iDevices Instant Switch review - CNET

This stick-up Bluetooth switch connects with other iDevices products to let you turn them on and off at the touch of a button from wherever you like.

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https://www.cnet.com/products/idevices-instant-switch/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Paragon Mat makes it fun to flip pancakes - CNET

The Paragon Mat is the latest addition to the Paragon Induction Cooking System, a countertop appliance that lets you set exact cooking temperatures when you pan fry or sous vide.

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Eagles: Hotel California - 40th Anniversary Deluxe Edition

Performance
Sound

Ah, the ’70s—the literal age of excess, as documented by the “everything, all the time” lifestyle credo personified by pop-music superstars like the Eagles and Fleetwood Mac. And yet, amidst all that glamour, glitz, and high drama also resided some damn fine music, too. Listen closely, and you’ll clue into a good bit of prescient social commentating by artists very much aware of the pitfalls of their experimentations, even while they basked in the afterglow.

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Is a TV Bundle Revolt Looming?

The inability to select individual channels and being forced to choose among a small selection of overblown bundles with channels you’ll never watch has long been a bugaboo for cable subscribers. And as the Age of Streaming TV hits stride, viewers are overwhelmed and becoming increasingly frustrated with the explosion of viewing options, according to a new study from Portsmouth, New Hampshire-based Hub Entertainment Research.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/tv-bundle-revolt-looming

Smart Home Skeptics Become Fans of Elan Home Automation System

It’s a familiar story among many homeowners: past experiences with expensive, complicated home automation systems have left a bad taste in their mouths. Consequently, when they move into a new home, they are reluctant to try the capabilities of newer, simpler, more reliable systems.

As Mark van den Broek, owner of Sarasota, Fla.-based SmartHouse Integration explains, ELAN is one of these simpler systems. So much simpler, in fact, that it turned the owners of this automated waterfront villa from skeptics into super fans.

Ease of Use Creates Automation Advocates

 “The ease of use, reliable operation and reasonable cost of the Elan system has converted our clients from home automation skeptics into some of our biggest home automation advocates,” van den Broek said. “With automated lighting and window shades that rise and fall with the sunrise and sunset, simple access to a multitude of video and audio sources on any TV or speaker, an advanced security system with water-approach email alerts and photos, this system is leaps and bounds above and beyond what they previously imagined home control could do, and it has changed their perspectives dramatically.”

Motorized window shades are programmed to extend for dinner each night, and retract for sunrise. As the sun sets, interior lights ramp up to predetermined levels and blue lights illuminate the freeform pool in the backyard. If it is too warm or cool inside, all it takes is a few taps on the ELAN mobile app, an ELAN HR200 remote, or a 7-inch wall-mounted ELAN gTP7 touchscreen, to change the temperature setting for any of the home’s five climate zones.

Video Shadows Owners Throughout the House

With three satellite dishes, three cable boxes and three Apple TVs centrally located and accessible on each of the home’s nine TVs, the homeowners can enjoy entertainment how they want, where they want, when they want. That extends to the home’s 20 audio zones with a surround system made up of invisible Niles and SpeakerCraft in-ceiling speakers, 53 lighting zones, and five climate zones.

Robust Security for On-the-Go Homeowners

As individuals with high-profile careers, one of their top needs was a robust, foolproof security system that would give them peace of mind. The homeowners’ security concerns led SmartHouse Integration to build a 35-zone security system with IP call stations, 12 IP cameras recording to a 4 terabyte hard drive, driveway gate controls, and even infrared sensors on the seawall that trigger outdoor lights to turn on and sends alerts to the both owner’s mobile devices in case of any boat or person approaching from the water.

“One of their favorite channels is the ‘Camera’ channel, where they can view any or all of the security camera feeds on any mobile device, PC or TV in the home, or anywhere in the world,” van den Broek continues. “Remote accessibility through the ELAN mobile app is a big deal too, giving them the same peace of mind even if they are halfway around the world. They have full control of the system, so they can check if any lights or TVs are on, view the camera feeds and make any adjustments they desire.”

 

Van den Broek configured the full-blown smart home system in a way that would leave a small visual footprint of its existence. Visible wiring was kept to a minimum and component were stowed in a central location inside an equipment rack outfitted with Panamax BlueBOLT surge protection and power backup. Each TV also has its own Panamax surge protector, ensuring a lifetime of carefree operation and protection from power surges or outages.

 

More High-Tech Treats in Store

With the initial phase of this SmartHouse Integration project completed, the owners are excited to expand the system to include additional features such as irrigation control and electronic door locks, and possibly add more zones and scheduled automation.

 

“Once a homeowner is comfortable and trusts ELAN to simplify their home lifestyle, the sky’s the limit,” van den Broek emphasizes. “Turning skeptics into advocates requires overwhelmingly positive experiences, and that’s why we are unabashed promoters of the ELAN control system. It just works.”

 

The post Smart Home Skeptics Become Fans of Elan Home Automation System appeared first on Electronic House.

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Sensor Lights Bulb Dusk to Dawn LED Light Bulbs Smart Lighting Lamp 7W E26/E27 Automatic On/Off, Indoor / Outdoor Yard Porch Patio Garage Garden - CNET

Sensor Lights Bulb Dusk to Dawn LED Light Bulbs Smart Lighting Lamp 7W E26/E27 Automatic On/Off, Indoor / Outdoor Yard Porch Patio Garage Garden

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Taylor Glass and Chrome Digital Bathroom Scale, 400 Lb. Capacity - CNET

Taylor Glass and Chrome Digital Bathroom Scale, 400 Lb. Capacity

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‘The Americans’ Season 5 Slated for Digital…and DVD

As the hit TV Series, The Americans, heads into its sixth season, Fox has announced that the fifth season of the KGB espionage thriller is being readied for release on digital and DVD. No word on Blu-ray yet.

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20 Alexa games to keep your kids busy - CNET

Whether you're trying to educate your kids through games or keep them busy while you cook dinner, here are 20 games you can play with Alexa.

