Aqara Smart Video Doorbell G4 review: extra portion of flexibility

Aqara recently introduced the Curtain Driver E1, a device designed to automate traditional curtains and integrate them with HomeKit. This review examines the functionality, setup process, daily usage, and overall value of the Curtain Driver E1, alongside a related product, the Camera Hub G3. The Curtain Driver E1 operates by hooking onto curtain rods and using a motor to open or close curtains. It features Zigbee 3.0 connectivity and a 6,000mAh battery, which promises a 12-month battery life. Aqara has also indicated future support for Matter, aligning with broader smart home standards. Two versions of the device are available: a rod version for curtain poles and a track version for U-rails and I-rails. Users must select the appropriate variant for their specific curtain system. The driver is capable of handling curtains weighing up to 12kg, but it is crucial to verify compatibility with Aqara's detailed requirements, such as rod diameter (0.98-inches to 1.26-inches) and ensuring non-telescopic rods. For pairs of curtains, two separate Curtain Driver E1 units are necessary. Installation of the Curtain Driver E1 is straightforward. It involves mounting a rod hanger between curtain grommets, extending the driver's hooks via a button, attaching the motor to the hanger, and retracting the hooks to secure it. While the product includes curtain clips and a rubber strip, these components, intended to ensure uniform movement, were found to be cumbersome and aesthetically unappealing in testing, and omitting them did not significantly impact motor performance. Connecting the device to a network requires the Aqara app, where users can set open and closed positions. Multiple E1 units can be linked within the app for synchronized operation. Integration with Apple's Home app is achieved by scanning a HomeKit code on the device, allowing basic controls directly from the Home app, thereby reducing the need for the Aqara app for routine tasks. The Curtain Driver E1 necessitates an Aqara home hub. The review utilized the Camera Hub G3, which serves as a multi-functional HomeKit-enabled camera, eliminating the need for a separate hub connected to a router. The Camera Hub G3 functions as a Zigbee 3.0 hub, supporting up to 128 sub-devices and dual-band Wi-Fi. Its camera features include 2K resolution, 20 FPS playback, two-way audio, an infrared blaster, 360° pan and tilt, AI gesture and facial recognition, a privacy mode, and local storage. The camera performed well in various lighting conditions, and its motor operation for pan and tilt was smooth and quiet, although tilt responsiveness sometimes lagged. While native Home app support for pan and tilt is absent, configurations made in the Aqara app seamlessly reflect in Apple’s Home app. The G3 hub is also slated to receive Matter support later in the year, although Matter will not initially support cameras. In daily use, the Curtain Driver E1 provided quick and generally reliable curtain operation. Its substantial weight and bulky design, attributed to the large internal battery, are concealed behind the curtains. The device charges conveniently via USB-C. The Aqara app offers granular control, including options to reduce motor noise by slowing speed and to simulate natural sunrises. The Home app provides essential functions such as opening, closing, battery level checks, and obstruction alerts. Manual control is possible by pressing buttons or gently tugging the curtain. However, for longer curtains, the bottom half may drag, preventing full closure. Curtains on rods with central supports may also leave a gap, affecting light blockage. The Curtain Driver E1 includes a built-in ambient light sensor for automations within the Aqara app, allowing curtains to open or close based on light thresholds (e.g., “weak ambient light” or “strong ambient light”). This sensor is not exposed to HomeKit, requiring external sensors for precise HomeKit light automations. The system supports scheduled automations, local weather integration, and geofencing. The Camera Hub G3 enables gesture control for the curtains, provided the user is within the camera's field of view. The Curtain Driver E1 can also be paired with other accessories, such as the Aqara Motion Sensor P1, for advanced automations like opening curtains upon room entry or reaching specific light levels. The Motion Sensor P1 offers adjustable sensitivity, a wide field of view, and future Matter support. Overall, the Curtain Driver E1 justifies its price with its large battery, USB-C charging, robust build, and diverse control options, despite potentially becoming costly for multiple curtains and requiring an Aqara hub. While it may not fully match the capabilities of more expensive, dedicated motorized rails, it presents a compelling solution for retrofitting existing curtains with HomeKit automation, particularly for users with single curtains or existing Aqara devices, provided they are prepared for minor setup and compatibility considerations. The Camera Hub G3 is highly recommended for its extensive features, high image quality, and object tracking capabilities, serving as an excellent hub and smart home camera. #AqaraCurtainDriver #HomeKitAutomation #SmartHomeTech #HomeAutomation #Zigbee3.0 #MatterSupport #CameraHubG3 #SmartCurtains #AppleHomeKit

