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AppleInsider

Learn about the latest smart home news on Smart Home Insider! Host Andrew O'Hara discusses the weekly news, exclusive interviews, in-depth how-to's, smart home automations, integrating Siri Shortcuts, and reviews his recent smart home projects with an added focus on Apple Home & Matter.

HomeKit Insider

Leif Lindner, CEO of IFA Berlin, shares insights on the upcoming IFA show, the latest in smart home technology, robotics, and appliance innovation. Discover what to expect from this major event and the future trends shaping consumer electronics.

Key Topics

 • IFA Berlin's significance and scale
 • Latest smart home and appliance innovations
 • Emerging robotics and AI trends
 • Energy monitoring and sustainability in smart devices
 • Impact of AI on privacy and security
 • Future of household chores with robotics
 • Differences between IFA and CES
 • Upcoming product announcements and trends

Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:

@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me here
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel

 • Subscribe to the 
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel • and watch our episodes every week! 
Click here to subscribe.
Links from the show

Apple iPhone 18 Event AnnouncedHomey Device Firmware UpdatesIFA 2026
Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

Apple iPhone 18 Event Confirmed & IFA 2026 Preview with Leif Lindner

Andrew covers a fast-moving smart home news roundup before diving into the latest Apple smart home rumors, including signs of a new Smart Home Hub, a possible Home OS, and related accessories.

Key topics

 • Homey adds solar forecasting and export pricing
 • Comcast’s Wi-Fi Motion feature
 • Eufy’s new NVR security camera system
 • Shelly’s battery-powered flood sensor
 • TCL’s Matter-enabled smart lock
 • Malware found in cheap Android TV boxes
 • Sonos hardware leaks and Live Activities support
 • Apple’s rumored Smart Home Hub and Home OS
 • Possible pricing, sensors, and wall-mounted/tabletop versions

Highlights

 • Apple’s smart home roadmap is starting to look more real
 • Widgets and live activities may be central to the user experience
 • The episode also covers the smartest new devices and biggest risks in the broader smart home market

Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:

@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me here
Sponsored by:

Quo • : Try QUO for free PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to 
https://quo.com/HOMEKIT • !
Hims • : Visit 
https://hims.com/homeinsider • to get a personalized plan that gets you!

Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel

 • Subscribe to the 
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel • and watch our episodes every week! 
Click here to subscribe.
Links from the show

Homey solar energy updatesSonos soundbar leaksSonos Live ActivitiesAndroid streaming box botnet Reddit postFBI streaming box PSAComcast motion trackingTCL D2 Pro smart lockShelly Flood Gen 4macOS Tahoe leak
Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

Apple Smart Home Hub Rumor Roundup: 7-Inch Display, Facial Recognition, & Widgets!

Andrew O'Hara flies solo this week and covers a packed smart home update with new Apple Home and iOS 27 details, notable product launches from Govee, Eufy, Abode, Sonos, Lutron, SwitchBot, PetLibro, Matic, Dashboard, and Mophie. The episode is especially useful if you care about how Apple Intelligence is being tied to iCloud tiers, or you want to see which new devices are actually doing something meaningfully different.

In this episode, Andrew breaks down the newest Apple Home camera summary limits, explains why Govee’s updated light strip matters for Matter users, and highlights Eufy’s standout solar-powered wall light camera. He also dives into a new AI assistant in SwitchBot, a troubling PetLibro server outage, and Matic’s unusually smart vacuum controls that let you point and say what to clean.