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Hyperselect A19 9W - CNET

Hyperselect A19 9W

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Turn your Amazon Echo Dot into the ultimate nightstand accessory - CNET

Amazon's little smart speaker can find a home in just about any room, but it's best suited to your bedside. Here's why.

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Amazon acquires Ring in a bid to own your doorway - CNET

Amazon now owns the maker of the Ring Video Doorbell.

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DING WiFi Video Doorbell & 6-Month Cloud Storage - Smart Home Hub and WiFi Extender and 2 Pack Door/Window Sensors - All Inclusive Bundle - CNET

DING WiFi Video Doorbell & 6-Month Cloud Storage - Smart Home Hub and WiFi Extender and 2 Pack Door/Window Sensors - All Inclusive Bundle

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What is the One Smart Home Technology You Can’t Live Without?

If someone were to ask you to give up a technology for one day, which would you have the hardest time parting with? Your smartphone? Computer? Maybe the garage door opener? According to a data revealed by the Customer and Product Experience 260 Survey by iQor, the WiFi router ranks as the number one technology U.S. adults can’t live without.

Our dependency on a WiFi router shouldn’t be a surprise. It’s become the lifeblood of the smart home, connecting devices, enabling remote access to smart products, and feeding content from the Internet to TVs, music systems and more. It’s what makes every product, service, and application tick in the global Internet of Things (IoT) ecosystem. Given that nearly two-thirds (64 percent) of U.S. adults noted WiFi routers as their most beloved home tech, it’s apparent that consumers understand the importance of connected smart home technology to a modern lifestyle.

Smart Home Fear Factor

At the same time, consumers are concerned about the security of these devices. More than two-thirds (70 percent) of consumers are apprehensive about the lack of security from hackers who can breach their Internet-connected smart home devices, according to the survey. Moreover, the survey shows that more than half of U.S. adults (58 percent) fear lack of privacy from device manufacturers who have access to data, real-time conversations, voice patterns and search history.

Another fear noted by consumers of the survey is the “cascade effect” of a smart home ecosystem. Fifty-four percent fear that if one device  fails it will cause other connected devices in the home to fail.

Set Up Issues Ensue

In addition to the potential security risks of incorporating IoT devices into a home, consumers also struggle with setup and configuration of these devices. Survey respondents reported that in the past two years, 63 percent had set up issues and 48 percent had operation issues. Connecting the device to interact with other devices was difficult for nearly one third of consumers (31 percent).

Are We Too Dependent on Technology?

The increased value of the WiFi router speaks to the growing adoption of the smart home lifestyle and the desire for the convenience that the connected ecosystem provides, but consumers have reservations about IoT creating an unhealthy dependence on technology. More than half of U.S. adults (53 percent) are concerned that IoT and smart devices will lead to a heightened dependence on technology to conduct daily tasks.

The CPX 360 survey reports that more than 90 percent of consumer households today have a smartphone and that new connected technology is rapidly being adopted. Almost half of consumer households (42 percent) have a smart TV, nearly one in four have a health wearable device, like a Fitbit, and 16 percent have a voice controlled virtual assistant, like Alexa or Google home.

Where do you stand on these issues of privacy, security, and complicated setup? What is your must-have home technology device?

The post What is the One Smart Home Technology You Can’t Live Without? appeared first on Electronic House.

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Eatsmart Precision Plus Digital Bathroom Scale with Ultra Wide P - CNET

Eatsmart Precision Plus Digital Bathroom Scale with Ultra Wide P

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KarEye 4-Channel DVR Security Camera System for $73 + free shipping - CNET

KarEye 4-Channel DVR Security Camera System for $73 + free shipping

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Sussing Out the Churchills & 2 Hidden Sci-Fi Treasures

No, this not a list of Sci-Fi Movies about Winston Churchill, or Churchill movies with a Sci-Fi twist. I admit that these might make for a high concept movie or two. I'm not attempting to give Hollywood ideas here, but I'm open to a big payday for story credit. After all, Pride and Prejudice and Zombies, not to mention Abe Lincoln, Vampire Hunter were huge hits! We might also enjoy Churchill and His Time Machine, perhaps, or has that already been done—though I don't recall Bill and Ted picking up Churchill along with Lincoln, Socrates (pronounced So-crates for you Philistines) Napoleon, Freud, and others in their time-travelling phone booth.

But enough of that. The first two of my Hidden Treasures are serious films about Winston Churchill, and the other two are light science fiction...

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/churchill-and-sci-fi-hidden-treasures

Smart Bulb - CNET

Smart Bulb

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HUMU Augmented Audio Cushion is a Vibration Sensation

When I first saw Flexound's HUMU Augmented Audio Cushion at CES 2018 in early January, my initial reaction was "[deleted] gimmick!" But then I sat down for a demonstration followed by a long discussion with Mervi Heinaro, Flexound Systems' CEO. As you might guess, I don't normally spend much time talking with folks about gimmicky products or technologies. (I have enough crazy ideas running through my head already, thank you very much.) As it turned out, HUMU is the real deal-one of those magical products that I always hope to find at CES. A product that's simultaneously unusual, cool, compelling, and ready to ship. At least in this case, I got three out of four, because Heinaro said HUMU wasn't available in the US at that moment. She assured me, however, that Flexound could ship a sample to me by the end of January.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/humu-augmented-audio-cushion-vibration-sensation

McIntosh Product Flow Continues with SACD Transport

McIntosh is on a roll with new products. The latest is aimed at audiophiles who prefer their hi-res audio in physical form.

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D-Link HD Outdoor Wi-Fi Camera (DCS-2330L) - CNET

D-Link HD Outdoor Wi-Fi Camera (DCS-2330L)

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Why Is Tesla Killing AM Radio?

You just bought a Tesla. Congratulations! You, my friend, are driving the wave of the future. While everyone else is burning dinosaur droppings, you are propelled ever onward by the magical energy of the sun and the wind. Gaia, the primal Mother Earth Goddess, loves you.

