Smart Tech Today #5 – Hearables: AirPods Pro & Echo Buds

On this episode of Smart Tech Today, Mikah and I talk about:

  • Smart home news: the Ember Mug 2, LIFX’s new candelabra bulb, Cortana reads emails now, the Tile tracker works with the Google Assistant and Alexa, and Samsung’s SmartThing’s platform gets offline automation support and a new Rules API.
  • Google news: Google (Alphabet) has officially acquired FitBit, the Google Home app gets a visual overhaul, and the Google Assistant gets Sirius XM support.
  • Security & privacy: Researchers used lasers to “speak” to Amazon Echo and Google Home devices from a distance.
  • Hearables: Matthew and Mikah review Amazon’s new Echo Buds and Apple’s new AirPods Pro.
  • Multi-voice recognition: Developers can now leverage Alexa Voice Profiles when developing Skills for Alexa-enabled devices. Matthew troubleshoots and explains HomePod’s new Handoff, Ambient Noise, and automation features.
  • Projects: Matthew dives deep into Shortcuts on HomePod and AirPods 2; Mikah waxes ecstatic about using motion sensors as part of his smart home setup.
  • Matthew’s pick: Mr. Christmas 7’ Alexa Compatible RGB LED Christmas Tree
  • Mikah’s pick: Beddr SleepTuner Sleep Monitor

Plus, here’s a set of Siri Shortcuts I created last week for subscribing and listening to the show:

We’ll be live next Monday at our usual 4pm PST – thanks for listening along so far!

Links for the show:

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