Tag Archives: connected home

Smarter FridgeCam helps to prevent spoiled and wasted food @ CES 2023



Smarter FridgeCam prevent food wasteNo one likes to find spoiled food in the fridge, especially when you are expecting to prepare a meal. Food waste these days is not something that should happen, especially for families with several children, as the price of groceries seems to be increasing on a daily basis. However, it can be a challenge to remember when you bought certain items, and certain to know how long each item lasts. This is where the Smarter FridgeCam and Smarter FoodCam come in.

What is Smarter FridgeCam?

The Smarter FridgeCam is a camera that goes either on the fridge door or the door shelf. It takes pictures every time you open or close the fridge door. Using those photos, FridgeCam will tell you what’s in there and if it needs to be tossed.

The camera then pairs with the app that works with deep learning algorithms that detect what is there and when
it was added. Using that information, the system can determine the freshness of each item and whether or not it’s time to use it up or throw it away. This is great for managing easily spoiled items, such as yogurt and milk, but also veggies that get lost in the back of the fridge.

What is Smarter FoodCam?

The FoodCam is a smart item that goes in your cupboards to help keep track of non-perishable food items. The camera is the smaller sibling to the FridgeCam, but is designed to go into your cupboards, rather than the refrigerator. Because of the warmer environment, the camera uses a smaller battery, since rechargeable batteries lose power in cold environments.

The camera adds to your kitchen management, allowing you to keep track of items such as soups, bread, cereals, and more. These can often be the forgotten parts of our kitchens since they are more hidden away from us than even the items in the fridge. People try to use them well past their expiration date because they simply don’t know when they bought them or when they go bad.

How can you use the data?

One of the connected aspects of the system is Kitchen Sync. This feature allows you to connect various inputs, including the data from your cameras, but also smart speakers, like Alexa. In addition to knowing when it’s time to buy milk because of the expiration date, you can also enter data using Alexa, saying, “Alexa, I need milk” and she will add it to your shopping list.

This feature is great for when you are going to be using more than usual, such as around the holidays. It’s also helpful if you’re about to get into baking, where you would need more eggs, milk, etc.

In addition, the system integrates with Chefling, which Smarter recently acquired. Chefling is an app that helps you find and execute recipes. When integrated with Smarter and KitchenSync, it helps you to use up your food by suggesting recipes with what’s available so your food doesn’t spoil and go to waste.

Summary

It will be available for pre-order soon. The cost is $99.00 for the FridgeCam and $69.00 for the FoodCam. For more information go to the company’s website.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.


ADT pairs the power of Google Nest and monitored security @ CES 2023



ADT Smart Home SecurityHome security is a top focus for a lot of people. The problem is that creating a safe and secure home can be challenging. You can buy pre-fabbed kits with connected sensors, but you end up locked into their ecosystem, but you’re required to monitor and respond to the alerts yourself. The other option is to go with an installed and monitored system, but you’re usually locked into their proprietary hardware, so if you ever want to change, you’re pretty much out of luck. Luckily, ADT has found an excellent middle-ground for consumers.

Who is ADT?

ADT is one of the biggest names in monitored home security. The company helps people to protect their homes without having to worry about installation, monitoring, or managing a home security system. The biggest advantage of one of the company’s systems is that emergency response is 8 times faster when managed by ADT as opposed to other competitors or even self-monitoring.

For those who are interested in their own installation, either for privacy reasons or a DIY spirit, ADT offers self-setup systems. Even if you install a system yourself, you had the ability to use the company’s monitoring services to improve peace of mind.

ADT’s connected home

In the spirit of self-installation and expanded options, ADT has begun offering connected home options. The company’s monitoring system can now be integrated with Google’s Nest product line. This means that Nest Cams, Nest Doorbells, Nest Thermostats, and even Nest Wi-Fi can be connected to ADT monitoring. In fact, you can use these connected devices while also having professional setup from the company’s installers.

