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.
Senic’s wireless outdoor switch can control everything from Philips Hue lights to Sonos speakers
The weatherized two-button gadget doesn’t need wiring or batteries; it harvests its own energy.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Hampton Products launches Peace Wi-Fi smart lighting line via Best Buy
The new product line includes a range of LED smart bulbs, a smart plug, and an app to tie them together.
Vivint Smart Home is integrating Chamberlain’s myQ garage door technology
Vivint Smart Home customers can now add TechHive’s current favorite smart garage door controller to their systems.
Harman’s new JBL Conceal loudspeakers virtually disappear into your walls
Unlike a typical architectural speaker, JBL Conceal loudspeakers don’t require extensive remodeling to install in existing construction.
Amazon adds a hands-free mode to its Alexa app, sort of
You no longer need to push a button on your mobile device to summon Amazon’s digital assistant, but….