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4-Ch. 4-Camera 900TVL DVR Security System for $60 + free shipping - CNET

4-Ch. 4-Camera 900TVL DVR Security System for $60 + free shipping

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kisslink Smart Body Scale - CNET

kisslink Smart Body Scale

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MR16 GU10 Premium - CNET

MR16 GU10 Premium

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Sound Leisure Sgt. Pepper's Limited-Edition Jukebox

Sound Leisure made headlines in 2016 when it introduced the ’50s-inspired Vinyl Rocket Jukebox, its first 45-rpm-record-playing jukebox in 20 years and, at the time, the only new vinyl-playing jukebox in the world. Last year, the U.K.-based company—one of two remaining jukebox manufacturers, the other being jukebox pioneer Rock-Ola—partnered with Apple Corps to build an “analog dream machine” that would memorialize the 50th anniversary of The Beatles’ 1967 masterpiece, Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band.

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Bluetooth Lighting System Controlled via Visual iPhone App

A picture is worth more than words … especially when controlling the smart devices in your home. Avion Innovative has applied this concept to a new lighting system. Instead of looking for words that describe how you want to control your lights, the app takes you to photos of the rooms of your home. From here you can choose a room, engage a lighting scene and adjust the intensity levels of lights in that room.

Called the PhotoTouch, this menu system created by Avion Innovative strives to make lighting control intuitive for every member of the family.

Going away? You can press the airplane photo to engage an “away” scene that turns off the lights and other devices. Ready for dinner? One press of an icon on the PhotoTouch menu will set the brightness perfectly for a casual dinner with the family. Just you and your spouse dining in? Access the menu to dim the lights to evoke a romantic scene.

Although the system and app are new, Avion designed it to be compatible with one of the oldest home control standards—X10. According to Avion, “the system was created for the experienced X10 user who wants an elegant upgrade using today’s technology.”  Setup involves plugging in a X10 lamp or appliance module and specifying the X10 House / Unit codeWith Avion BTX10, editing a series of commands we call Events can be done on the fly and the system updates in real time in seconds.

Each lighting scene can be scheduled to turn on, off, dim or trigger a relay. The latter enables the system to control other devices besides light switches. The Basic BTX10 app is free at the Apple App store and operates four zones. Optional six- and 12-zone upgrades are available.

Each iPhone or iPad that’s paired with the system can be used to program its own set of lights and appliances.

The Avion Bluetooth X10 controller, which comes in three different configurations, can be used as a tabletop controller or hidden.

Avion Basic can control up to 20 devices in 4 zones and launch as many as 8 scenes. It retails for $199.

Avion Plus bumps this up to 20 devices in 6 zones and 12 scenes. It retails for $219 plus $20 for software.

The largest of the three models, Avion Pro, can handle the control of as many as 32 devices in 12 zones and 25 scenes. It retails for $239 plus $40 for the software.

 

The post Bluetooth Lighting System Controlled via Visual iPhone App appeared first on Electronic House.

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10 Ways IFTTT Can Help Manage Your House

Samsung Cuts OLED Production (for iPhones, not TVs)

Did you buy an iPhone X, Apple’s new end-all, be-all phone? We didn’t think so.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/samsung-cuts-oled-production-iphones-not-tvs

Put a Google Assistant on your nightstand for $69.99 - CNET

Insignia's version of the Google Home makes a perfect addition to the bedroom -- especially at this price. Plus: an affordable Android Auto/CarPlay stereo and a super-cheap 4K action cam!

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Can New TVs Display a Constant Aspect Ratio?

Got a tech question for Sound & Vision? Email us at AskSandV@gmail.com

Q I’ve owned my Panasonic plasma TV for seven years but am now wondering about its life expectancy. Refresh rate, viewing angle, and, in particular, aspect ratio control are major concerns for my next TV. Can any of the latest TVs display a constant aspect ratio regardless of signal source? —Joe Nagy / via e-mail

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THX Announces New Spatial Audio Platform

THX today announced a new end-to-end “positional audio solution” said to be flexible enough to support emerging immersive audio formats, open standards, and legacy content across mobile, PC, and consumer electronics devices.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/thx-announces-new-spatial-audio-platform

Get ready for your first home or apartment with these tips - CNET

This guide will help you navigate the surprises that come with moving into your first home.

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Pure Clean Automatic Robot Vacuum Cleaner - CNET

Pure Clean Automatic Robot Vacuum Cleaner

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HyperSelect T8 LED Tube Light 8ft, 36W, Dual-End Powered, Clear - CNET

HyperSelect T8 LED Tube Light 8ft, 36W, Dual-End Powered, Clear

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Magic Hue WiFi Smart LED Light Bulb, Multicolored Dimmable Sunrise Wake Up WiFi Smart Light, No Hub Required, Compatible with Alexa & Google Home Assistant & IFTTT - CNET

Magic Hue WiFi Smart LED Light Bulb, Multicolored Dimmable Sunrise Wake Up WiFi Smart Light, No Hub Required, Compatible with Alexa & Google Home Assistant & IFTTT

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SkyGenius LED corn light bulb - CNET

SkyGenius LED corn light bulb

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RGB LED Wi-Fi Strip Lighting for Alexa & Google - CNET

RGB LED Wi-Fi Strip Lighting for Alexa & Google

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Mozzie Hoverboard - CNET

Mozzie Hoverboard

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Sengled Element Classic A19 - 60W Equivalent Smart LED Bulb (Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings and Wink) - CNET

Sengled Element Classic A19 - 60W Equivalent Smart LED Bulb (Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings and Wink)

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Ring's Spotlight Cam watches your yard, keeps the lights on video - CNET

The $199 Ring Spotlight Cam outdoor camera is easy to install and even easier to use.

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Smart lock buying guide - CNET

Looking to upgrade to a connected lock? Here's what you should know before you take the plunge.

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Lighthouse might just be the smartest smart home cam video - CNET

However, after a week of testing, this cam still has a lot to prove.

