Michael BrownExecutive Editor, TechHive
Michael is TechHive's lead editor and covers the connected-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.
Bowers & Wilkins 704 S2 loudspeaker review: These floor-standers sound as exquisite as they look
You don’t need anything more for critical listening, but you’ll want to pair them with a subwoofer—at least—for home theater use.
Echogear Outlet Shelf review: A brilliant, if not always practical, shelving idea
You’re plugging stuff in that outlet, so why not make use of the space around it?
Sony incorporates Google Assistant into its new wireless smart speaker
But the Sony LF-S50G Wireless Speaker looks less like Google Home and more like Apple’s HomePod.
Philips sweetens its Hue smart bulb starter kits and announces two new light fixtures
Hue starter kits now come with four bulbs instead of three, and there are new downlight and suspension fixtures.
Libratone will convert its Zipp and Zipp Mini speakers into Alexa-powered smart speakers this fall
Own one of these upscale wireless speakers? It’s about to get a whole lot more capable.
Nest unveils the simpler, cheaper Nest Thermostat E
The company is implementing a better, best strategy in pursuit of more buyers.
IFA news: Google is talking up new products that leverage its Google Assistant
A number of new smart speakers will be on the show floor, along with new smart appliances from LG.
Switchmate Bright review: The quick and easy path to smart lighting
You’ll spend more time downloading the app than installing this smart switch.
Vaux speaker dock review: Add battery power and an improved speaker to your Echo Dot
Its acoustic performance won’t knock your socks off, but this combo is vastly superior to the Amazon Tap.
Samsung Connect Home: This router/smart-home hub combo isn’t a star in either role
But if you want one DIY platform for both networking and home control, it’s your best choice for now.
Terk Trinity Xtend review: This TV antenna tries to pull double-duty as a Wi-Fi range extender
Two taste treats in one? Or less than the sum of its parts?
JBL Flip 4 Bluetooth speaker review: Better-than-expected sound in a compact, waterproof enclosure
$100 isn’t chickenfeed, but this small speaker sounds like it should cost a lot more.
V-Moda Remix review: A little too much of a good thing
Thumbs up on the integrated headphone amp, thumbs down on the exaggerated bass.
Best 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray players
An Ultra HD Blu-ray player brings you one step closer to bringing the movie theater experience into the home. Our top pick has all the features most people will need, and it's also the least expensive.
Canary review: A sophisticated home-security system packed inside a camera
This cloud-based security system delivers features galore, but it’s far from perfect.