Latest smart home gear, networking, AI assistants and security tips

This cluster tracks the rapid upgrade of smart homes in 2026, from indoor and floodlight security cameras and video doorbells to smart plugs, lighting, switches, timers and speakers. It highlights next-gen networking with new Wi‑Fi 7 mesh systems from TP-Link and Ubiquiti, plus major Google Home and Gemini AI features like improved voice control and camera ‘Live Search.’ Power users are doubling down on Home Assistant, HACS integrations, and low-cost ESP32 boards instead of Raspberry Pis, while guides focus on saving energy, reusing old tech, and hardening smart homes against cyberattacks. Together, these posts show a shift toward more capable, AI‑assisted, and security-conscious home automation setups.