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.
Amazon Echo Dot (2nd generation) review: This is the Echo most people should buy
The least-expensive Echo does everything its pricier siblings do, but you should spring for an outboard speaker if you want it to play music.
The Sevenhugs Smart Remote magically adapts to control whatever device it's pointed at
Okay, it’s not really magic, the remote relies on an indoor positioning system to know where it and the devices you’d have it control are located within the room.
Netatmo Presence review: This outdoor home security camera/floodlight justifies its high price tag
It costs almost twice as much as some of its closest competitors, but you’ll only pay once because there are no subscription fees.
LampChamp light-socket USB charger review: It’s kinda handy
This gadget turns most any lamp into a readily accessible USB charger.
Roost Smart Smoke Alarm RSA-400 review: It’s all about that battery
This 4-in-1 smoke detector comes with a smart back-up battery, but that’s as high as it raises the bar.
Logitech to release an Alexa skill for its Harmony Hub-based universal remote controls
Own an Echo and a Logitech Harmony Hub-based universal remote? You can now control your entertainment system with voice commands.
Google's Wifi deploys several small routers to blanket your home with Wi-Fi
Surprisingly few details have been revealed about Google's $129 wireless router, despite the company's plans to take preorders in November and deliver it in December.
Google Home is set to battle Amazon's Echo for voice control of the smart home
You can pre-order Google's voice assistant now for delivery on November 4.
Canary spreads its wings with a weatherproof security camera, new accessories and services
The battery-powered Canary Flex can operate truly wire free, and a new membership benefit could reimburse up to $1000 of your insurance deductible in the event of a break-in.
The Glance Clock promises to change your concept of timekeeping
This analog/digital hybrid only looks like a classic wall clock.
Cree A19 soft-white dimmable LED bulb review: Great light and perfect dimming
These dumb bulbs are perfect for smart lighting.
Enclave Audio CineHome HD review: Plenty of bang for the home theater buck
The 'wire-free' claim is a wee bit overblown, but that doesn't mean this system isn't a good value.
Nest ships its Nest Cam Outdoor and shows off new colors for its Nest Thermostat
Nest Cam users will need a subscription to get all the new features, but non-subscribers aren't left totally in the cold.
Sony has Bose and its Quiet Comfort noise-cancelling headphones in its sights
Coming soon from Sony: New wireless and wired headphones, an audiophile headphone amp, and a gold-plated Walkman machined from solid copper.
Z-Wave (part of it, at least) becomes an open smart-home standard
Sigma Designs has released crucial software elements of its Z-Wave technology into the public domain.