One of the benefits of using consumer smart devices as part of your professional security setup is that you get all of the benefits of a smarthome while also getting all of the benefits of an ADT system. Using the Nest product line means that you can connect to your cameras, thermostat, and more while you are away. So, if someone rings your doorbell, you can see who is at the door even if you are on vacation. But, if there is a problem, an agent is able to respond and call the authorities if needed.

In addition, by using regular consumer hardware, you have the ability to make a change to your setup if needed. A change in life circumstances might mean you need to discontinue active monitoring. In that event, you are able to still access your Nest devices on your own and maintain security for your home on your own. This gives some flexibility in the hardware you have installed, as opposed to being stuck installing hardware that only works with the service provider that installed it. This gives owners more choices and reduces electronic waste in the event of a change.

Summary

ADT’s traditional security hardware and Google Nest integration are available for professional and self installation now. For more information about the company’s product and service offerings, you can head to their website or call (800) 750-0372.

Interview by Daniele Mendez of The New Product Launchpad.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.


DeNova Detect is an essential natural gas detector @ CES 2023



DeNova Detect Natural Gas DetectorThese days, we have a lot of sensors in our homes. Nearly everyone has a fire alarm and a carbon monoxide alarm. In addition, we’ve got motion sensors, security cameras, smart speakers and thermostats with presence detection, and a lot more. But, one threat detection that appears to be missing for no known reason is natural gas detection. New Cosmos USA is looking to change this with the DeNova Detect natural gas detector.

What is DeNova Detect?

DeNova Detect is a natural gas detector that uses superior patented sensor technology to detect gas concentrations up to 11 minutes sooner than other technologies. The product line also features an advanced algorithm that ensures false alarms due to household chemicals and sprays are eliminated. The gas sensor is designed with minimal power consumption, allowing it to run on one battery for up to 10 years.

DeNova Detect also has a revolutionary design that allows it to be installed close to the ceiling where natural gas accumulates, eliminating the need for a potentially dangerous and unattractive cord. Finally, DeNova Detect is designed with a panic-reducing voice alert that instructs people in a simple way: “Danger – Gas leak explosion risk – evacuate, then call 911.”

Why do you need DeNova Detect?

Natural gas is a colorless, odorless gas (though processed gas has a light smell added for safety) that can be difficult to detect. In recent years, the number of natural gas leaks has increased significantly. These leaks can lead to physical issues for people and pets. But, at its worst, can lead to explosions.

The quantity of natural gas explosions has gone up significantly in recent years. While experts aren’t entirely sure why this is happening, the most likely cause is the aging infrastructure used to transfer the gas to our homes. As the system ages, leaks are bound to increase. On top of that, better construction processes might actually be trapping the leaking gas in homes in a way that previously might not have been the case.

DeNova Detect is specifically designed to detect natural gas and alert you of its presence so you can take the proper safety precautions. Without DeNova Detect, it would be nearly impossible to know when there is a potential gas leak in your home or business, especially if you are not at home or asleep. DeNova Detect provides a level of protection that is essential for any household.

Summary

What DeNova Detect provides is a valuable service that can help save lives and property in the event of a gas emergency. The product is an affordable solution for homeowners, renters, business owners and anyone else who could benefit from early detection of natural gas. DeNova Detect provides peace of mind and protection from the unexpected.

The DeNova Detect smart gas sensor will be available soon. To learn more about the company or the platform, or to sign up to be alerted when the product becomes available, head over to the product website.

Interview by Marlo Anderson of The Tech Ranch.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.


VersaWare helps you eat healthy while saving time @ CES 2023



VersaWare Healthy Eating TechVersaWare is on a mission to help you get healthy and save time. They provide users with a culinary ecosystem that is tailored specifically to their health goals. Their recipe-AI and real-time nutrition breakdowns make it easy to create healthy meals quickly and efficiently. With VersaWare, you can finally achieve your health goals without sacrificing your time!

