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.
A cheaper, ad-supported Disney+ plan won’t arrive anytime soon
Disney’s CEO says he’s “happy with the models that we’ve got right now,” although he didn’t completely rule out an ad-supported tier.
YouTube TV offers some subscribers a free TiVo Stream 4K or Chromecast with Google TV player
The move comes as the feud between Google and Roku over the YouTube TV app drags on.
Eve’s easy-to-install but pricey contact sensor offers powerful automations and it works with Thread, but it doesn’t support Alexa or Google Assistant.
Samsung HW-Q800A review: Samsung TV users will get the most out of this 3.1.2 Dolby Atmos soundbar
If you want to try the HW-Q800A’s Q Symphony and SpaceFit features, you’ll need a Samsung TV.
Apple’s Siri is coming to third-party HomeKit accessories
Siri is finally set to arrive in non-Apple HomeKit devices. Also: Apple announces “Home keys” for unlocking doors; plus, new HomePod mini and Apple TV features.
Apple's new SharePlay feature lets you watch, listen with friends via FaceTime
Apple’s new SharePlay feature will support third-party streaming services such as Disney+, HBO Max, and Paramount+.
The Paramount+ $5-a-month Essential plan launches today. Here’s what you need to know
The ad-supported version of Paramount+ just got a buck cheaper, but don’t switch from the older, $6/month with-ads plan until you read this first.
Nanoleaf’s Shapes and new, wood-like Elements panels will both include Thread border routers
Not only do Nanoleaf’s latest light panels boast a “wood-look” finish, they also come with controllers that connect Thread devices to the internet. Shapes panels will also get Thread functionality.
Revamped Philips Hue app gets streamlined 'automations,' multi-user geofencing
Rebuilt from the ground up, the new, more intuitive Philips Hue app boasts more than 100 improvements and refinements. Also: "Dynamic" scenes are coming soon.
HBO Max’s cheaper, ad-supported tier nixes downloads and 4K HDR streaming
If you want to save $5 a month on HBO Max, you’ll have to put up with missing features as well as advertisements.
Vizio’s 2022 soundbar lineup will boast more eARC models
eARC is going mainstream as Vizio’s mid-range M-Series soundbars get the feature.
Welcome to Amazon Sidewalk! Now here’s how to turn it off
Your Amazon Echo speakers and Ring devices may already be enabled to join Amazon’s new, neighborhood-wide Sidewalk networks, but you can turn Sidewalk access off using a single setting.
Apple TV app lands on Nvidia Shield streaming players
Cord-cutters can now stream 'Ted Lasso,' 'The Morning Show,' 'Cherry,' and more on Nvidia’s Shield and Shield Pro, as well as on other Android TV devices.
Vizio M-Series M512a-H6 review: This mid-range soundbar delivers big, dynamic sound
Supporting both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, the Vizio M512a-H6 packs exciting, room-filling sound, even if it lacks Wi-Fi support.
Eve Energy review: This HomeKit smart plug doubles as a Thread router
Besides turning dumb appliances into smart ones, the Eve Energy smart plug can help extend the range of other Thread-enabled devices in your home.