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.
Comcast debuts its Self Protection plan: $10 per month for up to four Xfinity cameras
Comcast’s new, more affordable home security plan offers motion detection notifications and a week’s worth of video storage.
Amazon Echo Dot (4th gen) with Clock review: The clock-equipped Echo Dot gets a spherical makeover
Aside from its new spherical design, the revamped Echo Dot with Clock doesn’t veer far from the original’s winning formula.
Philips Hue Iris review: This gorgeous accent light supports both Zigbee and Bluetooth
Now compatible with Bluetooth, the revamped Philips Hue Iris is twice as bright as the original.
Panasonic SoundSlayer review: This compact, gaming-focused soundbar packs a punch
Just 17 inches long and equipped with a built-in subwoofer, the Panasonic Soundslayer delivers surprisingly big sound in a small package.
Polk Audio MagniFi 2 soundbar review: Virtual 3D audio and built-in Chromecast, but iffy bass
The 2.1-channel MagniFi 2 soundbar from Polk Audio does a solid job at delivering virtualized 3D audio, but gets tripped up by its mediocre bass response.
Netflix hikes prices for its standard and premium plans
Both Netflix’s standard and premium plans are getting price increases in the U.S., while the basic plan is staying as is.
Amazon’s Dash Smart Shelf automatically reorders supplies when you’re running low
When your supplies are running out, the Dash Smart Shelf can automatically reorder them from Amazon, or it can send you a notification.
The new A19 color smart bulbs from Hampton Products are reasonably priced, but some key features, such as a vacation mode, are MIA.
Touch-enabled dashboard for smart devices coming to Amazon Fire tablets
The new Device Dashboard will be accessible from the navigation bar of selected Fire tablets.
Acer’s Halo smart speaker boasts Google Assistant and RGB lighting
The Halo’s integrated RGB lighting can sync with your tunes or help you set the mood.
Amazon Echo Dot (4th gen) review: The new Dot delivers a revamped look and (slightly) better sound
The latest Echo Dot is technically the best Dot yet, but only by a narrow margin.
Signify recalls certain Philips Hue outdoor light power supplies
The PSUs shipping with some Philips Hue Lily, Calla, Econic, and Impress outdoor lights might allow water to seep in, creating a potential shock hazard, Signify said.
Nanoleaf unveils Triangles and Mini Triangles, along with a new line of smart bulbs
Besides the new light panels in its Shapes series, Nanoleaf is showing off a Thread-compatible smart bulb and lightstrip.
Best Prime Day deals on smart lighting, security cams, and other smart home gear
From smart lights and security cameras to robot vacuums and digital photo frames, we've pinpointed some killer Prime Day smart home deals.
Best Prime Day deals on TVs, soundbars, media streamers, and more
Whether you want to trade up to a new 4K (or 8K!) TV or you're in the market for a soundbar or a streaming player, there are great Prime Day deals to be had for home entertainment.