Google TV's Gemini is receiving a major update that enhances its AI capabilities with visual and interactive features like Nano Banana and Veo for creating AI-generated videos and images, along with improved voice control for adjusting settings through simple commands. The update aims to make the AI more helpful and engaging, initially rolling out to select TCL models before expanding to other devices.
Samsung's latest update to its Family Hub smart fridge introduces voice-activated door control using Bixby, allowing users to open or close the door with voice commands or a tap, enhancing convenience and accessibility. The update also improves food recognition with Google’s LLM-powered AI Vision, aiding meal planning and reducing food waste.
Govee's new Smart Plug Outlet Extender, available for preorder at $32.99, offers voice control via Alexa and Google Assistant, scheduled lighting, and a nightlight feature, while securely attaching to standard outlets and providing additional USB ports, with a launch expected on October 31, 2025.
Microsoft is integrating advanced AI features into Windows 11, including voice commands and visual recognition, aiming to transform PCs into AI-powered assistants that users can talk to and have perform actions on their behalf, marking a significant shift towards an AI-centric operating system experience.
The article reviews Amazon's Alexa+ feature, available through new Echo devices and early access, highlighting its improved conversational abilities, personalized reminders, playlist creation, news briefing, and upcoming features like Omnisense sensors and expanded smart home integration, making it a promising upgrade for smart home enthusiasts and Alexa users.
Google is expanding its Gemini AI assistant to Google TV, enabling natural language conversations on over 300 million devices, with uses ranging from entertainment suggestions to educational help, while maintaining existing Google Assistant functionalities.
Lepro unveils the AI Lighting Pro series at IFA 2025, featuring stylish lights with built-in microphones and AI that interpret voice commands to adjust lighting based on scenarios like parties or romantic dinners, all without needing external hubs or smart speakers.
The article highlights the convenience and versatility of using Kasa smart plugs, which allow users to control appliances and devices remotely via app or voice commands, enhancing home automation, safety, and energy efficiency. The author shares personal benefits and easy setup tips, emphasizing how these small devices can significantly improve daily life.
Apple is testing a new version of Siri that will allow users to operate apps and perform actions across various services using only voice commands, with plans for a broader release expected in spring 2026.
Apple is developing a new voice-control feature for Siri, expected to be part of iOS 26, with potential to enhance user interaction if successful. The company is also making minor supply-chain adjustments to placate political concerns, working on Liquid Glass 1.0, and has seen a key AI engineer leave for Meta. Additionally, Apple is creating a simplified ChatGPT-like AI focused on global knowledge.
Google Home users experienced issues controlling lights via voice commands, particularly in controlling specific lights or rooms. Google has acknowledged the problem and is rolling out a fix, although some users may still encounter issues during the update.
After 24 hours with Alexa Plus, the author finds it to be a significant upgrade with improved conversational abilities and smart home integration, though it still has some flaws like occasional inaccuracies and interface issues. The new AI offers more natural interactions and better control over smart devices, but some features are still in early access and require further testing.
Apple is planning a significant AI update for Siri in iOS 18, enabling voice control over specific iPhone app features. Initially limited to Apple apps, Siri will support hundreds of commands and eventually handle multiple tasks in a single request. The update will process simpler commands on-device and more complex ones via the cloud, with a focus on security. Expected to be showcased at WWDC on June 10th, the new Siri will also bring AI transcription to Voice Memos and Notes.
Apple is planning a major update to Siri in iOS 18, enabling users to control individual app functions with their voice through advanced AI and large language models, marking a significant step in Apple's AI initiatives.
Home Assistant, a DIY home automation platform, has made significant progress in local voice control, allowing users to manage smart home devices with voice commands. While it has limitations compared to mainstream voice assistants like Alexa and Google, such as a limited verb set and hardware compatibility issues, it offers privacy-minded, locally run voice control. The platform's founder acknowledges the need for improvements in audio input, error handling, language support, and hardware compatibility. Despite these challenges, Home Assistant has made impressive strides and continues to evolve towards its end goal of providing a viable alternative to mainstream voice assistants.
