Ben PattersonSenior Writer, Macworld
Ben has been writing about technology and consumer electronics for more than 20 years. A PCWorld contributor since 2014, Ben joined TechHive in 2019, where he covers smart speakers, soundbars, and other smart and home-theater devices.
Fitbit Versa 2 hands-on: Alexa, OLED, and an always-on display make a compelling upgrade
With on-board Amazon Alexa, an AMOLED display, and Fitbit Pay for the base model, the Versa 2 looks like it’s ready to go toe-to-toe with the Apple Watch.
If you’re looking for a moderately priced, multi-colored bias lighting strip for the back of your TV, the Luminoodle Color Bias Lighting strip makes for a solid choice.
Govee DreamColor for TV with Alexa review: This bias light uses a camera to sync with your TV screen
If you want more from your TV bias lights than a subtle glow that boosts contrast and eases eye strain, this responsive LED light strip from Govee is worth a try.
Vansky Bias Lighting for HDTV review: This bargain bias lighting strip is a little too cool
This popular LED light strip is easy to install and boasts a variety of colors and light modes, but its color temperature leaves something to be desired.
The MediaLight bias TV lighting review: Subtle bias lighting designed for videophiles
The MediaLight bias lighting strips are designed for discriminating viewers who want to enhance their TV’s visuals while preserving the integrity of the original image.
Philips Hue Play review: This versatile bias lighting kit syncs with your PC
If you’ve already got a Philips Hue Bridge in your home, the Hue Play makes for a great way to add bias lighting to your home theater setup, or as a responsive bias light for your computer monitor.
Samsung HW-Q70R soundbar review: This easy-to-install soundbar delivers Dolby Atmos and DTS:X
Yes, it’s pricey, but the Samsung HW-Q70R lets you add rich, detailed, and immersive sound, complete with Dolby Atmos and DTS;X support, to your TV in a matter of minutes.
Waking your TV with a smart speaker? It could be inflating your energy bill
If you’re using a smart speaker to turn on your TV via voice commands, you might unwittingly be doubling the overall power usage of your TV set.
Nanoleaf’s Canvas smart light squares are poised to take charge of all your HomeKit devices
An update to the Nanoleaf app for iOS will add Touch Actions, a feature that lets you tap specific Canvas light squares on your wall to control your various HomeKit devices.
You just bought a new Amazon Echo device? Do these 6 things first
Get the scoop on how to train Alexa to recognize your voice, prevent unauthorized purchases from Amazon, tell it where you live and work, and more.
Samsung’s post-Prime Day TV and soundbar deals include its gorgeous 8K QLED TV
Think 4K video looks amazing? Wait until you feast your eyes on Samsung’s 8K QLED TV, which is getting an impressive discount in the wake of Amazon Prime Day.
The Beats Solo3 Bluetooth headset is more than 50% off during Amazon Prime Day
When it comes to Bluetooth headphones, “Beats” and “bargain” aren’t words you expect to see in the same sentence. But during this year’s Amazon Prime Day, the Beats Solo3 on-ear headset is selling for its lowest price ever.
Vizio’s discounted Dolby Atmos soundbar turns your living room into a sonic showcase
There’s no easier way to add object-based 3D sound to your living room than with a Dolby Atmos-enabled soundbar, and this 3.1.2 model from Vizio is selling for a $200 discount.
Kangaroo’s new sensor is an enticing entry-level choice given its no-tools, no-hub setupd and $30 price tag. But sensors on their own can't provide a complete picture of what’s happening in your home.
Why your next smart bulb might have Bluetooth inside
While the Zigbee wireless standard has traditionally ruled the roost when it comes to wireless smart bulb protocols, Bluetooth appears to be gaining momentum.