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591 episodes

Episode 331 · December 11, 2020 · 01:06:10

AI for the Luxury Home with Josh.ai's Alex Capecelatro

On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Alex Capecelatro, CEO of Josh.ai. Our first three-time guest on the podcast, Alex joins us to discuss the company’s upcoming product releases—the Nano and Core. At just over the size of a quarter, the Nano is billed as the world’s first architectural voice-control microphone. Backing up the Nano is the Core, a processor designed specifically to meet the AI and voice-control needs of the most demanding clients. We discuss some of the unique design challenges associated with bringing these products to market, how Josh.ai has continued to evolve based on dealer and client feedback, Alex’s thoughts on the overall AI landscape, and much more. That, plus the latest home tech headlines, including: Logitech releases a new HomeKit-enabled video doorbell. Hulu’s watch party functionality is now available to all users. Warner Bros. unveils a day and date strategy for all of its 2021 theatrical releases. Google adds Apple Music support to its smart speakers. Samsung adds Google Nest integration to its SmartThings platform. Wyze unveils a new security system that’s shockingly cheap, even by Wyze standards. And more…

Episode 330 · December 4, 2020 · 00:55:58

Inovelli's Eric Hines

On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Eric Hines, CEO of Inovelli. Eric shares how he merged his passion for connected home technology with his professional marketing background to form his smart lighting startup. In addition to exploring their current lineup of Z-Wave lighting products, we discuss the company’s uniquely transparent approach to engaging with their users. Eric also shares numerous insights about what it’s like to launch a connected home product company from scratch. That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: A quick recap of this year’s staggering Cyber Monday numbers. CEDIA announces interim co-CEOs. Comcast to cap internet usage in some areas. The Quibi shutdown is complete. Wyze comes out with a $20 smartwatch. And more…

Episode 329 · November 27, 2020 · 00:48:41

Black Friday Special

On this episode of HomeTech: Join us for a special Thanksgiving edition. We discuss some of the best home tech Black Friday deals including bargains on mesh WiFi products, smart speakers and displays, TVs, security systems, and more. That, plus we share a few things we’re grateful for as we enter the home stretch of a very bumpy 2020. Thank you for supporting the show! We wish you and yours a happy and healthy Thanksgiving weekend!

Episode 328 · November 20, 2020 · 00:42:41

Wyze Guys

On this episode of HomeTech: Big personnel moves at SnapAV including the departure of Charlie Kindel. Kaleidescape brings on a new CEO and VP of Marketing. Wyze continues its run of new product launches with a smart sprinkler controller. Hulu raises the price of its live TV service. Sonos introduces a paid tier of its Sonos Radio service. And more…

Episode 327 · November 13, 2020 · 01:19:18

Redefining the TV Experience with Dabkick's Balaji Krishnan

On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Balaji Krishnan, Founder and CEO of Dabkick. Balaji joins us to discuss his company’s new streaming device, Dabby. This device takes a unique approach to the TV experience by eliminating many of the friction points common in today’s streaming-first environment including user fatigue around managing multiple subscriptions, navigating multiple apps, and the dreaded content decision fatigue. The product’s “Watch Together” service also offers users a slick new way to enjoy movies and shows with remotely-located friends and family. We discuss Balaji’s deep background in the streaming video space, what inspired him to develop this innovative product, and how they hope to redefine the TV experience. That, plus a busy week in home tech headlines including: A look at Josh.ai’s new Nano and Core products. Wyze gets into the vacuum game. Comcast launches a new DIY security system. ADT and Google accelerate their plans to launch a new smart home platform. Netflix tests a linear-style TV service in France. And more…

Episode 326 · November 6, 2020 · 01:03:05

Exploring Crestron's Residential Strategy with John Clancy

On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Crestron’s VP of Residential, John Clancy. A long-time channel vet, we explore John’s rise through the industry from Crestron Programmer, to part-owner of one of the country’s largest integrators, to his current post at the helm of Crestron’s global residential efforts. John shares the interesting backstory behind his joining the team at Crestron following the company’s famed departure from CEDIA Expo in 2015. We then do a deep dive into the company’s expanding portfolio including Crestron Home OS, the new 70-series touchpanels, its home conferencing solutions, their wellness partnership with Delos, and much more. If you’re interested in a peek behind the curtain at one of the world’s largest home technology companies, don’t miss this episode! That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: We speculate about JoshAI’s upcoming and much-hyped mystery release. Netflix raises prices again. Comcast and Walmart might make TVs together. Older Nest TStats can now monitor your HVAC system. And more…

