Smart Home Insider

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TECHNOLOGY
UPDATED WEEKLY

Learn about the latest smart home news on Smart Home Insider! Host Andrew O'Hara discusses the weekly news, exclusive interviews, in-depth how-to's, smart home automations, integrating Siri Shortcuts, and reviews his recent smart home projects with an added focus on Apple Home & Matter.

14 HR AGO · VIDEO

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 homeowners to be proactive rather than reactive.The role of AI and sensor fusion, like Wi-Fi and activity zone detection, in predicting threats before they happen.Why a focus on privacy, seamless integration, and ease of use is transforming the DIY security market.The strategic move into open protocols to create a more connected, interoperable smart home landscape.What’s next for ADT: The possibility of introducing scene automation, smart home triggers, and voice command support like Siri shortcuts to truly integrate security with daily life.Jimmy Lin is VP of Product Management at ADT, steering innovations that bridge the gap between trusted home security and intelligent automation. With extensive experience in consumer electronics and AI-powered products—from GoPro cameras to AR glasses—Jimmy brings a keen eye for transforming classic brands into future-ready powerhouses. This episode is packed with actionable insights and future trends that will shape your smart home strategy. Perfect for tech lovers, security pros, and anyone eager to stay ahead of the curve. Don't miss out—hit play now and discover how ADT is redefining what home security can be. Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at: @andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by: Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/homekit!Copilot Money: Limited-time: Get two months free when you sign up at copilot.money/smarthome and use coupon code SMARTHOME!Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Govee TV Backlight 3Govee G25 Filament BulbBose Lifestyle LineupBlu by ADTThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

1hr 4min
18 MAY · VIDEO

How Samsung SmartThings Wants to Empower All Smart Home Users by Embracing Matter

Unlock the future of smart homes with insights from industry expert Daniel Moneta, as he shares the game-changing role of Matter, Samsung SmartThings, and the evolving smart device universe. This episode reveals how major players are shaping an interconnected, seamless smart home experience—without the proprietary silos that frustrate consumers. Discover the behind-the-scenes strategies Samsung uses to rapidly support and integrate Matter and Thread into their ecosystem—highlighting how appliances like Samsung fridges and washers are transforming connectivity standards. Daniel breaks down how open standards like Matter are shifting from optional to essential, with real-world examples such as IKEA’s groundbreaking affordable smart devices gaining rapid market traction despite early connectivity hiccups. You'll explore key topics including: How Samsung’s smart TVs and Family Hub fridges become unexpected smart displays, eliminating the need for dedicated screens.The impact of new security vulnerabilities in baby cameras, and why standardized protocols matter for your peace of mind.The upcoming wave of smart sensors and fall detection tech that are making elder care smarter, more reliable, and less invasive.The role of open ecosystems in overcoming retailer resistance—why retail giants like Home Depot are slow to adopt Matter, and what that means for consumers.How AI is subtly transforming your smart home—from recommendations in streaming apps to smarter automation, without drowning in niche assistants.Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at: @andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by: Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/homekit!NordStellar: Get an exclusive offer: Unlock your 10% discount on NordStellar with the coupon code: SMARTHOMEINSIDER10 - Just mention it to NordStellar!Quo: Try QUO for free PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://quo.com/HOMEKIT!Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Smart baby cam vulnerabilityNetflix TV AI AssistantGoogle Smart Display LeaksEufy S2 Vacuum launchesThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

1hr 6min
11 MAY · VIDEO

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 interoperabilityHomebridge v2.0: New features, Matter support, and use casesLatest on smart lighting: Govee Floor Lamp 3, Nanoleaf, and Hue optionsNew sensors and device updates: Aqara FP400 leak detector and W200 thermostat enhancementsReview and comparison of high-end smart speakers: Denon Home vs. Apple HomePodSwitchBot circulating fan: Connectivity, Matter support, and real-world application challengesSend me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at: @andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by: CleanMyMac: Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code SMARTHOME for 20% off at https://clnmy.com/SMARTHOME.Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/homekitSmart Home Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Shane Whatley YouTubeCSA Unify 2026Homebridge 2.0Aqara W200 ThermostatGovee Floor Lamp 3Nanoleaf Floor LampSwitchBot Circulating Standing FanThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

53 min
4 MAY

Future of the Smart Home at Dreame Next -- AI & Robotic Arms Aplenty

Discover the latest innovations and insights from the Dreame Next event in San Francisco, where new smart home products, robotic ideas, and industry trends took center stage. Join us as we explore groundbreaking updates, the presence of AI, and what’s coming next for smart home automation. Featuring an exclusive interview with Shu Yang, GM of Dreame North America. In this episode: Andrew’s experience at Dreame Next and key highlights of the eventDetailed review of the new Philips Hue Bridge Pro Spatial Aware featureOverview of Sonoff's NS Panel Pro Gen 2 and its smart home potentialDeep dive into Dreamy's ambitious, futuristic product lineup including refrigerators and robotic vacuumsAnalysis of Dreame's robot arms, AI integration, and upcoming smart home gadgetsInsights into new trends like dual-zone air conditioners and activity-specific appliancesReal talk about product viability, vaporware, and what might actually hit the marketThe importance of innovation combined with realistic expectations in smart home techSend me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at: @andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by: Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/homekit!NordStellar: Get an exclusive offer: Unlock your 10% discount on NordStellar with the coupon code: SMARTHOMEINSIDER10 - Just mention it to NordStellar!One Skin: Get 15% off OneSkin with the code HOMEKIT at https://www.oneskin.co/homekit!Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Philips Hue Bridge ProSonoff NSPanel Pro Gen 2Dreame TechThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

