Michael BrownExecutive Editor, TechHive
Michael is TechHive's lead editor and covers the smart home and home entertainment markets. He built his own smart home in 2007, which he uses as a real-world test lab when reviewing new products. Michael also reviews routers and networking products for TechHive and PCWorld.
The best smart switches and dimmers: Lighting is the foundation of the smart home
In-wall lighting controls bring convenience, security, luxury, and sophistication into your home.
Best Bluetooth speakers: Reviews and buying advice
We'll help you find the best wireless speakers for pairing with your smartphone or tablet—whatever your budget, and whatever music floats your boat.
Alexa users can say “Hey Samuel” to summon Samuel L. Jackson’s voice
The option of hearing the actor's voice was already available, but you had to say "Alexa, ask Sam..." first.
Arlo adds a wireless video doorbell to its home security offerings
The Arlo Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell will arrive in early 2021.
Naim Audio, Focal, and Bentley Motors join forces to design high-end home audio components
The three-way collaboration results in the Naim Mu-so for Bentley Special Edition all-in-one audio system, and the Focal for Bentley Radiance headphone.
Leviton’s new Zigbee smart lighting controls are already available to Xfinity Home users
Smart-home owners, including Xfinity Home users, have new options in smart lighting control.
Z-Wave technology gets new long-range capabilities
The new Z-Wave Long Range specification delivers 4x increase in range, 10x increase in smart-home network size.
The Philips Hue Iris table lamp is making a comeback
Signify says the first Philips Hue product designed for indirect ambient lighting has been redesigned will and go on sale in October.
Bowers & Wilkins’ 600 Series Anniversary Edition speakers feature component and cabinet upgrades
The full range includes bookshelf, center, and tower speakers; plus a complete home theater bundle.
Best smart speakers: Which deliver the best combination of digital assistant and audio performance?
With models based on Alexa, Google Assistant, Siri, and others to come, we’ll help you find just the right model.
Level Lock Touch is the smart lock entirely reimagined
The maker of our favorite retrofit smart lock now has a complete product.
Ecobee Total Home Comfort and Security Bundle review: An underwhelming home security solution
There are excellent components in this package, but they don’t add up to a great DIY home security system.
The best smart shades: These luxurious window treatments blend high tech with high fashion
Smart, motorized shades and blinds cost a pretty penny, but do they ever bring the wow.
Hunter Douglas has a rechargeable battery option for its motorized window shades
Rechargeable battery wands mount on the shade’s headrail and last a full year on one charge.
Nest isn’t the only thermostat maker with greater smart home ambitions.
Articles by Michael Brown
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