Larry Magid: Turning an old house into a smart home
Briefly

A house built in 1955 has been transformed into a smart home with various devices such as lights, smart plugs, fans, and kitchen appliances. The porch light automatically adjusts based on time and occasion. Voice commands facilitate control over lights, temperature, and music. The homeowner benefits from automation, including a routine that shuts everything down at night. Notifications from appliances ensure food is ready and safety is maintained with open door alerts. Setting up smart systems has become simpler and more affordable for homeowners.
My porch light turns on at sunset and off at sunrise and, on special occasions, changes colors such as orange for Halloween and green for St. Patrick's Day.
When I want to listen to music, I say, 'Alexa, play Rolling Stones,' or whatever I'm in the mood for.
I have a routine that shuts everything down automatically late at night, just in case I forget to turn off the lights and devices.
These automated systems were once complicated and costly to set up, but they are now more accessible and affordable.
Read at The Mercury News
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