Episode 325 · October 30, 2020 · 00:33:26

Magic Fingers

On this episode of HomeTech: Results are in for the CEDIA board. Crestron delivers new 70 series touch screens. Amazon Business unveils a new portal for home tech pros. FuboTV now lets you watch four shows at once on Apple TV. AVNation unveils AVN² virtual event. CE Pro mid-year market report shows strong growth in the channel. And more…

Episode 324 · October 23, 2020 · 00:55:10

Bridging the DIFM Gap with Ring's Andrew Vloyanetes

On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Andrew Vloyanetes, GM of installed solutions at Ring. Andrew leads the go-to-market strategy for professionally installed solutions at the company. The increasing crossover between “DIY” and pro solutions is a trend we’ve long been interested in here at HomeTech, so we were excited to have Andrew on. We discuss Ring’s focus on working backward from customers’ needs, the unique challenges and opportunities inherent in working in the professional channel, the new Ring X line and the strategy behind it, and much more. Having directed the installed solutions strategy at Sonos prior to joining Ring, Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to this important conversation. That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: Quibi calls it quits. LG’s rollable OLED goes on sale in Korea. The Nest Secure is being discontinued. Google unveils upgrades to its smart display UI. And more…

Episode 323 · October 16, 2020 · 01:25:56

SnApple Events

On this episode of HomeTech: we discuss the biggest announcements from SnapAV’s Snap Pro Live and Apple’s iPhone event. We dissect SnapAV’s grand strategy, their focus on services and OvrC, and a host of new Control4 products including updated touch panels, a limited edition NEEO remote, the new Chime Video Doorbell, and more. On the Apple front, we dive into the long-overdue release of a HomePod mini and the new iPhone 12.

Episode 322 · October 9, 2020 · 01:03:19

Growing the Right Way with Justin Worley of Audio Concepts

On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Justin Worley, owner of Audio Concepts in Long Beach, CA, and Desert Valley Audio Video in Scottsdale, AZ. We dive into the lessons Justin has learned growing Desert Valley to a 30-person team and acquiring his second business. Justin shares his perspectives on recruiting, hiring, and team development, the decision to bring electrical work in-house, the importance of “getting your act together” as you grow, how to get out of owner-operator mode, and much more. Home tech pros won’t want to miss this one. That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: The numbers for CEDIA’s first virtual event are in. Apple pulls Sonos and other third party products from its stores. Disney movies are finally available in 4K on iTunes. And more…

Episode 321 · October 2, 2020 · 00:44:06

The Speaker Looks Like a ____

On this episode of HomeTech: We dissect the biggest announcements from the Amazon and Google events this week including: Google’s new Chromecast and Nest Audio speaker; New Echos, Fire TVs, Eero devices, and more from Amazon; and Ring’s entry into car security and… drones?! That, plus: Sonos sues Google for infringement (again). Info on SnapAV’s upcoming virtual event. And more...

Episode 320 · September 25, 2020 · 01:01:29

Making Dumb Appliances Smart with David Bambrick of Connected Life Labs

On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by David Bambrick, CEO of Connected Life Labs. Our conversation explores the company’s mission to make dumb appliances smart. We explore SmartDry, their first product targeted at dryers. An engineer first, David takes us behind the scenes, sharing some of the unique challenges he and his team had to overcome to design an IoT product that functions reliability inside a giant metal box full of wet, tumbling clothes, high temperatures, and static electricity. We then zoom out to discuss the company’s partnerships with energy providers, future plans aimed at other appliances, and more. That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: ISE 2021 gets postponed until June. CEDIA cancels all in-person tech summits for 2020. Lutron announces its Connection 2020 series of virtual events. Wyze is practically giving away its new smart doorbell. Quibi looks for a buyer after a lackluster launch. Roku and NBCU bury the hatchet. And more…

Episode 319 · September 18, 2020 · 01:20:27

CEDIA 2020 Live Special

Join us for a special episode recorded live from HomeTech’s Virtual Happy Hour! We are joined by numerous supporters of the show for an in-depth review of CEDIA’s first-ever virtual Expo. A big thanks to everyone who attended our event, and especially to the diverse group of industry pros who joined us on-air to provide their unique perspectives including Eddie Shapiro of SmartTouch USA, Josh Christian of the Home Technology Association, Justin Rounsefell of the Stratus Group, and Robert Spivack of DoItForMe.solutions.