What is VersaWare?

VersaWare is an AI-powered platform that puts the power of a personal chef in the hands of everyone. Through their AI-based recipe engine, VersaWare helps users create delicious, healthy meals quickly and efficiently. Their nutritional breakdowns help you track your daily caloric intake and easily adjust dietary preferences to meet specific health goals. From fresh ingredients to detailed recipes, to meal plans and nutrition guidance, VersaWare’s culinary ecosystem has everything you need for healthy eating success.

How does VersaWare work?

VersaWare combines the power of AI with physical kitchen gadgets to help you prepare healthy food that tastes great and, most importantly, that you’ll enjoy. This pairing is the secret ingredient to their own corporate recipe. By using smart kitchen items, the platform is able to help you go through recipes to ensure that you are only using the quantity of ingredients that you are supposed to.

Why is this important? Because counting calories only works if you are able to be accurate about it. If a recipe calls for 1/4 pound of ground beef, but you accidentally use 1/3 pound, then the number of calories you will get from the meal is larger. Similarly, the fat intake will increase. Quantifying your ingredients like this allows you to have a very accurate log of your food.

Currently, the company is focusing on two kitchen implements: a smart mixing bowl and a smart cutting board. The decision was made to focus here because they are items that everyone uses and have a large impact. Both items are able to weigh what is put into them and, combined with the information entered by the user about what is being used, the system can calculate an incredibly accurate nutritional matrix for the meal.

Of course, as they are intended for the kitchen, both items are easily washable and waterproof. Both connect to your phone or tablet via Wi-Fi to allow tracking and ingredient steps. And, the system was a recipe AI to help you plan out what you want to eat while still being healthy.

Who is VersaWare for?

VersaWare is the perfect solution for busy people who want to get healthy without sacrificing their time. With VersaWare, you can create tasty dishes quickly and easily while also tracking your nutrition intake. VersaWare’s culinary ecosystem makes meal planning simple and efficient, so that you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the food that you make. Get healthy and save time with VersaWare!

VersaWare products are in a beta phase with a few products in testers’ hands. The company plans to finalize production and bring the devices to market in the Summer of 2023. To join the waitlist or to learn more about the product line, check out the company’s website.

Interview by Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.


SECURAM Systems: Wi-Fi-enabled biometric home smart lock @ CES 2022



SECURAM Systems smart securityEvery aspect of our lives is getting smarter. From our cars to our lightbulbs, we have the ability to turn things on and off, lock and unlock devices, and open and close our doors. One company that is getting serious about connecting one of the most high-profile aspects of our homes, our door locks, is SECURAM Systems, which has introduced a new smart lock for the home.

Who is SECURAM Systems?

SECURAM Systems, Inc., a leading supplier of safe locks, announced that it has won the Mark of Excellence Award from the Consumer Technology Association for its EOS Smart Home Lock. The touch-to-open lock can be controlled with your smartphone and comes with a host of features to make your home more secure, including Wi-Fi connectivity and a built-in alarm.

The company’s products are designed to give you peace of mind and security in your home, whether you’re there or not. The company’s commitment to quality has earned it the trust of major banks and financial institutions around the world, which rely on SECURAM’s safe locks to protect their valuables.

What does the SECURAM Smart Home Lock offer?

The SECURAM EOS Smart Home Lock is a touch-to-open lock that can be controlled with your smartphone. The Wi-Fi-enabled lock comes with a built-in alarm and is designed to make your home more secure. It contains a number of features that we have come to expect from connected locks, such as a keypad and biometric sensor. But, it adds some features that are missing on other products.

First, it is a fully connected lock. That means that you can access the state of the lock remotely. This is important for a couple of reasons. First, you can verify that you have locked your door even after you’ve left the house. If you forgot, you can fix it remotely, as well. Plus, you can unlock it if someone is there and is having trouble getting in.

