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Google Lines up for the Smart Home Competition – Here’s What’s New
Google really knows how to make an entrance on any market – be it already established or emerging.
Don’t forget that the search engine industry was already in full swing when Google first launched, yet now they’re the number one search engine in the world.
Maybe this is actually the aspect Google is counting on to get ahead of Amazon in the smart home industry. They’ve studied the market and know what it needs.
Still, they have a lot of catching up to do, though.
That’s because Amazon released their Echo speaker two years ago. It has quickly become a popular device and users adopted it with ease. Alexa, the assistant integrated within the Amazon Echo, can:
- Play almost any song you request (even by genre)
- Control smart appliances (lights, thermostat)
- Answer your questions (“How’s the weather?” “What time is it?”)
- Connect to and control many other types of smart devices
However, on the 4th of October, Google became Amazon’s competition. Well, with this article, we aim to help you learn more about Google’s smart home devices and how they plan to take on Alexa.
Is There a Difference between Google Home and Amazon Echo?
At first glance, both devices seem awfully similar.
Google’s freshly launched automated home device has an integrated voice assistant – just like the Echo. They both recognise natural speech and are activated by a particular phrase:
- “Alexa” for the Amazon Echo
- “OK, Google” for Google Home
However, you should keep in mind that Google has a lot more data at its disposal. A history of voice samples and oral commands is stored in each user’s Google account.
Plus, back in 2015, there were around 1.4 billion mobile Android devices in use. Even if only 10% of those users relied on vocal commands, the data Google gathered was still extremely useful.
Why? Because it facilitated the development of accurate speech recognition software.
Additionally, both Echo and Google Home devices rely on artificial intelligence. However, that’s also what sets both devices apart. How? Well, here’s what you need to know.
Google’s Smart Home Device Only Offers a Few Interesting Features for Now
As mentioned before, Google Home can recognise voice commands like Amazon Echo. Still, the key difference is in the artificial intelligence software behind them.
For the Echo device, the users need to repeat “Alexa” every time they want to launch a command. However, the voice assistant could sometimes return a negative response. In that case, users need to keep repeating the phrase quite often, which can get tiring.
That’s not the case with Google’s smart home device. To activate the voice command, you need to speak the phrase “OK, Google”. But you don’t need to repeat it for every follow-up question you have.
Additionally, Google’s integrated assistant can answer rather complex questions.
That has been achieved through the use of an advanced neural network capable of learning. A vast network of servers analyses vocal spectrograms (visual representations of a signal’s “loudness”) and tries to predict new patterns – like a human brain does.
Another thing that only Google Home can do is connect to video devices. And the new Chromecast Ultra has just been launched by Google to outline this feature. Granted, Amazon can match this by using their Fire TV devices.
Availability, Prices, and Conclusions
Well, Amazon’s Echo is now available in the UK. The device was officially launched on the 28th of September. It costs about £150.
Sadly, Google’s smart home device doesn’t yet have a release date for the UK. Still, there is some speculation that at least the price will be lower. The device will be available in US stores starting with the 4th of November.
It is safe to assume that Amazon is the better option at the moment. Its Echo speaker can connect to many smart home devices:
- Smart lights
- Smart locks
- Smart hubs
- Overall entertainment
On the other hand, Google Home announced integration with only a few devices for now.
In the end, we’ll just have to wait and see what features are added and what other companies partner up with Google. Who knows, they just might end up providing us with better smart home technology in the long run.
Lockrite is a team of expert locksmiths with a keen interest in bringing you the latest in automated home technology and security. Here are some of the professional services we provide.
For more information about automated homes, feel free to browse through our blog.
3 Ways to Enhance Your Home Security This Winter
Most people see winter as the right time of the year to spend more time with their loved ones. Unfortunately, many burglars actually view winter as an opportunity to target homeowners.
According to statistics from 2015, there are 24% more burglary attempts that occur in the winter compared to the summer months.
Why? It’s because burglars think they can exploit home security systems under the guise of darkness.
After all, it’s hardly a secret that thieves always take the easiest route. And the limited daylight during winter can give them an added incentive.
Plus, most burglars also know that many homeowners will be gone on holiday or visiting their relatives. As such, they are willing to take bigger risks.
Well, we care about your safety. That’s why we want to offer you three suggestions on how to enhance your home security this winter:
1. Don’t Let the Snow Pile Up
We recommend doing this for both your home’s roof and its yard. Winter upkeep might not be an activity you’ll love, but it will pay off.
Otherwise, snow will keep piling up, and it will make it seem as if nobody’s ever home.
In turn, that will just give thieves the motivation they need to target your house. Why? Because, in their mind, a house that seems vacant is an easier target.
In case you’ll be out of town for some time, you can always ask one of your neighbours to shovel some of the snow.
2. Get Quality Motion-Sensor Lights to Improve Your Home Security
Remember what we said about the lack of daylight during winter favouring burglars? Well, there’s a way to combat this problem: Motion-sensor lights.
Have them installed on all exterior walls of your home, and it might help prevent thieves from taking you by surprise.
Let’s face it: Most home invaders will most likely run away at the first sign that indicates they’ve been discovered. That’s why an exterior light suddenly turning on can instantly make your home less of an attractive target.
