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.
Osram says it’s turning off cloud servers for Lightify smart bulbs next August
Many functions on Osram's Lightify app will stop working once its cloud servers power down, but you'll still be able to use Lightify devices with a third-party Zigbee hub.
Arlo smart cameras will require two-factor authentication by the end of the year
You can enable two-step verification for Arlo's security cameras right now, but it'll be required before the year is out.
5 ways to make the most of your Alexa timers
Did you know you can name your Alexa timers? You can also set sleep timers, ask Alexa to set up reminders, and more.
Spotify’s mobile app makes it easier to dip back into your favorite playlists
The redesigned Spotify home screen for mobile lets you pick up a listening session right where you left off, or it can point you in the direction of new tunes.
This no-hub smart bulb is easy to install, and it supports Alexa and Google Assistant.
How to make Alexa and Google Assistant let you know when they start—and stop—listening
You can set your Echo and Google Home or Nest devices to give you audio cues when they start—and, more importantly, stop—listening for commands.
Google is 'aware' of buggy Bluetooth for Home and Nest speakers and working on a fix
If your Google Home or Nest device can’t maintain a solid Bluetooth connection with a phone or an external speaker, you’re not the only one.
Amazon Echo Glow review: A fun, kid-friendly smart lamp that works with Alexa
The durable, inexpensive Echo Glow is pretty good at the limited range of things it can do.
Spotify’s redesigned iOS app gives the Shuffle Play button a sleeker look
More icons, fewer words is the idea behind the Spotify mobile redesign, which is “coming soon” to Android.
Netatmo’s Smart Indoor Camera now supports Apple HomeKit Secure Video
The HomeKit Secure Video update will allow Netatmo Smart Indoor Security Camera users to securely store their saved video clips in iCloud.
Easy to set up and compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, WiZ Connected’s attractive, Wi-Fi-enabled ST19 filament bulb doesn't require a hub, and the price is right.
Disney+ is coming to Vizio’s SmartCast TV platform
Vizio announced that Disney+ will be available on its SmartCast platform starting this week in the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Canada.
First Alert’s Alexa-enabled Onelink Safe & Sound smoke detector is getting AirPlay 2 support
Yes, you can now stream music to your Onelink Safe & Sound smoke detector via your iPhone, iPad, or Mac.
Anker Nebula Soundbar—Fire TV Edition review: Great Fire TV and Alexa functionality, but so-so sound
This 2.1-channel soundbar comes with Fire TV and Alexa onboard, but we weren’t impressed by its mediocre audio.
Just plug the compact and inexpensive Echo Flex into a wall outlet and start chatting with Alexa.