Apple Smart Home Hub Rumor Roundup: 7-Inch Display, Facial Recognition, & Widgets!
Andrew covers a fast-moving smart home news roundup before diving into the latest Apple smart home rumors, including signs of a new Smart Home Hub, a possible Home OS, and related accessories. Key topics Homey adds solar forecasting and export pricing Comcast’s Wi-Fi Motion feature Eufy’s new NVR security camera system Shelly’s battery-powered flood sensor TCL’s Matter-enabled smart lock Malware found in cheap Android TV boxes Sonos hardware leaks and Live Activities support Apple’s rumored…
Natural Language Instructions for Matic Robot, Apple Intelligence Limits, & Mophie 4-in-1 Review
Andrew O'Hara flies solo this week and covers a packed smart home update with new Apple Home and iOS 27 details, notable product launches from Govee, Eufy, Abode, Sonos, Lutron, SwitchBot, PetLibro, Matic, Dashboard, and Mophie. The episode is especially useful if you care about how Apple Intelligence is being tied to iCloud tiers, or you want to see which new devices are actually doing something meaningfully different. In this episode, Andrew breaks down the newest Apple Home camera summary limits,…
Flight Tracking Poster, Schlage Sense Pro Review, & Listener Questions with Dan Wroclawski from Consumer Reports
This week's guest host is Daniel Wroclawski, Senior Home & Appliances Writer at Consumer Reports. Andrew and Dan cover the latest smart home news, from Apple Home dashboard apps and new Matter gear to premium locks, Matter dehumidifiers, smart shades, and mesh router recommendations. They also answer listener questions and share practical advice on the best products for real-world homes. Highlights Home Deck app for Apple TV and iPad Leviton’s new Matter-over-Wi-Fi Decora switch and dimmer Ubiquiti…
U.S. Bans Foreign Robovacs & How Z-Wave is Staying Relevant in 2026 with Guest Avi Rosenthal
In this episode, Andrew sits down with Avi Rosenthal, chair of the Z-Wave Alliance, to explore the future of smart home technology, the role of open standards, and why Z-Wave still matters in a world of Matter, Thread, and Wi‑Fi. They also dig into recent government restrictions on smart devices, the rise of Z-Wave Long Range, and what true interoperability looks like in the connected home. Topics covered: The new ban on foreign robotics to the U.S. New rumors on Apple's smart home timeline A new…
Matter-Enabled Monitor Stand, Big Sonos App Update, & A New Studio!
In this episode, Andrew explores the latest smart home upgrades, from energy-monitoring smart plugs and Nanoleaf’s modular desk stand to the growing Matter-powered camera ecosystem. He shares practical insights on reliability, privacy, and compatibility to help you build a smarter home that actually works. Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at: @andrew_osu on Twitter @andrewohara941 on Threads Email me here Sponsored…
Public Beta of tvOS 27, Thread Humidifier, & Smart Home Wi-Fi with Plume CPO Alan Coleman
In this episode, Andrew talks with Alan Coleman, CPO at Plume, about how the company is moving beyond Wi-Fi management to improve the overall connected-home experience. They cover smart home reliability, AI-powered troubleshooting, cybersecurity, and why open standards like Thread and Matter matter for the future of home networking. Topics covered: Plume’s shift from hardware to software How ISPs use Plume to manage home connectivity AI, customer care, and network optimization Thread, Matter, and…
Dueling Ceiling Lights, Eve Giveaway, & AI e-Ink Art Frame Review
Dive into this episode where we have a giveaway from Eve to celebrate the World Cup. We also explore the latest in smart home tech, including exciting product launches from Third Reality, Zemismart, Nanoleaf, and Switchbot. Find out how these innovations can enhance your living space and streamline your automation setup. In this episode: Eve's new soccer-themed product bundle, including the Eve Flare and exclusive stickers, scarf, and NFC coaster Overview of recent ceiling lights from Switchbot and…
How Thread is Fixing Smart Home Networking with Ann Olivo
Dive into this episode where we unpack recent developments on Thread features and partnerships, to industry shifts in pricing and product launches. Stay informed about what’s next in IoT and how it impacts your connected home setup. Joining this week is Ann Olivo, VP of marketing for the Thread Group. Key topics: The new Thread app and its features, including network visualization tools for developers Apple’s iOS 27 beta and updates to HomePod, Apple TV, and their impact on smart home automation…
Smart Home Connectivity 101: Ultimate Explainer Mega-Episode
Unlock the secrets to building a future-proof smart home with the most comprehensive breakdown of connectivity options ever! Whether you're a beginner or looking to upgrade, discover how Wi-Fi, Thread, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and proprietary protocols each play a unique role—and how they can all coexist seamlessly. This episode unveils why Thread is gaining rapid adoption, how Matter is revolutionizing device interoperability, and why Wi-Fi isn't the only game in town anymore. Dive into this in-depth…
The Future of Smart Home Security with ADT's Jimmy Lin
In this episode, Andrew is joined by Jimmy Lin from ADT who shares the insider story behind ADT's new DIY-focused Blu system—an easy-to-install, smart security kit designed for the modern homeowner. We break down how ADT may leverage open standards like Matter and Z-Wave, aiming to unify the smart home ecosystem and finally bridge the gap between security and automation. You'll uncover: How ADT’s innovative products like the new Live Light smart sign and color night-vision cameras empower…
Shane Whatley Joins to Discuss Matter Unify, New Gear, & Missing Smart Speakers
Get the latest on smart home industry events, product updates, and new tech launches as Shane Whatley and Andrew discuss everything from the Connectivity Standards Alliance's upcoming public event, HomeBridge 2.0, to new Govee floor lamps and SwitchBot fans. Whether you're a casual enthusiast or a tinkering DIYer, this episode covers essential updates and practical insights to keep your smart home ahead. Main Topics: Upcoming Connectivity Standards Alliance event: What it means for smart home…