The ongoing coronavirus pandemic has heightened awareness about hygiene, particularly regarding frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to install a hands-free entry system for your front door, combining a push-to-open doorknob with a smart lock that features automatic locking and unlocking capabilities. This setup allows individuals to enter their homes without making physical contact with the doorknob, thereby reducing germ transmission. The first step involves selecting a suitable push-to-open doorknob. The Brink’s Push Pull Rotate is recommended, as it is widely available and compatible with various smart locks. It comes in different configurations, including round, lever, and decorative handlesets, ranging in price from $20 to $160. The choice depends on personal style and finish preferences, as all versions can integrate with a smart lock. Next, choosing the right smart lock is crucial. The market offers two main types: regular and retrofit. Regular smart locks necessitate replacing the entire existing lock, including the deadbolt. In contrast, retrofit smart locks allow the existing deadbolt to remain in place, making installation generally easier. However, retrofit smart locks are exclusively compatible with deadbolts, not mortise locks, which are typically found in most residential homes. Consumer Reports' testing highlights the August Smart Lock + Connect ($200) and August Smart Lock Pro + Connect ($280) as high-performing retrofit models. These locks received excellent ratings for ease of setup and connectivity. The Pro model offers additional compatibility with Apple HomeKit and Z-Wave smart home hubs. For those preferring to replace the entire lock, the Yale Assure YRD256 Connected by August ($300) is a viable option. These smart locks are controlled via the August smartphone app and incorporate auto-unlock features that sense the proximity of a smartphone to unlock the door, along with door sensors to indicate if the door is left open. The installation process begins with the doorknob. This involves removing the old doorknob by unscrewing the rose and detaching both knobs. The new Brink’s Push Pull Rotate knob or handleset is then installed according to its instructions. Key considerations during this step include accurately measuring the door's width (typically 1 ⅜ or 1 ¾ inches) and the backset of the knob hole (distance from door edge to hole center). These measurements determine the correct retractor and latch to use, ensuring proper fit and function. The latch's sloping face must point towards the strike plate for effective closure. Following the doorknob, the smart lock is installed. For August retrofit smart locks, this entails removing the existing deadbolt's thumb turn and mounting plate. The retrofit smart lock’s mounting plate is then screwed into place, with an adapter attached to the deadbolt's rod. The smart lock unit is then secured onto this adapter. Precision is important during this step; for elongated smart locks like the August models, using a level to ensure the lock is perfectly straight is essential for smooth deadbolt operation. An additional recommendation for enhanced security is to replace the standard strike plate with a box strike plate, fastened with 3-inch screws, which significantly improves resistance against forced entry. The final step involves configuring the smart lock's features via its smartphone app. After downloading the app, creating an account, and setting up the lock, the auto-lock and auto-unlock function should be enabled. This feature utilizes Bluetooth and the phone’s location services to automatically unlock the door upon arrival and lock it upon departure, requiring only the phone to be present. Further customization, such as setting a timed automatic lock after a few minutes, is also possible. With both the push-to-open doorknob and smart lock installed and configured, the front door can be opened hands-free, enhancing convenience and hygiene. Two recommended retrofit smart locks from CR's tests are the August Smart Lock + Connect and the August Smart Lock Pro + Connect, with the Yale Assure YRD256 Connected by August also mentioned for full lock replacement scenarios. #SmartHome #DoorSecurity #HomeImprovement #HandsFreeEntry #SmartLocks #HomeHygiene #DIYInstallation #ConsumerReports

The Genie Aladdin Connect is a smart device designed to convert an existing garage door opener into a remotely controllable and monitorable system. This gadget allows users to open or close their garage door from anywhere using a smartphone app and receive real-time alerts when the door is opened. The Aladdin Connect is compatible with garage door openers manufactured after 1993 and can also integrate with Amazon's Alexa for voice control. The primary benefit of this system is enhanced convenience and security for homeowners, particularly regarding package deliveries and home access. Installation of the Genie Aladdin Connect is presented as a DIY project, estimated to take about an hour. The article notes that while the process requires five basic tools (two screwdrivers, a drill, hammer, and