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.
Voice Match, hotword sensitivity and more coming to third-party Google Assistant speakers
Some of Google Assistant’s best features, including the ability to pick a "preferred" speaker, won’t be limited to first-party Google devices anymore.
SunBriteTV’s outdoor Pro 2 Series 4K HDR TV is designed to weather the elements
The updated Pro 2 4K TV from SunBriteTV features its own heating and cooling systems, as well as a built-in media cabinet.
Swann’s Wire-Free Security Camera boasts free facial recognition and cloud storage
Swann's new Wi-Fi-enabled 1080p $149 security cam supports both Alexa and Google Assistant.
How to drop in on all your Amazon Echo devices at once
Besides Alexa's new ability to let you drop in on all your Echo devices at once, you can now set reminders on all your Echo speakers and displays, too.
Anker delays HomeKit compatibility for its recently announced Eufy Indoor Cams
HomeKit compatibility for the new Eufy Indoor Cams will have to wait until next month, but there’s a silver lining for this particular cloud.
HomeKit-exclusive Eve Cam slated to ship this month
Eve Systems’s $150 indoor security camera supports Apple’s Secure HomeKit Video protocol.
Roku rolls out a programming guide for its free streaming TV channels
The new programming grid for The Roku Channel will arrive following the launch of about 30 new streaming TV channels.
Google’s Advanced Protection Program now supports Nest users
You can now use Google’s toughest authentication protocol if you have Nest cameras, thermostats, or other devices associated with your Google account.
Amazon’s fashion-centric Echo Look camera will stop working in July
Time is up for Amazon’s $200 Echo Look, which snaps photos of your outfits and makes Alexa-powered fashion suggestions.
Hulu, Plex roll out group watch party features
Both Hulu and Plex have started testing features that let far-flung friends and loved ones stream videos together.
Netatmo adds a siren to its Smart Outdoor Camera
Netatmo's new Smart Outdoor Camera with Siren boasts (wait for it) a built-in siren designed to scare away intruders.
Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box gets support for IR remotes, Dolby Vision/HDR10+, and voice control
The Philips Hue Play HDMI Sync Box can now be controlled with a third-party infrared remote control or with voice commands via Alexa, Google Assistant or Siri.
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.
Prestige smart home product developer Savant Systems set to acquire GE Lighting
Previously focused on high-end custom installers, Savant's acquisition of the 130-year-old GE Lighting brand indicates the company is eyeing expansion into the retail smart home market.
Spotify nixes 10,000-item limit for saved music libraries
Spotify fanatics, rejoice: no more will you need to prune your collections of songs and albums because your Spotify library is maxed out.