Most interestingly, the company has directly addressed the lack of a physical key. Normally, the key is a backup in the event the battery fails or the sensors stop functioning correctly. In the case of this lock, the company has added a hidden 9-volt battery contact on the outside. With that, you can power the lock for a short burst in order to get in. The biggest drawback is that no one carries a 9-volt battery, and most people don’t have one at all (outside of a smoke detector).

What are some other features of SECURAM’s home security suite?

In addition to the SECURAM Smart Home Lock, the company also offers a line of new products in its home security suite, including a garage door controller, a smart light switch, and a siren that detects intrusions. These products are designed to give you peace of mind and security in your home, whether you’re there or not.

The SECURAM Garage Door Controller lets you control your garage door from your smartphone. The controller is Wi-Fi-enabled and comes with an app that allows you to open and close your garage door from anywhere in the world. You can also set up alerts so that you’re notified when someone opens or closes your garage door.

The SECURAM Smart Light Switch gives you the ability to turn on and off your lights remotely. The switch is Wi-Fi-enabled and can be controlled with your smartphone. You can also set up schedules so that your lights turn on and off at certain times of the day.

The SECURAM Siren is a battery-operated device that detects intrusions and sounds an alarm. The siren is designed to alert you to potential danger, whether you’re home or away. The siren can be placed anywhere in your home, and it comes with an app that allows you to control it remotely.

Summary

SECURAM Systems is dedicated to making our homes smarter and more secure. With its new line of home security products, they are helping us do just that. To learn more about SECURAM Systems’ EOS Smart Home Lock or any of its other products, visit the company’s website or Amazon store.

Interview by Christopher Jordan of The Talking Sound.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.


Kwikset Halo: The uncomplicated wi-fi smart locks @ CES 2022



Kwikset Halo Smart LocksKeeping your home secure is important to anyone, whether you own or rent. But, traditional locks require you to carry keys and are only usable when you are in front of them. The ability to check the status of your door, or even let in a family member who has forgotten their key is a big advantage. That is what the Kwikset Halo smart locks are all about.

What are Halo locks?
Halo locks are Wi-Fi-enabled smart locks that can be controlled with your smartphone using the Kwikset app. Kwikset Halo is the latest in smart lock technology, and it offers ultimate security and convenience. With Kwikset Halo, you can manage your locks from anywhere there is an internet connection. Lock and unlock, manage user codes, view lock activity, receive lock notifications, and much more!

The company offers several different products within the Kwikset Halo brand, each with its own set of features.

Halo Touch
The Halo Touch integrates biometrics into the lock, allowing you to lock and unlock the door with just your fingerprint. It can hold up to 100 fingerprints for 50 users, which is a huge collection of users. While a standard home might not have that many people coming and going, a larger rental property might, with cleaning staff, owners, maintenance workers, etc.

All of the user management is done from the app, making it easy to add and remove new people, or even rescan fingers. And because Kwikset is a lock company first, you know that the security is still going to be top-notch. You can get one right now for $249.

Halo Touchscreen Deadbolt
The Halo Touchscreen Deadbolt is the most advanced product in the Kwikset Halo lineup. This lock offers all of the features of the other locks, but it also has a touchscreen keypad for easy entry. The touchscreen keypad can be personalized with up to 16 user codes, and you can choose to have either a numeric or alphabetic code.

This lock operates on four AA batteries, which are included, and it fits standard door preparations. It is available in both satin nickel and Venetian bronze finishes. They are available now for $229.

Halo Keypad
The Halo Keypad is the most basic product in the Kwikset Halo lineup. It is a keyless, touchscreen entry lock that operates on four AA batteries, which are included. This lock fits standard door preparations and comes in both satin nickel and Venetian bronze finishes.

It can hold up to 20 user codes, and you can choose between numeric and alphabetic codes. The best part about this keypad is that it’s Bluetooth-enabled, so you don’t even need an internet connection to use it! Just pair it with your smartphone and you’re good to go. You can get one right now for $199.