wire cutter), an 18-minute instructional video is available within the Aladdin Connect app to guide users through each step. Despite the straightforward instructions, the article suggests that some users might prefer hiring an electrician to ensure proper installation and avoid potential hassle. Beyond basic opening and closing, the Aladdin Connect offers several practical advantages. It eliminates concerns about being locked out of the home, provided the user has their phone. More significantly, it enables remote access management, allowing users to grant temporary or permanent access to friends, repair personnel, or dog walkers from any location. This feature is particularly useful for facilitating secure package deliveries directly into the garage, protecting them from theft or weather damage. The system's alert function notifies the homeowner whenever the garage door is activated, providing an immediate heads-up about any unauthorized or unexpected access. The article also touches upon potential drawbacks. While the installation is described as generally easy, it may not be enjoyable for everyone, and glitches with the app have been reported by some users, which could lead to temporary lockouts. Therefore, it is advised not to abandon physical keys or buttons entirely. A comparative product, the MyQ Smart Garage Door Opener from Chamberlain, is mentioned as a slightly cheaper alternative with similar features, including optional Google Assistant integration. However, the MyQ system has received mixed reviews, with a common complaint about difficulties in pairing devices with phones. In conclusion, the Genie Aladdin Connect is presented as a valuable investment despite minor installation challenges and its price point being higher than some alternatives. Its core value lies in providing remote control and real-time monitoring capabilities for a garage door, significantly improving home security and convenience. The ability to manage access for others and receive instant alerts about door activity enhances peace of mind for homeowners. The compatibility with voice assistants like Alexa further adds to its smart home integration appeal. #SmartHome #GarageDoorOpener #HomeSecurity #RemoteAccess #SmartGadget #DIYInstallation #TechReview

The Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera is presented as a smart outdoor security solution combining a floodlight and a camera. This latest addition to Blink's security camera lineup aims to provide 24/7 home surveillance with enhanced features over its predecessor, the Blink Outdoor 3. The device features 700 lumens of motion-activated illumination and delivers clear 1080p HD video resolution. It is controlled via the Blink app, available for iOS and Android, and includes functionalities like two-way talk, improved motion detection, and person detection, which leverages embedded computer vision. A significant upgrade is its wide field of view (FOV) of 143 degrees, a considerable increase from the Outdoor 3's 110 FOV. The camera offers color night vision when its lights are active, transitioning to clear black and white video when the lights are off. Designed to be weather-resistant, it can withstand diverse environmental conditions. For video storage, users receive a 30-day free trial of the Blink Subscription Plan, allowing for saving and sharing captured clips. Post-trial, users can opt for a Basic plan at $3/month or $30/year for one device, or a Basic Plus plan at $10/month or $100/year for unlimited cameras. Alternatively, local storage is available with a Sync Module 2 (included) and a separate USB drive, a feature highlighted for its cost-effectiveness compared to subscription models. Installation is described as straightforward and wire-free due to its battery operation. The package includes the Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera, a Sync Module 2, batteries (AA lithium metal and D Cell), a mounting kit, power adapter, and USB cable. The guide emphasizes performing the initial camera setup and Wi-Fi connection indoors before mounting to simplify the process. Tips for installation include ensuring a strong Wi-Fi signal at the mounting location and choosing a sturdy surface like brick, concrete, or robust ceiling materials. Regarding smart home integration, the Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera is compatible with Amazon Alexa-enabled devices, allowing for voice commands to arm/disarm the camera, turn on lights, and stream live video on Echo smart displays or Alexa-integrated smart TVs. It also supports Alexa routines. However, it lacks compatibility with Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings, and Apple HomeKit. For users with professional smart home systems like Control4 or Crestron, integration is possible by providing the camera's IP address and Blink account credentials, enabling control via the system's app and voice commands if Alexa is also connected. This integration allows for actions such as arming/disarming, light control, live video viewing, motion/sound notifications, and automation creation. The product is priced at $159.98, with a holiday sale price of $95.99 at the time of review. Individual cameras and mounts are also available at discounted