Key topics

 • Andrew is flying solo this week after traveling, and he sets up a news-heavy episode focused on smart home updates and reviews.
 • iOS 27 Developer Beta 5 adds a new Apple Home camera summary explainer in Home settings, showing that Apple Intelligence features are being tied to iCloud plan tiers.
 • Apple Home now appears to limit summarized video cameras based on the iCloud tier, separate from HomeKit Secure Video camera limits.
 • Govee’s new Strip Light 2 moves from Bluetooth to Wi-Fi and adds Matter over Wi-Fi, making it much more relevant for Apple Home users.
 • The strip also gets updated LumiBlend tech, improved white light reproduction, cut-to-length support, protective coating, and multiple sizes from about 10 feet to 65.6 feet.
 • Eufy’s Solar Wall Light Cam S4 is the standout product of the week for Andrew, combining a 4K camera, wall sconce lighting, solar charging, a 10,000 mAh battery, and millimeter-wave motion sensing.
 • Andrew emphasizes why Eufy’s radar-based motion detection is a big upgrade over basic PIR or pixel-difference motion sensing.
 • Abode adds two outdoor-friendly sensors: an outdoor contact sensor with weather resistance and a garage tilt sensor for doors, sheds, and hatches.
 • Sonos and Lutron expand their integration so Sonos voice control can operate Lutron Caseta lights, shades, and plugs, while a Pico remote can control Sonos playback.
 • SwitchBot’s beta AI assistant, KATA, can control devices across rooms, check battery status, guide setup, and even create automations through natural language.
 • PetLibro had server issues that disrupted some pet feeders, fountains, and litter boxes, raising Andrew’s recurring concern about cloud dependence in smart home gear.
 • Matic unveils Matic Cues, a major AI-driven update for its vacuum that lets users speak naturally, point to messes, and command the robot to clean specific spots.
 • Andrew also reviews a new Dashboard app for Apple Home and RTSP cameras that focuses on a clean dashboard-first experience.
 • The episode closes with the Mophie 4-in-1 charging stand, which adds a hidden retractable USB-C cable and manages to stay compact without active cooling.

Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:

@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me here
Sponsored by:

Hims • : Visit 
https://hims.com/homeinsider • to get a personalized plan that gets you!
Copilot Money • : Limited-time: Get two months free when you sign up at 
copilot.money/smarthome • and use coupon code 
SMARTHOME • !

Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel

 • Subscribe to the 
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel • and watch our episodes every week! 
Click here to subscribe.
Links from the show

iOS 27 Beta 5 Apple Intelligence limitsGovee Strip Light 2 on AmazonEufy Solar Wall Cam Light S4Abode Gate & Tilt SensorSonos & Lutron IntegrationsPetlibro Reddit ThreadPetlibro OutageMatic RobotDashboard App for Apple Home & RTSPMophie 4-in-1 Wireless Charging Stand
Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

Natural Language Instructions for Matic Robot, Apple Intelligence Limits, & Mophie 4-in-1 Review

This week's guest host is Daniel Wroclawski, Senior Home & Appliances Writer at Consumer Reports. Andrew and Dan cover the latest smart home news, from Apple Home dashboard apps and new Matter gear to premium locks, Matter dehumidifiers, smart shades, and mesh router recommendations. They also answer listener questions and share practical advice on the best products for real-world homes.

Highlights

 • Home Deck app for Apple TV and iPad
 • Leviton’s new Matter-over-Wi-Fi Decora switch and dimmer
 • Ubiquiti SuperLink and Thread hardware
 • Flight Portrait, the e-ink flight tracker
 • Schlage Sense Pro vs. Aqara U400
 • 12 South’s updated 25W valet charger
 • HiSense Matter dehumidifier
 • Smart shade retrofit recommendations
 • Mesh router picks for smart homes

Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:

@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me here
Sponsored by:

CleanMyMac • : Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code 
SMARTHOME • for 20% off at 
https://clnmy.com/SMARTHOMEFactor • : Head to 
factormeals.com/hki50off • and use code
 hki50off • to get 50 percent off and 1 free breakfast item per box for 1 year, while supplies last until 10/31/2026!

Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel

 • Subscribe to the 
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel • and watch our episodes every week! 
Click here to subscribe.
Links from the show

Consumer Reports Smart Home HubDan Wroclawski at CRHomeDeck on App StoreNew Leviton Decora DimmerNew Leviton Decora SwitchUbiquiti Thread ProFlightPortrait Flight TrackerSchlage Sense ProSchlage Sense Pro ReviewTwelve South ValetHisense Matter DehumidifierSmartWings Retrofit RollerSmartWings Sun Filter ShadesEero 7 Pro
Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

Flight Tracking Poster, Schlage Sense Pro Review, & Listener Questions with Dan Wroclawski from Consumer Reports

In this episode, Andrew sits down with Avi Rosenthal, chair of the Z-Wave Alliance, to explore the future of smart home technology, the role of open standards, and why Z-Wave still matters in a world of Matter, Thread, and Wi‑Fi. They also dig into recent government restrictions on smart devices, the rise of Z-Wave Long Range, and what true interoperability looks like in the connected home.