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Sengled Element Plus Smart Bulb Starter Kit- 60W Equivalent Tunable White (2700-6500K) Smart LED Bulbs, Zigbee, Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and SmartThings - CNET

Sengled Element Plus Smart Bulb Starter Kit- 60W Equivalent Tunable White (2700-6500K) Smart LED Bulbs, Zigbee, Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and SmartThings

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9 Google Home tips for music lovers - CNET

If you love your Google Home speaker about as much as you love music, here are nine tips you should know.

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Hyperikon T8 LED Light Tube 4ft, 18W, Glass, Single-End Powered, Clear - CNET

Hyperikon T8 LED Light Tube 4ft, 18W, Glass, Single-End Powered, Clear

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Apple HomePod: 6 things it can't do - CNET

It's true, there are some things Apple's smart speaker just can't manage yet.

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Your guide to buying the right smart lock video - CNET

Here's what you need to know to choose the right smart lock for you.

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https://www.cnet.com/videos/your-guide-to-buying-the-right-smart-lock/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Meet Tipron, the Robo-Projector

We’re now officially living in the future. That was our first thought when we heard about Tipron, the roving video projector. Roving, as in a small Star Wars-like robot that tools around the house on a perpetual entertainment mission.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/meet-tipron-robo-projector

Cars 3

Picture
Sound
Extras

In the original Cars, from 2006, hotshot racecar Lightning McQueen learned to be a gracious winner but a winner nonetheless. In Cars 2, Pixar learned that they could produce a less than sparkling sequel. Now, in Cars 3, the second Disney-Pixar property to produce a threequel (after Toy Story 3), McQueen is getting older, losing his edge, and suffering both losses and trash talk from newer, sleeker, faster racers. But he goes back into training, gets up to speed (so to speak), and is on the verge of motoring back to the top when….OK, you don’t expect spoilers, do you?

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The Hitman's Bodyguard

Picture
Sound
Extras

Being a bodyguard is a tough business, but Michael Bryce was at one time considered the best, earning him the distinction of being a triple-A executive protection agent. Unfortunately, if you lose a client, your life will take a turn for the worse, which is exactly what happened to Bryce when he wasn’t able to successfully protect a distinguished Japanese client. Two years have gone by, and in order to make a living, he’s resorted to protecting second-class clients—like lawyers.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/hitmans-bodyguard

Google Assistant will soon understand nearly two dozen more languages - CNET

The voice assistant will be available in more than 30 languages by year's end.

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https://www.cnet.com/news/google-assistant-will-soon-understand-nearly-two-dozen-more-languages/#ftag=CADa08b18a

9 Alexa tips for music lovers - CNET

If you love music and your Alexa speaker, here are nine things you should know.

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https://www.cnet.com/how-to/alexa-tips-for-music-lovers/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Astell & Kern KANN Music Player Review

Performance
Features
Ergonomics
Value

PRICE $999

AT A GLANCE
Plus
Normal or high-gain output
Full and microSD card slots
Native 384/32 PCM and DSD support
Minus
Bulky Not as pretty as some other A&K players
USB charger not included

THE VERDICT
Astell & Kern’s KANN is not only a subtly gorgeous-sounding performer loaded with features. It’s also a great value.

Astell & Kern’s KANN (along with the recently announced AK70 MK II) makes its debut at a time when the dedicated music player is looking more and more like the passenger pigeon. Apple has just killed the innovative, shape-shifting iPod nano and the puny iPod shuffle, leaving only the now unprecedentedly cheap iPod touch, basically an iPhone without the phone, at $199. With Apple uncharacteristically catering to the middle of the market (let’s not even contemplate the $20 nano knockoffs on Amazon), that leaves the high-resolution musicplayer carriage trade to companies like Astell & Kern, FiiO, and HiFiMan, as well as newly hi-res-conscious big brands like Sony, Onkyo, and Pioneer.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/astell-kern-kann-music-player-review

Flashback 2008: Toshiba Gives Up HD DVD

Ten years ago this week, a protracted format war between the Sony’s Blu-ray format and the Toshiba-backed HD DVD format, each vying to be the anointed successor to DVD, was averted when Toshiba announced that it would stop making HD DVD players, even though close to a million players had been sold and more than 400 HD DVD titles had been released in the U.S.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/flashback-2008-toshiba-gives-hd-dvd

Spotify Eying Hardware Launch?

Recent job postings by Spotify suggest that the company might be looking to make a move into the hardware space.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/spotify-eying-hardware-launch

Upcoming Live Music, Audio Events in NYC

If you live in or near New York City or happen to be in town, there two home audio/live music events happening in the coming days.

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What Are the Tech Specs for Blu-ray 3D?

Got a tech question for Sound & Vision? Email us at AskSandV@gmail.com

Q Are movies on Blu-ray 3D disc delivered in 1080p/24 resolution — the same as regular Blu-ray? If not, what is the resolution for Blu-ray 3D, and does the format use a different, lower-quality form of video compression? —Gilles Gontrand

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BoxLock Release Date, Price and Specs - CNET

You put the BoxLock on a container where delivery people stow your stuff. Only you and the deliverer can open the padlock.

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10 Ways Voice Control in the Home Will Change Your Life

Up to 30% OFF on products from Innotech - CNET

Up to 30% OFF on products from Innotech

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Lighthouse Interactive Assistant Release Date, Price and Specs - CNET

But after a week of testing, I'm not sure a good app and fancy tech is enough to recommend this expensive connected cam.

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Smart Bulb - CNET

Smart Bulb

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Sengled Element Classic A19 Starter Kit - 60W Equivalent Soft White (2700K) Smart LED Bulb (Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings and Wink) - CNET

Sengled Element Classic A19 Starter Kit - 60W Equivalent Soft White (2700K) Smart LED Bulb (Compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings and Wink)

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How to silence your microwave once and for all - CNET

No one likes the incessant beeping of a microwave. Here's how you can shut yours up for good.

