Ben PattersonSenior Writer, TechHive
Ben has been writing about technology and consumer electronics for more than 20 years. A PCWorld contributor since 2014, Ben joined TechHive in 2019, where he covers smart speakers, soundbars, and other smart and home-theater devices.
Ikea unwraps a $10 decorative smart filament bulb
The price is nice, but the new E26 filament bulb requires a wireless “steering” device to work.
Innr Smart Plug review: A cheaper way for Philips Hue users to take control of their “dumb” lights
Small, sturdy, and reliable, the Innr Smart Plug makes for an inexpensive alternative to the new Philips Hue Smart plug.
Amazon Echo vs. Google Nest: Which of the two big smart platforms is right for you?
The choice between Amazon Alexa-powered Echo devices or Nest gadgets with Google Assistant can be a tough one. We'll help you pick.
This compact device does an impressive job of syncing your Hue lights with your TV without any detectable latency, but it’s pricey, and there’s no remote.
Qobuz lowers its price for high-resolution music streaming to $15 a month, for now
The streaming music service is combining its three monthly subscription plans into one, ditching its $10-a-month MP3 streaming plan in the process.
Vizio unveils a second Product RED 4K TV to help promote AIDS awareness
The Product RED edition of its 50-inch M-Series Quantum 4K HDR smart TV will mark Vizio’s second partnership with the charitable brand.
Free Deezer users in the United States can now play and control their tunes with Alexa
Six months after allowing users in worldwide regions to use its free music tier with Alexa, Deezer is opening the doors to United States users, too.
Amazon Music and enhanced Alexa voice control coming to select Yamaha audio products
Soon, you’ll be able to ask Alexa to stream tunes on compatible Yamaha wireless speakers, AV receivers, soundbars, and more.
LG rolls out firmware update enabling G-Sync compatibility for its 2019 OLED TVs
LG’s B9, C9, and E9 OLED sets are getting the G-Sync update, which promises buttery gaming performance provided you’re using the right GeForce graphics card.
How to create stereo pairs with your Google Home and Google Home Mini smart speakers
Used to be that the Home Max and the Nest Mini were the only Google speakers to support the stereo pairing feature, but no longer.
Google Nest Hub Max review: This surprisingly svelte smart display is a great cook’s companion
Capable of controlling your smart home gadgets while showing off your photos in style, the Nest Hub Max boasts robust sound and even a Nest camera.
Pani Smart Home Water Monitor promises an easier way to keep tabs on your water usage
Compatible with most common water fixtures, the $70 wireless sensor detects leaks and doles out water conservation tips via an iOS or Android app.
Vizio’s upcoming SmartCast 3.5 update promises peppier TV performance
Slated to start rolling out next month, the SmartCast 3.5 update will work on all 2016-and-newer Vizio TVs.
Anker unwraps a battery-powered EufyCam 2 security camera that supports HomeKit
Anker’s Eufy brand embraces Apple's HomeKit and also unveils a battery-powered video doorbell, a floodlight camera, and a security keypad.
Google Nest Mini review: Modest improvements make Google’s smallest smart speaker even better
Expect (slightly) more bass, a mounting hole, and refined controls, all for the same price as the older Home Mini.