Episode 260 - A Chat with abode systems' CEO, Chris Carney

On this episode of HomeTech: We welcome Chris Carney, CEO, and co-founder of abode systems, onto the show. Chris joins us to discuss abode’s robust and highly customer-centric approach to DIY home security. We cover everything from abode’s flexible pricing options and smart home integrations, to the exploding popularity of DIY security and the challenges faced by consumers in today’s evolving connected home market. Don’t miss it!

That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: Control4 lifts the veil on their new OS3 software. New insights from Best Buy on their Total Tech Support program. Hubitat introduces a mobile app. Amazon expands it’s Alexa Announcements capabilities. A new ecobee thermostat rumored to be coming very soon. And more…

Fan of the show? Want to support our efforts? Please consider becoming a Patron!

Episode 259 - The Future of Remote Systems Management

On this episode of HomeTech: We explore the current state of remote systems management (RSM). Not long ago, four major players existed in the market—BakPak (Control4), Domotz, Ihiji, and OvrC (SnapAV). Control4, who acquired Ihiji back in 2018, has now merged with SnapAV, potentially bringing a market of four RSM platforms down to two. What will this consolidation mean for the future of remote tech support? What can be done to take this category to the next level? Tune in to get our take.

That plus the latest headlines including: Lutron announces a clever new product to work with Hue lighting. Savant rolls out HomeKit support ahead of LightFair. Samsung reportedly working on a smaller Galaxy Home. The U.S. might blacklist China’s Hikvision (and why this is a big freakin’ deal). Marantz and Denon roll out new receivers with built-in RSM software. And more…

Episode 258 - Saying "Alexa" as Many Times as Possible with Guest Co-Host Richard Gunther

Episode 257 - Does Not Work with Nest

On this episode of HomeTech: We take a deep dive into Alphabet’s decision to bring Google Home, Nest, Chromecast, and Google WiFi all under a new unified brand, Google Nest. Additionally, we discuss the controversial decision made as part of this merger to kill off the Works with Nest program, bringing an end to many popular third-party integrations. What do these moves mean for the company, consumers, and for home tech pros alike?

That, plus: Echo and Google Home Mother’s Day deals. Amazon and Blink team up to launch a new wireless outdoor security camera. A first look at the AirPlay 2 and HomeKit integrations on new Vizio TVs. A look at the new Nest Hub Max 10-inch smart display. And more…

Episode 256 - Dream Machine

On this episode of HomeTech: The CE Pro 100 list for 2019 is out. A look at Savant’s new architectural POE speakers. Wyze releases their new (insanely cheap) Wyze Sense kit. Amazon may be working on a new hi-fidelity streaming service. A team at Harvard thinks they know how the streaming TV war will be won. The once-hot robotics startup, Anki, has crashed and burned. August halts sales of their new View doorbell camera after widely reported issues by early users. UniFi’s interesting new Dream Machine merges pro features with a consumer aesthetic. Is Congress finally getting serious about IoT security?

And more…