Michael BrownExecutive Editor, TechHive
Michael is TechHive's lead editor and covers the smart 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.
Simplehuman Rectangular Sensor Can review: Have we taken voice control too far?
Sensors in this fancy trash can recognize voice commands and gestures, no smart speaker needed.
Amazon Echo Studio vs. Google Home Max: Battle of the high-end smart speakers
One is more musical, but the other makes a better smart home controller. Which attribute is most important to you?
How to protect your Ring account with the new Control Center privacy dashboard
Ring has updated its app with new and improved privacy tools. Here’s how to make the most of them.
Ring is rolling out its new Control Center privacy dashboard
Owners of Ring video doorbells and other home security products are finally getting some essential privacy protections.
Amazon Echo Studio review: Not quite the best smart speaker, but a fantastic value
The more-expensive Google Home Max delivers higher fidelity, and Sonos has the better multi-room ecosystem, but Amazon’s best Echo shouldn’t be overlooked.
Sonos changes tack on “legacy” hardware
Older hardware still won’t get new software features after May, but operating them won’t prevent firmware updates for new hardware.
Belkin teams with Devialet to build the SoundForm Elite smart speaker and wireless charger
It’s no surprise that Belkin would make a device charger, but a high-end speaker is something else entirely.
Best mesh Wi-Fi routers: Reviews and buying advice
Few elements of your home’s infrastructure have a bigger impact on your tech life. We recommend mesh Wi-Fi routers for most people, and we’ll help you find just the right one for your needs.
Leviton Type A & Type C USB Charger Outlet review: Not smart but handy as a pocket on a shirt
This outlet features built-in USB charging ports and is available in both 15- and 20-amp configurations.
Amazon Echo Dot with Clock review: The display—limited as it is—justifies the $10 upcharge
Love is never having to say, “Alexa, what time is it?”
Qobuz review: A music streaming service on the verge of greatness
And the U.S. version is now integrated with the Sonos multi-room audio system.
Austere VII Series surge protector review: Beautiful protection preciously priced
You can buy a great surge protector for less than $50, so what makes this one worth $200?
Nest Wifi review: A mesh Wi-Fi system and smart speaker mashup for Google Assistant fans
Google's idea to blend a smart speaker with a Wi-Fi access point isn’t new, but the only other one you can buy is powered by Alexa.
Best wireless routers: Reviews and buying advice
pcworld.com
Few elements of your home’s infrastructure have a bigger impact on your tech life. We’ll help you find just the right router to anchor your home network.
Leeo Smart Alert Nightlight review: $100 is cheap if it saves your house from burning down
It plugs into an AC outlet, alerts you to smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and contacts you via an app with a recording of the sound. A few false alarms aside, this security device is a smart buy for any home.