3. Make Sure Your Locks Are Up-to-Date
There is a 72% chance that a burglar would try to enter your home through a door. That’s exactly why you must ensure you never leave your door unlocked – not even when you’re home.
Actually, you should consider looking into getting smart locks if you haven’t already. They are far more reliable than a standard lock. Here’s why:
- You can use your smartphone, a key fob, or a PIN code to open them. Thus, you won’t have to worry about burglars stealing and using your keys.
- You can set a 24-hour PIN code.
- You will have peace of mind knowing that your home is safe.
- Our smart locks are powered by batteries, so you have nothing to worry about in the case of a power outage.
- Also, our smart locks are compatible with the most popular types of doors (PVCu, Timber, and Composite)
As a last friendly reminder, note that your garage doors need to be secured with quality locks too.
With all that in mind, you’ll be able to truly enjoy the holidays and the winter season. In case you’d like to know more about home security in general, be sure to check out our other articles.
Remember to also follow us on Facebook and Twitter to get the latest news and tips about smart security.
The Smart Home vs. the Regular Home: Advantages to Consider
The smart home first surfaced as just a mere idea. Humanity has experienced it through their imagination, thanks to science fiction authors. Nowadays, this kind of thing is actually a reality. Of course, there’s still a long road ahead of us.
However, humanity has reached significant milestones and the technology available today is impressive. It’s slowly making our lives easier and less complicated.
If you are new to this subject, then you’ll want to hear why a smart home is a better choice than a regular one.
Smart Technology Makes Homes Sustainable
Over the last years, smart devices became cheaper and easier to manufacture. As a result, more and more people can afford to buy them.
Moreover, new algorithms and software are being developed to take advantage of the hardware that is being used.
So what does that mean for the average homeowner? Basically, smart homes have become autonomous and energy-efficient.
The latest smart devices you can outfit your home with are constantly interconnected. They monitor many things, and can be optimised to reduce energy waste.
For example, you can control your home temperature even from work. In turn, that can help you lower your energy bills in the long run.
You Enjoy Improved Security and Comfort
Humanity develops new technology to improve life conditions. And safety and comfort are some of the most pressing basic needs every person is looking to satisfy.
A smart home features a sophisticated suite of sensors that continuously monitors every room and the premises. These sensors can be connected to an advanced surveillance system. That can even allow you to enjoy remote monitoring and control.
Plus, all this security comes with convenience. For instance, let’s say you’ve already left for work and can’t remember if you locked the door.
If you have the right smart lock, all you need to do is open the dedicated app on your phone to handle this. It’s as simple as that.
Personal comfort is also taken into account thanks to the development of vocal commands.
Smart home devices such as the Amazon Echo offer you just that. For example, this device is outfitted with a complex artificial intelligence assistant – Alexa – which is capable of understanding and fulfilling vocal tasks.
Do you want to adjust the temperature in your house? Have to turn off the lights? Need to change the channel or switch your TV to Netflix? Just say so, and the device will handle it for you.
A Smart Home Offers You Peace of Mind
Smart home devices can make your life easier. You’ll even get to enjoy the benefits when you’re not at home.
For example, let’s say there’s a gas or CO leak in your home. Well, smart sensors can detect it. You’ll instantly get notified, so you can address the issue before it turns into a serious problem.
Here’s another situation: You’re on holiday and you want to check up on your home’s security. Having a smart monitoring system means you can monitor it just by using your phone or a laptop.
Lastly, a smart home also lets you relax. Thanks to it, you can check on the kids to see if they left for school and remembered to lock the door or turn off the lights. If they didn’t, you can just take care of it with a few clicks or taps.
So, as you can see, automating your home is a far better option than just settling for an average house.
Lockrite combines experience and professional locksmithing services with state-of-the-art technology. On our blog, you’ll regularly find new information about the smart home.
We’ve also created a useful infographic about this topic for those of you who want to learn even more.
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Locksmith Services
If you’re locked out, we can get you back in! We’re experts at picking locks and gaining entry.
We change, repair and fit a wide variety of locks, including : Mortice Locks & Euro Cylinders.
Our expert locksmiths can supply and fit the latest digital smart locks. Including the Yale Linus.
Our trained locksmiths can supply and fit the latest High definition CCTV to your home or business premises.
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We offer a full security survey service. Do you really know how secure your home or property is?
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Smart Security Installed
Yale Linus
Smart Lock
The Yale Linus door lock. A keyless lock, designed to secure and simplify your life. Lock and unlock your door, no matter where you are.
Yale Conexis
Smart Lock
The smart door lock that puts you fully in control. The Yale Conexis gives you the freedom to secure your home without the need for a key.
Yale Keyless
Connected Smart Lock
The Keyless Lock allows you complete control over how you lock your home. Unlock with a PIN, key card, key tag, remote fob or your phone.
Yale Sync Alarm
The Yale Linus door lock. A keyless lock, designed to secure and simplify your life. Lock and unlock your door, no matter where you are.
Yale CCTV
The smart door lock that puts you fully in control. The Yale Conexis gives you the freedom to secure your home without the need for a key.