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Pure White LED Ceiling Wall Surface Mount Microwave Motion Activated Smart LED Light Fixture Built with 180 LED 1200 Lms Multi-Functions for Residential Commercial and Industrial Lighting Applications - CNET

Pure White LED Ceiling Wall Surface Mount Microwave Motion Activated Smart LED Light Fixture Built with 180 LED 1200 Lms Multi-Functions for Residential Commercial and Industrial Lighting Applications

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Amazon Prime: 20 benefits every member gets - CNET

A full list of all the stuff that is (and isn't) included with your Prime subscription -- including new deals from Whole Foods.

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February 2018 New Gear Part 2

Bowers & Wilkins PX Noise-Canceling Wireless Headphones
The PX headphones, Bowers & Wilkins’s first adaptive noise-canceling model, are designed to optimize background noise isolation without distorting the music. They use aptX HD technology, which enables 24-bit resolution over Bluetooth, and provide three noise-canceling modes, each of which can be customized using a free app: “City” mixes in traffic noise so you don’t get run over, “Office” removes background noise without obliterating speech so you can hear your boss yelling at you, and “Flight” cancels jet engine noise.

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Peerless-AV Launches Updated Wireless HD System

Peerless-AV has introduced an updated version of its PeerAir Wireless HD Multimedia signal-transmission system.

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Qualcomm Enhances Wireless Technology for Earbuds

Qualcomm today announced enhancements to its TrueWireless Stereo technology for earphones, which eliminates wires from the media source as well as between the left and right earbuds.

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Sous vide machine maker Sansaire to shut down - CNET

The Seattle-based startup, which debuted its sous vide device on Kickstarter, will close over the next 12 months.

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Apple HomePod: Everything you can do with Siri - CNET

Just how much can Siri do on the HomePod? It's actually quite a bit.

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The Nest Cam IQ Indoor is now also a Google Assistant speaker - CNET

A free software update turns your Nest Cam IQ Indoor into a Google Assistant speaker.

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Ring's Spotlight Cam turns on LEDs when it detects activity - CNET

Ring's Spotlight Cam (wired version) is a plug-in HD live streaming camera with a built-in siren and automated LEDs.

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Guardzilla 360 Security Camera a Monster for Home Protection

Oh no, not another “Godzilla” remake. No, this time, it’s “Guardzilla” and I promise there will be no breathing fire, destruction of passenger trains or giant moths to battle. Indeed, I admit I was skeptical when I ordered a Guardzilla 360 security camera for the house. I mean the name is certainly catchy, but it was actually the feature set that drew my attention. How can a DIY wireless security camera offer two-way audio, geo-fencing capability, night-vision, and a 360-degree view for just $229.99?

Before I even removed it from the box, I found myself whistling, humming and singing a derivation of Blue Oyster Cult’s hit song “Godzilla” (aka “Guardzilla”) during the entire setup process. (I am still singing it.)

Packed with Advanced Features

But catchy name aside, as a DIY solution, Guardzilla 360 hits the mark.  The HD Wi-Fi security camera enable customers to monitor their homes inside and out from their smartphone via a full 360-degree live HD viewing camera with motion detection capabilities, along with night vision, a full security suite and full duplex audio communication.

Guardzilla 360 provides a live 360-degree field of view, 360-degree night vision, and 360-degree motion detection with instant phone alerts.  The camera also features a speaker and microphone system that enables full-duplex, two-way conversing; and three programmable call buttons for one-touch push notifications to smartphones. The Guardzilla 360 also offers a full security suite, including a 100dB siren, PIR motion sensors and geo-fencing, which automatically arms or disarms the system when the user’s smartphone is detected exiting or entering the GPS-driven perimeter.

Installation Ease–Even in an Old House

Living in an old converted barn built in 1875, I am reticent to drill holes in the walls and floors, which are all pine, some of which are original hand-hewn wood. At the same time, my wife is the “Amazon Queen” in that it seems we have Amazon package deliveries daily. Knowing there would be in influx of boxes being stacked on the porch for the holidays, I ordered a Guardzilla 360. I positioned the camera on a wide sill below a long window in the mudroom/kitchen area. From this position, the camera can view into our living room, kitchen, mudroom and most importantly, out the window onto the porch. If any “porch pirates” should appear, Guardzilla would be ready.

Setup could not be simpler, especially since the app itself is loaded with nine separate “Help Videos” that step you through the entire process.  I just plugged it into a nearby outlet and downloaded the companion app. Via the Settings menu I can link the camera to Nest, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant and create IFTTT commands if necessary.  The menu also allows me to change the image quality, add contacts to the call list, set the arming for delayed activation, and adjust the motion detection and audio detection sensitivity levels.

Automatic Notifications; Pro Monitoring Optional

The unit is tied to my wife’s cellphone for geo-fencing, but that also meant the camera was armed when she wasn’t away. The first time I came home from work and she was not there, the Guardzilla 360 let out a piercing siren that would have evacuated Tokyo.  Pointer: remember to link the camera to everyone’s cellphone in the home.

With any DIY camera solution that is not monitored, the more you use the camera, the better. We routinely check the camera as part of our daily app usage. I have even gotten into the routine of pulling up the camera and talking to the kids when I get ready to leave for work. There is an argument that a DIY camera like this is more of a gadget than real security, so to quell that line of thought Guardzilla also offers the option for professional monitoring. The company offers a $9.99 per month central station monitoring with no fees.

What Would I Change?

There are a few things I would change about Guardzilla. First, I would make the power cord longer. I would rather have to bundle extra cable versus stretch a too-short power cord to the optimum camera position.

Second, the night vision camera certain works well, but the IR reflection off the glass (remember I have it positioned by the window to view the porch) makes the camera image looking outside unusable at night, unless we leave the porch light on. The night vision feature can be shut off, but then the camera would not be able to pick up any usage images inside the home at night.

Third, the two-way audio works well for listening, but the speaker capabilities seem weak. When I use the app, I can certainly see and hear what’s going on, but when I tried to communicate to my daughters who were literally standing right next to the camera, there is a bit of latency that makes conversations tough. It could be my home network. My wife similarly attempted to contact me with a voice via the camera one day… I never heard a word. (Was that intentional on my part?)