1hr 1min
27 APR

Smart Kitchen Gear Roundup -- What's Worth It & What's Not

Explore the latest in smart kitchen technology, from Matter-enabled appliances to AI-powered ovens. Discover how voice-controlled ovens, energy-efficient dishwashers, and smart faucets can transform your cooking experience. Join us as we break down the top innovations and what they mean for your home. Perfect for tech enthusiasts and homeowners looking to upgrade their kitchen. Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at: @andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by: Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/homekitGusto: Try Gusto today at https://gusto.com/homekit, and get three months free when you run your first payrollCopilot Money: Limited-time: Get two months free when you sign up at copilot.money/smarthome and use coupon code SMARTHOME!Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Moen Smart FaucetGovee Nugget Ice Maker ProJoule Pro by BrevilleBrava OvenTyphur OvenJoule Sous Vide CookerAnova Sous Vide CookerNespresso Vertuo Creatista by BrevilleXbloom StudioGE Cync Under Cabinet LightsKitchenAid Artisan Plus MixerThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

1hr 10min
20 APR

Testing Aqara P100 Multi-Sensor, Apple TV Audio Issues, & TRMNL E-ink Display

Join Andrew on Smart Home Insider as he explores the innovative Acara P100 Multi Sensor. Discover how this versatile device can transform your home with smart automation, from pet care to security. Learn about its dual-protocol capabilities, creative use cases, and seamless integration with platforms like Apple HomeKit. Perfect for tech enthusiasts and DIY homeowners, this episode offers actionable insights to elevate your smart home experience. Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at: @andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by: Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/homekitOneSkin: Get 15% off OneSkin with the code HOMEKIT at https://www.oneskin.co/homekit Quo: Try QUO for free, PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to https://quo.com/HOMEKITSmart Home Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show New Fire Stick HD launchesVizio TVs to require Walmart accountWyze Setup RecallTRMNL E-ink DisplayGovee LED Lightwall Govee Spotlight LiteBirdfy Metal 2 4K Bird feederEcovacs X12 OmniCycleAqara P100 Multi-SensorThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

1hr 6min
13 APR

Aqara W200 Review, HomeMapper, & Merino Energy Launches First Apple Home Heat Pump

Discover the latest advancements in smart home technology, featuring insights into Matter support, room-specific heating solutions, and the future of connected devices — all with expert commentary from industry insiders. This week, Mary-Ann Rau joins, CEO of Merino Energy who has launched the very first heat pump to support Apple Home. Key Topics: The significance of Philips' new TV acting as a Matter endpoint and what that means for smart home control.The rise of room-specific heat pumps, exemplified by Merino Energy's innovative, compact, and affordable heat pump with Apple Home integration.The debate over native Apple Home support versus Matter standards in smart devices, and the importance of ecosystem interoperability.Practical showcases of new smart home tools, such as Home Mapper app for device analysis and firmware insights.The strategic approach of companies like Acara, Reolink, and Merino in supporting open standards and proprietary integrations.Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at: @andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by: CleanMyMac: Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code SMARTHOME for 20% off at https://clnmy.com/SMARTHOME.Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Philips Amblight TVCyberModStudio TV revealHomeMapper Testflight beta signupAqara W200 written reviewAqara W200 videoHeat pump weekMerino Energy on launching a heat pumpPreorder Merino Heat Pump MonoThose interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

56 min
6 APR

Matter 1.5.1 Arrives with More Changes for Cameras

In this episode of Smart Home Insider, host Andrew O'Hara covers recent updates in smart home technology, the latest in Matter firmware, innovative DIY hacks, and new product launches including IKEA’s Matter-enabled lighting and Scosche’s Find It Charge tracker. Despite solo hosting, Andrew keeps listeners informed with detailed insights into the evolving smart home landscape. Main Topics Covered: Overview of Matter 1.5.1 firmware update focusing on camera support, streaming, and media support enhancementDeep dive into new features for cameras, video quality, and AI analysis streams in Matter 1.5.1Creative DIY projects: transforming contact sensors into smart hooks with 3D printed enclosuresIntroduction to the Scosche Found It Charge — a car charger with AirTag-like tracking built-inIKEA’s new Matter-enabled donut and hanging pendant lights showcased at CESUpdates on Apple TV remote app alternatives and integration improvements for smart home devicesHome Assistant 2026.4 update: IR device support, cross-domain triggers, and Matter lock managementProgress in smart bedroom automation projects using sensors, projectors, and automated lightingInsights on the future of rechargeable tracking devices and battery tech compatibility with Apple’s MFI programSend me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at: @andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me hereSponsored by: Shopify: Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/homekitSmart Home Insider YouTube Channel Subscribe to the Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel and watch our episodes every week! Click here to subscribe.Links from the show Matter 1.5.1 announcedITSYTV Apple TV RemoteSosche FoundIt car charger with Find MySmart hook DIYOto Lawn play mode

50 min

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Get the latest iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple news every Friday. Tune in to this weekly podcast for in-depth coverage, product reviews, and analysis of all news surrounding Apple. Since 1997 AppleInsider has been a premier source of Apple news, leaks, and rumors. Hosted by William Gallagher and Wesley Hilliard.

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TECHNOLOGY