Tired of Google Assistant's voice? If you own a Google Home speaker, you can change your Google Assistant's default voice to something that suits your tastes.
Apple Home opened with the Vision Pro Headset.

Does Apple Home work on the Apple Vision Pro?

Apple Home works on Apple Vision Pro, though it's not quite as innovative as you'd expect. Here's what you need to know about Apple Home on Apple Vision Pro.
A Eufy video doorbell installed near a door.

Check out these Ring video doorbell alternatives that don’t require a subscription

Ring offers great video doorbells, but there are plenty of alternatives that don't force you into a monthly subscription. Here are some brands to consider.
How to turn off Google Assistant

How to turn off Google Assistant on any device

Uncomfortable with Google Assistant? Tired of it popping up uninvited? Our simple guide will show you how to limit it or turn it off altogether on any device.

How to turn your old phone into a security camera

Have an old phone and don’t know what to do with it? We've rounded up the top apps that allow you to turn your unused smartphone into a home security device.
The Ring Elite installed on a wall.

Everything you need to know about the Ring Protect price hike

The Ring Protect Basic price hike takes effect on March 11, 2024. Here's everything you need to know about the Ring price hike before it kicks in.
The Google Nest Learning Thermostat mounted on an office wall above a desk and lamp.

How to add multiple users to your Google Home (Nest) device

Want to personalize the Google Home experience for each individual member of your household? Here's how to add more than one user on your Google Home device.

Can Alexa call 911? How to set up Alexa for emergencies

You may be wondering whether or not Alexa can call 911. Here's how to use Alexa to help promote safety.
Ring Indoor Cam on a table.

How to prevent your Ring smart camera from being hacked

Here are some simple ways to keep hackers from using your Ring smart cameras and invading your privacy at home -- even if you have many users on the account.
Amazon Echo (4th Gen) on a kitchen counter.

How to change Alexa’s voice (and language)

Is Alexa's default voice not your cup of tea? You can change Alexa’s settings and have her speak in another language or regional accent. Here’s how.
The Echo Show 10 on a kitchen counter.

Echo Show 8 vs. Echo Show 10: is the bigger device a better smart display?

The Echo Show 10 offers a larger display and more features than the Echo Show 8, but is it worth the hefty price tag? Here's a look at both to help you decide.
A bunch of colorful shapes on a black background.

What is IFTTT and how can you use it in your smart home?

If you're looking to build powerful smart home automations, IFTTT needs to be on your radar. Here's a look at the app and how IFTTT can improve your smart home.
How to delete apps from Apple TV.

How to delete apps on an Apple TV

Looking to clear some clutter from your Apple TV interface? You can easily delete the apps you don't want to see. Here's how it works and what to do.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus installed outside a front door.

Ring Battery Doorbell Pro vs. Ring Battery Doorbell Plus: Is the new Pro model worth it?

The Ring Battery Doorbell Pro is the newest addition to the Ring catalog, but how does it stack up to the existing Ring Battery Doorbell Plus?
Echo Dot 4th Gen Clock Model

How to change Alexa’s name or the name Alexa calls you

This guide explains how to change Alexa's name, as well as the name Alexa calls you, in a few easy to follow steps.