Guardzilla 360 features include:

• Live 360-degree HD video monitoring
• 360-degree night vision
• 360-degree motion detection
• Optional 100dB siren alert
• Hub-less design
• Instant notifications
• Three programmable call buttons for push notifications to family, friends and emergency contacts
• Audio echo cancellation using full duplex, 2-way audio capability integrates echo cancellation and noise reduction hardware and software
• Geo-fencing that leverages smartphone GPS technology to automatically arm or disarm the system when the user’s smartphone exits or enters the geo-fence perimeter.
• UI de-warping using a proprietary algorithm that enables re-rendering of raw video content via 3D mapping into panoramic viewable video.
• UI gravity effect via custom code that creates downward drift gravity to reset previous 360-degree searches to the level, panoramic mode most users desire.
• Video compression that enables delivery of live, HD streaming 360-degree video via typical IP broadband bandwidth.
• Motion event video capture and storage

Guardzilla 360 sells for $229.99 online and in-store from retailers across the country including Walmart, Target, Staples, and Best Buy. 

So how good is Guardzilla? I overheard my wife telling a friend that we need a second one.

 

The post Guardzilla 360 Security Camera a Monster for Home Protection appeared first on Electronic House.

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Give your Amazon Echo or Dot a makeover for 30 percent off - CNET

If Alexa isn't fitting well with your decor, wrap her in a lovely sleeve of Toast. Plus: return of the $10 label-maker!

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Nancy Wilson Gets to the Aural Heart of Roadcase Royale’s ‘First Things First’

All photography: Jeremy Danger (2017).

Nancy Wilson doesn’t like being idle. The noted Northwest-bred guitarist/vocalist was up for tackling new challenges while Heart, the band she and her sister Ann Wilson made famous, decided to take an extended break — and she found exactly what she was looking for with her new six-piece collective, Roadcase Royale.

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Save on Sylvania Filament LED Light Bulb, 60W Equivalent, A19 E26, Clear Glass Vintage Edison Style, Soft White 2700K, Dimmable and more - CNET

Save on Sylvania Filament LED Light Bulb, 60W Equivalent, A19 E26, Clear Glass Vintage Edison Style, Soft White 2700K, Dimmable and more

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Eufy Smart LED Bulb with Alexa Voice Control-White&Color - CNET

Eufy Smart LED Bulb with Alexa Voice Control-White&Color

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Cambridge Audio to Open U.S. Store, Partner with Music School

In a move usually associated with large corporate entities with names like Sony or Bose, England's Cambridge Audio has announced that it will open its first U.S. retail store in Chicago later this year.

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Microsoft Cortana Now Speaks IFTTT

Cortana, the virtual assistant by Microsoft, may have come out of the gate slower than its competitors Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant, but it’s gathering traction thanks to its recent compatibility with IFTTT and integration friendlinesss with several leading manufacturers of smart home devices.

The IFTTT platform enables consumers to utilize and create “recipes” that enable the Microsoft Cortana voice assistant to trigger multiple actions via simple voice commands. IFTTT is a free programming platform and Applets are widely available on the IFTTT website for consumers to use to connect apps, services, and smart products together. IFTTT derives its name from the conditional logic, “If This, Then That.”

Microsoft offers the following examples of how Cortana and Applets on IFTTT (or Applets you create yourself) can work together:

• If you are watching a movie at home, you can say “Hey Cortana, movie time,” and she will turn down your Philips Hue lights, signal your Harmony remote to turn on the TV, and adjust your Nest thermostat to a comfortable movie-watching temperature.
• You could use IFTTT and Cortana to tackle several tasks at once; for instance, adding items to a shopping list on Trello, posting a tweet, opening motorized window shades, extending the tumble cycle on a dryer, and logging your weight into a fitness tracker.

You can visit the Cortana Channel on the IFTTT website to see what kinds of Applets are currently available.

Cortana Compatibility with Honeywell Products and More

Enhancing Cortana’s reach even further, Microsoft has also announced that voice commands issued through a Cortana smart speaker (like Harman Kardon’s Invoke), are now able control Honeywell Lyric and Honeywell Total Connect Comfort thermostats. Users can also control the devices using the assistant on Windows 10, iPhone, and Android devices.

The Cortana digital assistant was already compatible with devices through Samsung SmartThings, Nest, Philips Hue, Wink and Insteon. Other devices now supported by Cortana include LIFX’s WiFi connected light bulbs, TP-Link’s Kasa WiFi slim smart plugs and Geeni’s products, including its smart surge protector.

The post Microsoft Cortana Now Speaks IFTTT appeared first on Electronic House.

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These smart displays show you the answers to your questions - CNET

Just like smart speakers, you can command these devices with your voice. Even better, they can use their screens to help illustrate their replies.

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Sengled Element Classic A19 Smart Home LED Starter Kit, Compatib - CNET

Sengled Element Classic A19 Smart Home LED Starter Kit, Compatib

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Ultra HD: More Than Just Resolution

15 Minutes with UHD Alliance President Mike Fidler

The Ultra HD Alliance is on a mission to spread the good word of Ultra HD, which as any self-respecting home theater enthusiast will tell you is more than just a resolution story. Yes, having four times as many pixels as standard HD is a definite boon to image quality, but high dynamic range (HDR), wide color gamut, and other recent advances in TV picture quality are even more compelling, nudging us ever closer to images that mirror the real world. Last summer the Alliance recruited industry veteran Mike Fidler as its first full-time president. We recently caught up with Fidler, who has served in key executive roles at Sony and Pioneer, to get an update on the Alliance and its efforts to promote the benefits of what it calls a “premium audio/video experience.”

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The new Wyze Cam v2 is still only $20 - CNET

The best cheap Wi-Fi camera just got even better -- without a price increase. Plus: See "Black Panther" (or any other movie) for just $5.

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How to Make Your Own LPs

If you're like me, you wake up every morning from a wonderful dream where you own a LP replication plant. In your factory, plastic goes in, and plastic goes out. Except that the outgoing plastic has magical shapes pressed into it. Now my dream, and yours, can come true.

