There are a million ways to use your smartphone. I am actually still shocked that they still have the word “phone” in them. I wanted to share one of my favorite ways to use my smartphone, it’s a common one, but many have no idea they can do this. Your smartphone and these smart home apps can control just about anything you want it to in your home. We have had an opportunity to play around with most of these, and for the most part, installation is very simple and using them is just as easy.
We are able to control so many things in our home that our 60 year old home could actually be confused with a smart home!
Here is an example of some smart home apps and what they can control. There are some additional products that have to be purchased in addition to downloading the app, but overall, they are very handy and can make you feel right at home, from anywhere in the world.
Top Smart Home Apps & Their Products:
Thermostat – With your smartphone, you can adjust your temperature and set your schedule, great for trips, or when you really want to come home to a warmer home. We have used Nest, Honeywell and Ecobee and love features of them all.
Turn on outlets and lights in the home – apps and products like WeMo & Zuli can turn power on to a plugged in outlet, turn lights on and control small appliances like crock pots and others.
Lock & Unlock doors – Apps and products from Kwikset, Schlage and more, you can remotely open your door, and most can even sense your smartphone is near and open for you without a key thanks to Bluetooth technology. This includes garage doors with products from MyQ, which allows you to remotely open and close your garage door and even set alarms if you leave the door open too long or past a certain time.
Security Cameras – Many cameras are able to connect to the cloud and allow you viewing access. My favorite and easiest to install is a truly wireless camera from Arlo – simple to install and great to use!
TV – This last one really isn’t about your home, but it can make you feel like you are at home. Most likely your cable system has some options and an app that allow at least limited viewing away from home. But products and app like Slingbox allow you to take your TV with you on the road.
With so many ways that your smartphone allows you to make you feel at home from anywhere on earth (with an internet connection!). Which of these smart home apps will you try first, or add to your existing smart home arsenal?
I love this thanks for the review.