Summary
The locks are all available now from Amazon, Home Depot, and Lowe’s. To learn more, you can also check out the company’s website.

Interview by Allante Sparks of PLuGHiTz Live Special Events.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.


Homey: Control all of your devices from anywhere with Flow @ CES 2022



Homey connected home companionConnected homes have become a normal part of our lives, but they can be more frustrating than helpful. This is because not all of our devices work together. Unless you go out of your way, every item you add to your home uses a different app and runs on a different platform. You might get lucky and have access to them through a service like Alexa or Google Assistant, but that’s not guaranteed. Luckily, Homey is here to help literally bridge that gap.

What is Homey?

Homey is the one-stop-shop for all your smart home needs. With this system, you can control all your devices from one central place, no matter where in the world you are. Homey also allows you to automate just about anything with its powerful Flow feature. Flows are simple to create and use and allow you to automate your entire home with ease.

This is all accomplished with a small spherical device that looks like it’s on wheels (though it’s not). It features a colored LED ring around its center to indicate power and activity. This unassuming little device is part of a system that is able to take all of the many connected products on various platforms and give you a single entry point for all of them.

How does Homey help?

If you have a connected home, you know that the disconnected platforms make things incredibly difficult. You’re incapable of combining a light bulb from one company with a speaker from another into a single routine – everything has to be in one system. Homey bridges the gap between these different platforms, allowing you to combine devices into a single scene.

Take, for example, wanting to trigger a Monster Smart Illuminessence Prism to change to green and an Amazon Echo to play a particular sound every time someone subscribes to your Twitch channel. For the Monster Prism, you would have to use the Razer Chroma platform and the Echo speaker would require an Alexa integration. But assuming there are connectors for both platforms and an app for Twitch, you would be able to create a single routine to trigger everything at once.

Expanding the Homey system

The Homey App Store also provides access to a wide range of apps that can be installed on your device, making it even more versatile and customizable. There are tons of apps at your disposal, and you can install those applications similarly to how you install apps on your smartphone. With over 750 apps available, finding the app to pair with the brand of your devices shouldn’t be a problem.

Not only that, but you can also find apps for other familiar services like Twitter and Discord. So, this experience can be broader than one would imagine initially. These applications pair with your devices for the purpose of teaching Homey how to control your device. Once your Homey understands, set up those Flow Cards for easy access to your preferences.

Summary

Whether you’re looking to control your lights, thermostat, or any other devices, Homey has you covered! To learn more about the product or get one for yourself, check out the company’s website.

Interview by Marlo Anderson of The Tech Ranch.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.


The applications of Chirp Microsystems’ ultrasonic range finder @ CES 2021



Chirp Microsystems ultrasonic range finderIf you are in the hardware design, robotics, automation, or home security industry, you are probably familiar with ultrasonic range finders. These are sensors that can offer a lot to a user. The best part is that many industries can make use of this technology.

Chirp Microsystems is right now the only manufacturer of ultrasonic range finders with MEMS technology. Here is everything you need to know about it.

The Uses Of A MEMS Ultrasonic Range Finder

Here is everything such a range finder can do:

  • Presence sensing
  • Position tracking
  • Range finding
  • Object detection
  • Object avoidance
  • Narrow and wide-field detection
  • And much more

However, the problem with these range finders has been that they are bulky. Chirp Microsystems has changed the game by introducing MEMS technology so that these range finders can become more compact and portable.

What Makes The MEMS Ultrasonic Range Finder By Chirp Microsystems Unique

Chirp Microsystems has introduced ultrasonic range finders within a compact package of 3.5 millimeters. Of course, this is not all. It also provides accurate range measurements regardless of the objects, colors, and sizes than previous technology did not detect.