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13W 5/6inch Dimmable LED Retrofit Recessed Lighting Fixture (=75W), Energy Star, UL, LED Ceiling Light - 965 Lumens Recessed LED Downlight - CNET

13W 5/6inch Dimmable LED Retrofit Recessed Lighting Fixture (=75W), Energy Star, UL, LED Ceiling Light - 965 Lumens Recessed LED Downlight

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Focal Expands In-Wall/Ceiling Speaker Line

Focal has introduced a new seven-model series of entry-level in-wall/ceiling speaker series at prices ranging from $149 to $449, and announced plans to add three models to its mid-priced 300 Series. The 100 Series is available now and the 300 Series is due out in May.

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Eufy BodySense Smart Scale with Bluetooth - CNET

Eufy BodySense Smart Scale with Bluetooth

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Acer: ‘World’s Smallest 3000 Lumens Laser 4K Projector’ Now Available in U.S.

Acer America has announced U.S. availability of “the world’s smallest 4K Ultra HD (UHD) 3000 lumens laser projector,” designed to deliver “laser-quality visuals in a wide range of environments,” including home theater.

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Soul X-Shock True Wireless Earphones for Endurance Junkies

Cable cutters are all the rage these days; even headphones have become completely and totally free from cables. The new X-Shock earphones from Soul Electronics are absolutely wireless, even for charging. For marathon listening sessions, the X-Shock has up to 60 hours of charging capabilities between the earphone and portable charging box.

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Facebook Fiona: New Competition for Amazon Echo, Apple HomePod, and Google Home

If you haven’t already invested in one of the many smart home speakers on the market, this summer you’ll have even more options, as Facebook plans to unveil its own version of voice-enabled smart home speakers, called Fiona and Aloha. Unlike most of the smart home speakers available today, like Amazon Echo, Google Home, and Apple HomePod, Fiona and Aloha will each feature a built-in 15-inch touchscreen. As an extra perk, Aloha will also boast facial recognition technology, which will allow users to access Facebook (and likely launch other tasks) when the smart speaker’s camera lens recognizes them.

Want to learn more about voice control in the home? Go here. 

Both Facebook smart speaker models will also access and play music via voice commands, thanks to Facebook’s licensing contracts with Sony and Universal Music.

Fiona and Aloha will join the already saturated smart home speaker market sometime in July. According to A recent study from Juniper Research, smart speakers such as Amazon Echo, Google Home, and the Sonos One will be installed in over 70 million U.S. households by 2022, reaching 55% of all homes. Facebook’s Fiona and Aloha may help fuel consumer adoption even more.

With a growing number of smart home speakers, manufacturers will continue to look for ways to differentiate themselves. For example, Harman Kardon leverages its strong background in audio reproduction with the development of a smart speaker, Invoke, that delivers an exceptional music listening experience. Apple, meanwhile, with its well-established ecosystem of smart home products, positions its HomePod smart speaker as a home control interface.

Related: Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg Bullish on Automated Homes

 

Here is a look at some of the top smart speaker offerings:

Apple Siri (HomePod): This smart speaker uses Siri as its voice control platform, which speaks exclusively to Apple’s own ecosystem of HomeKit-enabled smart home products.

 

Amazon Alexa: Boasting various form factors and features (the Echo Show and Echo Spot, for instance, incorporate built in screen for video calls and displaying other information), the selection of Amazon listening devices gives consumers the ability to integrate a variety of products into the home—FireTV in the media room, Echo Show in the kitchen, and Dots in the bedrooms, for example.

Amazon designed Alexa to be a very “open” solution, meaning anyone can use Alexa Skills to integrate the technology into a product. This has opened the floodgates for the development of numerous Alexa-compatible products, including those from some of the biggest names in the smart home business: Nest, Philips Hue, Samsung SmartThings, and others.

 

Google Assistant: This voice assistant platform followed on the footsteps of Amazon Alexa. Its selection of smart speaker is continually growing, putting Google in close competition with Amazon. Recently, Google announced a donut-shape voice-enabled speaker called the Mini, and a larger, more musically inclined voice-enabled speaker called the Max.

The Google Home Mini wins the beauty prize, with its smooth, curved exterior encased in fabric of three different colors: Chalk, Charcoal and Coral. But if high-fidelity is important, that’s the forte of the Google Home Max. Packed inside this stereo speaker are two 4.5-inch woofers and a couple of tweeters. Google says it plays loud—20 times more powerful than the original Google Home.

According to Google, you can control more than 1,000 smart products by using Google Home devices, and its products are but it’s noted as being highly reliable and accurate at interpreting voice commands.

Sonos: Everyone loves Sonos for its ability to stream music throughout the house. Now there’s another reason to swoon over this super-easy, super versatile, whole-house wireless music system: its ability to function as a voice-enabled smart speaker. The company recently announced Sonos One, the company’s first wireless speaker with voice control built-in.

Microsoft Cortana:  Just when you thought Amazon and Google had saturated the smart speaker market with their ever-expanding portfolios of voice assistant gadgets, along comes Harman Kardon with yet another option. As a relative late bloomer in the smart speaker market, Harman Kardon has chosen the Microsoft Cortana voice assistant as its platform, embedding it in its Invoke speaker.

The timing, however, seems perfect, as Microsoft only recently announced its “Connected Home” section available on through the Cortana Notebook menu on some Windows 10 PCs. Connected Home lets you use your Windows 10 PC to relay voice commands to smart home devices from Wink, Insteon, Nest, SmartThings and Philips (Hue).

The post Facebook Fiona: New Competition for Amazon Echo, Apple HomePod, and Google Home appeared first on Electronic House.