Episode 318 · September 11, 2020 · 00:50:03

Making Dumb Alarms Smart with Konnected's Nate Clark

On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Nate Clark, Founder of Konnected.io. We discuss Konnected’s novel solution designed to bring antiquated home security systems into the connected home. Nate shares the product’s rapid journey from DIY project to open source offering to business. Our conversation also covers the importance of open source and Nate’s perspectives on the current landscape for smart home “prosumers”. That plus the latest home tech headlines including: A new Ring integration from Lutron. What (not) to expect at Apple’s September 15th event. YouTube TV adds NFL Network to its core offering. A new push into the renter market from Amazon. New indoor and outdoor cameras from Blink. And more…

Episode 317 · September 4, 2020 · 00:59:27

Designing from the Outside-In with Lutron's Melissa Andresko

On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Lutron’s Chief Corporate Brand Ambassador, Melissa Andresko. Melissa—a 22-year industry veteran who has spent her entire career with Lutron—shares her unique perspective on the evolution of the company and the connected home at large. We discuss Lutron’s new Serena Smart Wood blinds, the importance of form and function in product design, how removing even small points of friction creates delighted users, why we need more women involved in the tech industry, and much more. That, plus the latest home tech headlines including: Apple plans augmented reality content to bolster Apple TV+. Spotify considers live virtual concerts, Samsung debuts its first ultra short throw projector. Best Buy shatters Q2 Sales expectations. New Lifx Clean bulb can sanitize surfaces. And more…

Episode 316 · August 21, 2020 · 00:38:09

CueCat

On this episode of HomeTech: Netflix takes aim at the paradox of choice with its new “Shuffle Play” button. FCC filing suggests Ring may have a new hub on the way. OneVision webinar to help home tech pros navigate change successfully. Jason finds a slick new productivity tool. The Smart Home museum receives a generous donation. And more…

Episode 315 · August 14, 2020 · 00:33:50

Make it a Blockbuster All-Nighter

On this episode of HomeTech: Xiaomi makes disappearing OLEDs. The last Blockbuster on earth is offering AirBnB sleepovers. New data shows the smart home is nowhere near “mainstream”. Google Play Music is shutting down. Jason tempts fate. And more…

Episode 314 · August 7, 2020 · 00:43:35

Moose Pi

On this episode of HomeTech: Nortek ends an era with their plans to shut down Niles. The CTA finally gives up its plans for an in-person CES 2021. Google makes a $450 million investment in ADT, who will now install Nest products as part of their smart home offering. Brilliant announces a new platform designed multi-family properties. Universal and AMC theaters strike a deal to bring theatrical releases to the home more quickly. And much more…

Episode 313 · July 24, 2020 · 01:16:39

Taking the Contrarian Position with Brilliant's Aaron Emigh

On this episode of HomeTech: We are joined by Aaron Emigh, CEO and Founder of Brilliant. The conversation starts with an exploration of Aaron’s unique upbringing—growing up off the grid—and how it helped shape his perspective on the connected home. We then dive into Brilliant, discussing the company’s decision to eschew a phone-first approach and instead focus on integrating their technology into the infrastructure of the home. We then ask Aaron—an entrepreneur with multiple successful exits and a holder of over 100 patents—to share some practical tips on innovation and building successful companies (hint: if everyone thinks your idea is great, it probably isn’t). That plus the latest home tech headlines including: Signs that the construction industry may be poised for a strong recovery. Zoom unveils a new all-in-one home videoconferencing solution. Flo by Moen and Yonomi form an interesting partnership to help insurance companies better leverage smart home technology. NBC’s Peacock hides a cake recipe in their terms and conditions. BadPower attack targeting fast chargers could set your device on fire. And more…

Episode 312 · July 17, 2020 · 00:39:13

Goodbye, Amazon Wand

On this episode of HomeTech: CEDIA revives in-person training at its Fishers, IN headquarters. Google unveils its new Nest smart speaker aimed at taking on the Sonos One. Logitech is sunsetting support for the Harmony Express. New app from Caavo enables remote Netflix watch parties. And more…