Besides that, the range finder can work in all types of lighting conditions, heating conditions, and noise conditions. It also consumes incredibly low power because the technology is based around a silicon package. So, this ultrasonic range finder is set to change the game for many industries soon.

Final Words

If you are in automation, robotics, or any industry that requires a range finder, Chirp Microsystems should be your top choice. Their technology is one of the top ones out there that will provide you with much more flexibility. It is primarily a game-changer for all the hardware designers out there looking for more functionality and flexibility.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.


Energizer Connect is a perfect solution for your smarthome @ CES 2021



Energizer Connect affordable IoTSmart home devices are becoming nearly ubiquitous, but there can often be huge costs involved. The products themselves can be expensive, they can require additional devices, like hubs, or even subscription services. But, one brand that has been ubiquitous for decades itself has taken on the challenge of making connected devices that avoid all of these financial issues: Energizer Connect.

Energizer Connect has a wide variety of connected devices, ranging from indoor lightbulbs, outdoor light fixtures, switchable outlets, and security cameras. In addition, all of the devices are controllable through a single Energizer Connect app. You can set up schedules and smart scenes, make devices respond to one another, and more. This year, the company is expanding its line with some new products in its lineup, particularly in outdoor security.

First up is a smart 1080p HD indoor/outdoor battery camera. This camera features full HD video and is battery-powered, meaning you can install it in places where you might not be able to run a power cable. However, if you are able to power it, you can do that, as well, using the included weatherproof power cable. Inside is a long-lasting battery (this is Energizer after all), which is made to run longer because the camera is able to go into a low power mode when not being fully used. The camera attaches to the base using a strong magnet, so pulling it down to charge is easy.

Next up are the spotlight and dual floodlight offerings. These lights can be used for both home security and general daily usage and entertaining. The floodlight offers an integrated security camera with motion and people detection, as well as activity zones. It also features night vision for general night usage. It also has 2000 lumens of multi-white light available for all uses. There is also a smaller spotlight version, which offers 1000 lumens.

Some of the products are available now, while others are coming soon. To learn more about the product offerings or to make a purchase, head over to the Energizer Connect website.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.


Why monitoring indoor air quality with Airthings is essential @ CES 2021



Airthings indoor air qualityWith so many diseases spreading these days, monitoring indoor air quality has become essential. That is because most of us spend our time at home now, and the air quality can impact our health and comfort. That is where Airthings comes in.

Airthings is among the leading manufacturers of indoor air quality monitors that ensure you have a safe workplace and home. Here is everything you need to know about it.

What Contributes To Poor Indoor Air Quality?

Here are some of the most significant contributors to poor indoor air quality:

  • Poor ventilation
  • Building materials
  • Cleaning supplies
  • Poor HVAC system
  • Smoke
  • And much more

If your property has high humidity and poor ventilation, these pollutants will have a high negative impact.

Why Do You Need To Monitor Indoor Air Quality?

Long-term exposure to contaminants such as Radon, CO2, and much more can lead to many diseases. If you want to protect your family’s health, you need to make sure the air is clean indoors. Airthings has a wide range of products to help you with this aim.

As of now, Airthings has introduced seven to eight products to help you analyze and monitor air quality inside your home. They can detect contaminants such as Radon, CO2, VOCs, humidity, mold, and much more. The best part is that you can use their products for your commercial or residential property.

Final Words

That was your brief guide to understanding indoor air quality and why you need to maintain it. If you are looking for the optimal solution, you can also invest in Airthings products. They are an all-in-one solution as they ensure that all harmful substances in the air are detected and monitored.

Once they are detected, you can come up with practical steps to maintain your home and family’s well-being.

Interview by Scott Ertz of F5 Live: Refreshing Technology.

Sponsored by:
Get $5 to protect your credit card information online with Privacy.
Amazon Prime gives you more than just free shipping. Get free music, TV shows, movies, videogames and more.
The most flexible tools for podcasting. Get a 30 day free trial of storage and statistics.