Topics covered:

 • The new ban on foreign robotics to the U.S.
 • New rumors on Apple's smart home timeline
 • A new circulator fan from SwitchBot
 • Homey's new Matter 1.5 certification
 • Why Z-Wave is still worth considering in new and existing smart homes

Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:

@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me here
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel

 • Subscribe to the 
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel • and watch our episodes every week! 
Click here to subscribe.
Links from the show

Apple's smart home rollout timelineHomey's Matter 1.5 certificationSwitchBot Circular Fan 2 Pro
Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

U.S. Bans Foreign Robovacs & How Z-Wave is Staying Relevant in 2026 with Guest Avi Rosenthal

In this episode, Andrew explores the latest smart home upgrades, from energy-monitoring smart plugs and Nanoleaf’s modular desk stand to the growing Matter-powered camera ecosystem. He shares practical insights on reliability, privacy, and compatibility to help you build a smarter home that actually works.

Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:

@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me here
Sponsored by:

Shopify • : Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at 
shopify.com/homekit • !
Quo • : Try QUO for free PLUS get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to 
https://quo.com/HOMEKIT • !

Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel

 • Subscribe to the 
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel • and watch our episodes every week! 
Click here to subscribe.
Links from the show

Aqara H2 Smart Plug Amazon deNanoleaf Monitor StandSonos App Update Details
Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

Matter-Enabled Monitor Stand, Big Sonos App Update, & A New Studio!

In this episode, Andrew talks with Alan Coleman, CPO at Plume, about how the company is moving beyond Wi-Fi management to improve the overall connected-home experience. They cover smart home reliability, AI-powered troubleshooting, cybersecurity, and why open standards like Thread and Matter matter for the future of home networking.

Topics covered:

 • Plume’s shift from hardware to software
 • How ISPs use Plume to manage home connectivity
 • AI, customer care, and network optimization
 • Thread, Matter, and smarter routers
 • Privacy and cybersecurity in the connected home

Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:

@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me here
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel

 • Subscribe to the 
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel • and watch our episodes every week! 
Click here to subscribe.
Links from the show

PlumeAirversa Smart HumidifierZemismart 2-Gang Smart SwitchiOS 27 Public Beta Video
Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

Public Beta of tvOS 27, Thread Humidifier, & Smart Home Wi-Fi with Plume CPO Alan Coleman

In this episode, Andrew dives into an exclusive hands-on review of the Channel Master Pro Floodlight, highlighting its innovative use of coaxial power and the unmatched reliability that makes it a favorite among pros. We’ll compare it with Govee's 3,000-lumen solution, exploring pros, cons, and which is best suited for your property—whether you’re looking for affordability, durability, or compatibility with Apple HomeKit. Plus, Andrew discusses other killer outdoor options, from affordable solar-powered models to professional-grade solutions, helping you choose the perfect floodlight for your needs. Plus, other news from the week and a bunch of listener questions.

You'll discover:

 • How the Channel Master floodlight’s coaxial setup simplifies outdoor installation with up to 150 feet of wiring.
 • Why reliability and stability are critical for outdoor security, and how these models excel.
 • The latest in Matter and Thread support for smart home networks, including new updates from Google and Apple that promise more robust connectivity.
 • Practical tips for integrating outdoor floodlights with existing smart systems, including advanced motion sensing and automation hacks.
 • Why outdoor smart lighting is an underserved space—and how this new wave of products is about to change that.

Missing out on the latest outdoor smart tech could leave your property dark when it counts most. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional installer, understanding these innovative solutions unlocks new levels of security, convenience, and energy savings. Andrew’s insights set the stage for smarter, brighter outdoor spaces—connect your landscape to the future.

This episode is perfect for homeowners, outdoor security fans, smart home enthusiasts, and pros looking to upgrade their outdoor lighting game. With reliability, innovative design, and ecosystem compatibility at the forefront, these floodlights could be the game-changer your property needs. Tap into the future of outdoor smart lighting—hit play now.

Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:

@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me here
Sponsored by:

Shopify • : Sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at 
shopify.com/homekit • !
CleanMyMac • : Get Tidy Today! Try 7 days free and use my code 
SMARTHOME • for 20% off at 
https://clnmy.com/SMARTHOME
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel

 • Subscribe to the 
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel • and watch our episodes every week! 
Click here to subscribe.
Links from the show

iCloud requirements for Apple Intelligence Apple Home featuresGovee Floodlight on AmazonEcobee App UpdateNew Roomba's launchChannel Master Pro Floodlight reviewPurchase Channel Master Pro FloodlightOrein bathroom light & exhaust fanAqara G100Eufy E220Tapo C210P2Tapo C120
Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

Channel Master Pro Floodlight Review & Listener Question Roundup!

