On this week’s episode of the Smart Home Insider podcast, we get into some impressive home robotics, new Apple Intelligence limits, and more!
Kicking off the news for the week, the latest beta of iOS 27 confirmed limits on Apple Intelligence summaries for Apple Home cameras. Depending on your iCloud storage tier, you can have anywhere from 5 to 30 cameras summarized by AI.
Outside of Apple, Govee introduced a new version of its budget light strip. The Govee Strip Light 2 now has Wi-Fi and Matter, plus a new protective coating, upgraded LEDs, and more.
It comes in various sizes from 9.8 feet to 65.6 feet, plus it can be cut to length if it’s too long. This sits below the Govee Strip Light Pro 2 in its lineup.
Eufy has released its Solar Wall Light Cam S4. This all-in-one battery-powered light has a 4K camera, a mmWave presence sensor, and a RGBWW light that supports Apple Home when using one of Eufy’s hubs.
Abode has two new sensors that work with Apple Home if paired with Abode’s security system. There is an outdoor gate contact sensor and a tilt sensor for garage doors.
Sonos and Lutron have announced a new partnership that allows Lutron plugs, shades, and lights to be controlled via the Sonos Voice Assistant. Alternatively, the Lutron Audio pico remote can control your Sonos speakers.
Moving to SwitchBot, it has added a new AI assistant named Kata to its latest app update. Kata can help control accessories, create automations, and check the status of your devices via voice or text.
Finally, Matic has announced “Matic Cues” for its robotic vacuum and mop. These new natural commands allow you to control your robot just by telling it exactly what you want to do.
You can say “hey Matic, clean the edges of the rug in the kitchen,” or say “hey Matic, follow me,” and guide it towards a mess in the home. Even pointing to a mess can be understood by the Matic bot.
This update is available now and makes it far easier to control your vacuum without the need for a smart speaker or an app.
After the news, we go hands-on with a new app. Dashboard works with both Apple Home accessories and RTSP cameras.
It provides a clean dashboard view of your lights, plugs, sensors, and cameras alongside your calendar, weather, and more. The app is free, though a paid version unlocks unlimited accessories and other cool features.
Finally, we review the Mophie 4-in-1 wireless charging stand. It’s unique with 25W of Qi2.2 power, an entirely new passive cooling system, and a retractable 60W USB-C cable.
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