Here are some products that you can buy to get started.
Need help with installation or how to use these products? Setup, installation, and training is available in Eastern Iowa for Cedar Rapids, Iowa City, and surrounding areas. Contact us for more information.
Google Home Mini
Currently on sale at Target for $29. A very nice price for a Voice Assistant, Google Mini has almost the same features as the larger version. The speaker is smaller, of course, but it still recognizes up to six different voices and has all the great power of Google Assistant. The volume control is located on the sides by using touch. Tap the right side to increase the volume and the left side to lower the volume. The Google Home app will tell you more as features change.
Philips Hue Starter Pack
Philips Hue bulbs require a hub, so this is a perfect starter pack since it includes a hub with two light bulbs. $69.99
Works with Google Home, Amazon Echo Dot (see below), and Amazon Echo.
Google Home
One of the easiest to setup voice assistants. Works great with Philips Hue, Nest, and other products. It tends to have better search than Amazon’s Alexa, but it is a little more expensive than the Echo Dot (from Amazon) at $99. With advanced voice recognition, Google Home allows up to 6 different users.
Click to purchase Google Home from Best Buy
Amazon Echo Dot
An easy to install and setup voice assistant, Echo Dot is a small device with a basic speaker. If you want better sound quality, you should upgrade or have compatible speakers that the Dot can connect to. This device responds to “Alexa”. Combine with the Philips Hue starter pack above, and you can say “Alexa, turn on the living room lights.” (for example).
Echo Dot (2nd Generation) – Black
Echo Dot (2nd Generation) – White
Nest Learning Thermostat
Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home. Monitor and control your thermostat from anywhere (work, vacation home, etc.) using the Nest mobile app.
Nest Learning Thermostat 3rd Generation, Stainless Steel, Works with Amazon Alexa and Google Home
Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera
This outdoor security camera is built for the weather. It includes a 1080p camera, a microphone, and speaker which allows you to hear and speak through the Nest mobile app from work or wherever you are. Set security “zones” so you can get notifications when movement takes place outside.
Nest Cam Outdoor Security Camera
Nest Cam Indoor Security Camera
Use this indoor security camera to check on loved ones or get alerts for activity. It includes a 1080p camera, a microphone, and speaker which allows you to hear and speak through the Nest mobile app from work or wherever you are.