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HoooWooo Bluetooth Body Fat Bathroom Scale with Tempered Glass Platform, 9 Body Measurement - CNET

HoooWooo Bluetooth Body Fat Bathroom Scale with Tempered Glass Platform, 9 Body Measurement

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Smart LED RGB Bluetooth Walkway Lighting - CNET

Smart LED RGB Bluetooth Walkway Lighting

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MagicLight WiFi Smart Light Bulb - Sunrise Dimmable Multicolored LED Household Light Bulb - No Hub Required - Compatible with Alexa & Google Home Assistant - CNET

MagicLight WiFi Smart Light Bulb - Sunrise Dimmable Multicolored LED Household Light Bulb - No Hub Required - Compatible with Alexa & Google Home Assistant

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Reolink Argus 100% Wire-Free 1080p HD Outdoor Wireless Battery-Powered Security Camera for Home with Two Way Audio Micro SD Card Slot & Night Vision - CNET

Reolink Argus 100% Wire-Free 1080p HD Outdoor Wireless Battery-Powered Security Camera for Home with Two Way Audio Micro SD Card Slot & Night Vision

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Fluxtronics LED GU10 (MR16) Track Light Bulb, Dimmable, ENERGY STAR, Spot Light Bulb, UL-Listed, 5 Years Warranty - CNET

Fluxtronics LED GU10 (MR16) Track Light Bulb, Dimmable, ENERGY STAR, Spot Light Bulb, UL-Listed, 5 Years Warranty

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Up to 30% OFF on PC products from HIRALIY - CNET

Up to 30% OFF on PC products from HIRALIY

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7 ways to use Alexa around the office - CNET

You know how to use Alexa at home, but what about work? Here are 7 ways to put Alexa to work… at work.

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Apple HomePod: Every tip and trick you need to know - CNET

Curious about a specific HomePod feature? Or what about those nasty rings on wood surfaces? Read this.

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Taylor 7411 Stainless Steel Digital Bathroom Scale - CNET

Taylor 7411 Stainless Steel Digital Bathroom Scale

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Sengled Element Plus A19 Smart Bulb, 2700K - 6500K Color Temperature, Compatible with SmartThings, Wink and Echo Plus, Requires Hub for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant - CNET

Sengled Element Plus A19 Smart Bulb, 2700K - 6500K Color Temperature, Compatible with SmartThings, Wink and Echo Plus, Requires Hub for Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant

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Speco Technologies 2MP Wireless Camera for $50 + free shipping - CNET

Speco Technologies 2MP Wireless Camera for $50 + free shipping

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Hyperikon T8 LED Light Tube 4ft, 18W, Dual-End Powered, Clear - CNET

Hyperikon T8 LED Light Tube 4ft, 18W, Dual-End Powered, Clear

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TP-Link Smart LED Bulb with Color Changing Hue, Wi-Fi enabled, BR30, 80W Equivalent, Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant (LB230) - CNET

TP-Link Smart LED Bulb with Color Changing Hue, Wi-Fi enabled, BR30, 80W Equivalent, Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant (LB230)

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BRTLX 12W LED Light Bulb 3000K Warm White E26 Base 960lm 220° Not Dimmable 4 Pack - CNET

BRTLX 12W LED Light Bulb 3000K Warm White E26 Base 960lm 220° Not Dimmable 4 Pack

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Techko Kobot All-Purpose Robotic Vacuum - CNET

Techko Kobot All-Purpose Robotic Vacuum

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CNET's LED Buying Guide makes sense of the light bulb aisle video - CNET

Need a light, but you're overwhelmed by all of the options? Our handy buying guide has your back -- here are some pointers to get you started.

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Eufy Smart LED Bulb with Alexa Voice Control-White?2-pack? - CNET

Eufy Smart LED Bulb with Alexa Voice Control-White?2-pack?

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Up to 30% OFF on HOME IMPROVEMENT products from SHINE HAI - CNET

Up to 30% OFF on HOME IMPROVEMENT products from SHINE HAI

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Up to 43% OFF on HOME IMPROVEMENT products from DLPIN sold by breeze inc - CNET

Up to 43% OFF on HOME IMPROVEMENT products from DLPIN sold by breeze inc

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/up-to-43-off-on-home-improvement-products-from-dlpin-sold-by-breeze-inc-f3786933/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Reolink Argus 100% Wire-Free 1080p HD Outdoor Wireless Battery-Powered Security Camera for Home with Two Way Audio Micro SD Card Slot & Night Vision - CNET

Reolink Argus 100% Wire-Free 1080p HD Outdoor Wireless Battery-Powered Security Camera for Home with Two Way Audio Micro SD Card Slot & Night Vision

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Microsoft, Sony Announce Gaming Deals

Gaming just got a little cheaper. At least for the next week or two...

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Hyperikon T8/T10/T12 LED 4FT Light Tube - CNET

Hyperikon T8/T10/T12 LED 4FT Light Tube

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https://www.cnet.com/deals/hyperikon-t8t10t12-led-4ft-light-tube-e978321d/#ftag=CADa08b18a

Warm Bodies

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This is the classic story of boy meets girl, boy falls for girl, girl wakes up one day and realizes she loves boy and can’t live without him. Will daddy approve? Not likely since the boy comes from the group that daddy is trying to wipe off the face of the Earth, so the young couple must overcome long odds to live happily ever after. Although there’s a twist here that you don’t often see—the boy is a zombie who can’t even remember his name other than it begins with an R.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/warm-bodies

Batman and Harley Quinn

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Sometimes even Batman can’t go it alone. When Poison Ivy teams with an evil alien plant-man for a scheme that could doom every human being on the planet, he first turns to Nightwing (sidekick Robin, now all grown up), but even that’s not enough. Their best hope of stopping these baddies in time is to team with Ivy’s lone confidante, Harley Quinn.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/batman-and-harley-quinn

Sennheiser Ambeo Smart Headset

You’ve no doubt heard of smart speakers—and you may even own one—but have you heard of smart headphones? It’s not quite a thing just yet, but Sennheiser—the family-owned German company that has been making microphones since 1946 and invented the first on-ear, open-air headphones (the iconic HD414) in 1968—has developed an intriguing product that draws on its expertise in both areas. The Ambeo Smart Headset does something no other headphones we know of can do: It captures 3D audio for videos you shoot on your phone.

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https://www.soundandvision.com/content/sennheiser-ambeo-smart-headset