Why the Apple TV shouldn’t be a smart assistant speaker

A prominent tech pundit named M.G. Siegler recently wrote about how he believes the Apple TV should have become a smart-home hub: a combination Wi-Fi router, smart speaker, video streaming device, and game console all-in-one. While I can see the appeal, I also see problems that would keep it from becoming a hit product. Apple recently …

How to set up Sonos One with Alexa

The Sonos One is an excellent-sounding smart speaker that has the Amazon Alexa digital assistant built in. You just speak to it, and Alexa does what you ask her to do, such as playing your favorite music. This post features clearly written step-by-step instructions that explain how to get it working.

How to use Sonos with the Amazon Echo (2nd Gen), Echo Plus and Echo Spot

The All-New Echo (2nd Generation), Echo Plus, and Echo Spot from Amazon each have an audio output, which makes them easy to directly connect to some Sonos speakers and components. This post clearly explains how to set this up and get it running.

How to control TP-Link Smart Plugs with Alexa

A TP-Link Smart Plug turns a regular AC outlet into something you can control from anywhere using mobile device, or by using your voice (if you also have an Amazon Echo). It’s more than just fun to say “Alexa, turn on the living room lights.” This is a useful utility that you won’t want to give up. Clearly …

Hands-on review of the Amazon Dash Wand with Alexa

The Amazon Dash Wand with Alexa is a brand new, inexpensive battery-powered shopping and information device for the home. It’s similar, in a way, to the popular Amazon Echo smart speakers, but it’s different in lots of ways, too. Amazon Echo devices are primarily used to listen to music, but, the new Dash Wand isn’t …

Review of the Apple TV (2nd generation), 7 years later

I’ve been actively using my Apple TV (2nd generation) for almost seven years, and I figured March of 2017 was the perfect time to finally share my thoughts on it. Why? I’m getting closer to unplugging this thing from my TV, but I haven’t done so yet. You see, my TV is eight years old. It hails from …

How to use Google Home with Sonos

If you’re wondering if it’s possible to control Sonos speakers and components with just your voice and a Google Home, it is! This article points out all of the Sonos products that are compatible, shows you exactly what you need to get it working, and clearly explains how to do everything.

5 important tips for using the Amazon Echo Dot with Sonos

I own the first generation Amazon Echo Dot, and I’ve been using it since May 2016, and almost the entire time it’s been plugged into my Sonos PLAY:5 speaker. With some trial and error, I’ve cobbled together five solid tips for getting the most out of using it with Sonos. The Dot I own is essentially the …

How to control Sonos with the Spotify app

Spotify and Sonos just made it possible to control Sonos speakers directly from the Spotify mobile app. This new integration was released today, and this blog post clearly explains how to get it all running.

Amazon aims for domination with the 2nd Gen Echo Dot

When Steve Jobs introduced the original iPhone in 2007, he unveiled several major innovations — but the multitouch interface was by far the most important. It redefined the possibilities of mobile tech. Seven years later, Amazon debuted a product that may have an equally impressive input innovation. However, instead of being a sleek handheld gadget, it was a stark, voice-activated speaker. Initially, the …