Smart appliances are everywhere now, but it’s not always practical to update to the latest and greatest –especially if you’re on a tight budget. You can add some modern functionality to your old, trusty appliances and other devices with smart plugs. At CES 2019, D-Link introduced new Wi-Fi smart plugs for both indoor and outdoor use so you can add connectivity features to any of your appliances.
D-Link’s new line of internet-connected plugs includes the Indoor Wi-Fi Smart Plug and the Outdoor Wi-Fi Smart Plug, both of which can provide previously unattainable connectivity to any device that plugs into an outlet. According to D-Link, the plugs can integrate into mydlink, the company’s ecosystem for connected devices that allows you to control devices remotely from your phone.
The plugs connect to your Wi-Fi network rather than a centralized hub so as long as your home network is online you’ll be able to communicate with your plugs and other devices.
Through the mydlink app, you can set up all sorts of automated processes. You can switch the plugs on and off remotely, or you can schedule times for the plugs to activate. It’s an effective way to control your devices and minimize your electricity costs by turning off your devices when you aren’t using them. Even if you forget to flip the switch yourself, just turn it off from your phone or set up a time for it to shut down when you know you won’t be using it.
In addition to the smart plugs, D-Link is also rolling out a Wi-Fi Water Sensor. Designed to stay connected via mydlink, the sensor keeps a close eye on your water and prevents against any potential leaks. It runs on batteries so it can be placed just about anywhere, including under a water heater, the sink, or alongside pipes that would otherwise be hard to monitor.
“The new integrations provide a versatile set of options for those with mydlink compatible products,” said Oscar Reyes, vice president of marketing, D-Link Systems, Inc. “With the new enhancements, it will be easier for people to connect their smart home by adding automation and additional security.”
The Wi-Fi Water Sensor will be available from D-Link starting during the first quarter of 2019 for $50. Both the indoor and outdoor smart plugs will be available during the second quarter of 2019, but no price has been announced.
Few things ruin a quiet evening faster than a robot vacuum roaring through the living room. Most of us end up pausing the cleaning run, which defeats the whole purpose of owning one. Matic thinks it has the answer with its new Serene robot vacuum, and the big selling point is how little noise it makes.
The Matic Serene runs at 52 decibels even when cleaning at full power. To put that in perspective, Matic compares it to the hum of your refrigerator. It is available now for $1,695, which is $200 more than the original Matic’s current price.
Outdoor security cameras are not always practical if you live in an apartment or rental. Drilling into an exterior wall may be off-limits, while pointing a regular indoor camera through a window can create another problem once reflections start showing up after dark.
Baseus is trying to solve both issues with the new PrimeSentinel W1, a $69.99 security camera designed specifically to monitor the outdoors through glass. It mounts directly to a window without drilling and uses a 4K Starlight sensor with an F1.0 aperture for full-color monitoring during the day and at night.
This post is brought to you in paid partnership with Best Buy.
Technology evolves every day, transforming how we live and work. Our devices are becoming more than tools we use. They are increasingly capable companions that help streamline day-to-day routines and spark creative ideas. If you have been waiting for the right moment to upgrade your tech setup, the Discover Samsung Shopping Event offers an opportunity to explore what connected, AI-powered living can look like.