Dive into this episode where we have a giveaway from Eve to celebrate the World Cup. We also explore the latest in smart home tech, including exciting product launches from Third Reality, Zemismart, Nanoleaf, and Switchbot. Find out how these innovations can enhance your living space and streamline your automation setup.

In this episode:

 • Eve's new soccer-themed product bundle, including the Eve Flare and exclusive stickers, scarf, and NFC coaster
 • Overview of recent ceiling lights from Switchbot and Nanoleaf featuring RGBIC, Matter support, and advanced controls
 • Hands-on review of Switchbot's AI art frame, focusing on its e-ink display, artwork options, and AI enhancements
 • Tips for choosing PoE-enabled security devices compatible with Apple Home, including cameras and doorbells
 • Insights into upcoming support for smart water heaters with Matter and recommendations for smart thermostat choices

Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:

@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me here
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel

 • Subscribe to the 
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel • and watch our episodes every week! 
Click here to subscribe.
Links from the show

Follow Eve on TwitterFollow AppleInsider on TwitterFollow Andrew on TwitterThird Reality TL2SwitchBot Ceiling LightNanoleaf Ceiling LightZemismart Matter-Over-Wi-Fi AC IR BlasterZemismart Zigbee IR Blaster
Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

Dueling Ceiling Lights, Eve Giveaway, & AI e-Ink Art Frame Review

Dive into this episode where we unpack recent developments on Thread features and partnerships, to industry shifts in pricing and product launches. Stay informed about what’s next in IoT and how it impacts your connected home setup. Joining this week is Ann Olivo, VP of marketing for the Thread Group.

Key topics:

 • The new Thread app and its features, including network visualization tools for developers
 • Apple’s iOS 27 beta and updates to HomePod, Apple TV, and their impact on smart home automation
 • Signify’s new Skylight product and its control limitations
 • Google’s new Gemini speaker and its AI integration
 • Industry price hikes for Apple products, including HomePods and Apple TV
 • Collaboration between Signify (Philips Hue) and Silicon Labs for dual Zigbee and Thread support
 • The significance of outdoor Thread devices and upcoming products for garden and yard automation
 • The introduction of ThreadDirect for point-to-point device management
 • Future initiatives for broader Thread adoption in broadband and IoT ecosystems

Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:

@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me here
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel

 • Subscribe to the 
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel • and watch our episodes every week! 
Click here to subscribe.
Links from the show

Thread Tools app beta signupThread Group Tools app announcementPhilips SkylightGoogle Home Speaker with Gemini
Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

How Thread is Fixing Smart Home Networking with Ann Olivo

In this episode of Smart Home Insider, Andrew O'Hara covers the first public-facing Unify conference from the CSA, key updates around Matter 1.6, and several major smart home and consumer tech headlines. CSA's Jon Harros joins to talk Matter 1.6, security enhancements, and new device categories. Discover how industry leaders are shaping the future of IoT, smart homes, and interoperability.

Main Topics:

 • Matter 1.6 release insights and new features
 • Security enhancements in Matter 1.1 including product security and scalability
 • Emerging device categories like water heaters and their industry demand
 • Innovations in user experience, NFC, joint fabric, energy management
 • Industry collaboration and member-driven development process

In this episode:

 • Jon Harros, Head of Certification & Testing at the Connectivity Standards Alliance, shares insights from Unify 2023
 • Details on Matter 1.6 updates, NFC improvements, joint fabric, security protocols
 • Industry trends and future device category expectations
 • How member companies drive the standards and product development
 • Exciting announcements, including new partnerships and security measures

Send me your smart home questions and recommendations with the hashtag #SmartHomeInsider. Tweet and follow your host at:

@andrew_osu on Twitter@andrewohara941 on ThreadsEmail me here
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel

 • Subscribe to the 
Smart Home Insider YouTube Channel • and watch our episodes every week! 
Click here to subscribe.
Links from the show

Jon Harros | CSA Head of Testing & CertificationMatter 1.6 AnnouncementProduct Security 1.1 AnnouncementMatter 1.6 AppleInsider CoverageSilicon Labs Matter-over-Thread Test NetworkFirst HDMI 2.2 Devices ArrivingSchlage Sense Pro
Those interested in sponsoring the show can reach out to us at: andrew@appleinsider.com

Matter 1.6, Product Security 1.1, & More with CSA's Jon Harros, LIVE from Unify!

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