rates. Performance testing revealed an easier setup than the Outdoor 3. Video quality is noted as good, maintaining clarity even when zoomed. While color night vision with lights on is clear, black and white night vision with lights off is described as somewhat grainy. The 143-degree FOV is praised for being larger than competitors like Ring's Floodlight Cam (140 degrees) and Google Nest Camera with Floodlight (130 degrees). A drawback noted is the floodlight's brightness, which at 700 lumens, is less powerful than some rivals, such as the Lorex 2K Wired Floodlight Security Camera (2400 lumens). Motion detection, including customizable zones and person detection (requiring a subscription), performed effectively. The camera's battery life is advertised as up to two years. The ability to store videos locally via the Sync Module 2 and a USB drive is highlighted as a significant advantage. In summary, the Blink Outdoor 4 Floodlight Camera is presented as a strong option for DIY smart home security, particularly for Amazon Alexa users seeking an affordable outdoor floodlight camera. Despite minor limitations like grainy black and white night vision, the need for a subscription for person detection, moderate floodlight brightness, and limited smart home integrations, its competitive price, expansive FOV, local video storage option, and customizable motion detection make it a reliable and user-friendly choice for securing the home's exterior. #BlinkOutdoor4FloodlightCamera #SmartHomeSecurity #OutdoorCamera #FloodlightCamera #AmazonAlexa #HomeSurveillance #MotionDetection #WirelessCamera #DIYSmartHome

The Yale Assure Lock SL Connected by August is presented as a comprehensive smart lock solution, offering various unlocking methods including PIN codes via a touchscreen, single-tap app control, and voice commands through Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple's Siri. The lock also supports up to 250 guest codes, making it suitable for a range of users from homeowners to Airbnb hosts. While the article highlights its advanced features, it also points out potential complexities in its setup process. Yale, a brand under Assa Abloy, acquired August in late 2017. This collaboration resulted in smart locks like the Assure YRD256 and YRD226, which integrate Yale's traditional lock designs with August's Connected by August Kit. The YRD256 model, which is keyless, is priced at $299, while the YRD226, offering a physical key option, costs $279. The lock can be purchased in several configurations: a standalone version without wireless functionality (with 25 guest codes), a version with the iM1 Network Module for local wireless control, a separate Connected By August kit to add remote control to an existing Assure lock, or the complete bundle that is the subject of this review. Additionally, bundles with Amazon cameras are available for enhanced Amazon Key functionalities. The bundled package includes the physical Yale Assure Lock SL YRD256, the Network Module (iM1) for local smart home connectivity (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Apple HomeKit/Siri, Amazon Alexa, Amazon Key, Google Assistant, Samsung SmartThings), and a separate Connected by August Wi-Fi bridge for remote access and control. The review emphasizes that each of these components requires separate installation, which can complicate the initial setup. The physical lock installation is described as straightforward, with both a paper manual and a helpful BILT app-based 3D guide. However, installing the iM1 Network Module and connecting it to the August app and Wi-Fi bridge is less intuitive, with critical instructions for selecting the correct device within the August app being unclear. The August app, once navigated correctly, facilitates the setup of the DoorSense sensor, which monitors the door's open/closed status. The app also guides users through connecting to their Wi-Fi network and integrating with various smart home ecosystems. For example, the setup process seamlessly incorporates HomeKit and Siri control, and Amazon Alexa integration was also successful. However, the Google Home integration presented difficulties, as the app did not provide clear instructions for existing Google Assistant users, and the Google Home app failed to detect the lock. The August app's interface clearly displays the lock's status (locked, unlocked, open, closed) and allows for customizable Smart Alerts, as well as Auto Lock and Auto Unlock features based on geo-fencing. In operation, the Yale Assure Lock SL Connected by August generally performs reliably, with consistent voice command responses from Siri and Alexa, and effective auto-lock/unlock functions. The reviewer notes a personal preference for smart locks that include a physical key option, citing potential technology failures, and points out the YRD226 (keyed version) is paradoxically less expensive than the YRD256 (keyless). The article concludes by recommending that Yale and August improve the installation instructions and app experience for a more streamlined setup, despite the overall effectiveness of the combined product. #SmartLock #HomeSecurity #YaleAssureLock #AugustConnect #SmartHomeIntegration #VoiceControl #WiFiBridge #DoorSense #IoT