The big problem with Samsung and Nest Cameras, a new Chromecast, why you need an external SSD, and more

January 25, 2022

Video doorbells are arguably one of the best smart home products you can own. They let you see who is at the door even when you aren’t home. Or better yet, when you want to pretend not to be home, because it’s another random person trying to sell you some service you don’t need. And let’s not forget how nice it is to know when a package arrived after the UPS person chucked it to your doorstep from 30 paces away, without bothering to knock or ring the doorbell.

One of the better features of video doorbells is the ability to talk to someone through it, using your phone. You can talk to family, let a neighbor know the kids can’t come out to play, and more. At least, that’s all possible… if you aren’t using a Nest camera and a Samsung phone. Find out more in the top story.

Other Highlights:

• It looks like Ford underestimated how popular an EV pickup truck could be. Again.
• Can you believe it’s been two years since Google announced the Chromecast with Google TV? Now it looks like a new version is on the way.
• These new Philips Hue Outdoor Smart Lights look so pretty.
• …and more!

-Josh

Another day, another Nest bug. Customers are complaining that their Nest Doorbell and Nest Cam’s two-way audio feature, called “Talk and Listen,” isn’t working correctly with Samsung phones. While incoming audio works fine, outgoing audio is too quiet for visitors to understand. Read More »

If you’re shopping for computer peripherals, an external solid-state drive (SSD) probably isn’t at the top of your shopping list. While your PC or laptop will function without one, the benefits really outweigh the price, and a good external SSD should be a priority for everyone. Read More »

It’s been a few weeks since word-guessing game Wordle skyrocketed in popularity, but it’s still just as much fun to play the game as it is to share your results on Twitter or Facebook. As you share your score, however, you’ll want to make sure you do so without spoiling the winning word. Here’s how. Read More »

The exciting new 2022 Ford Maverick hybrid pickup truck is so affordable and popular that you can’t even order one anymore. It’s essentially sold out, as the company recently confirmed it has temporarily stopped accepting all orders for the truck — both hybrid and gas versions — until later this summer. Read More »

It’s time to add some brains to your outdoor lighting. Philips Hue just announced four new outdoor smart lighting products, including some colorful pathway lights and retro-styled smart lanterns. Read More »

Looking for an easy way to enjoy a cool breeze while walking on the treadmill or laying in your bed? Or perhaps you want to keep your baby cool in their crib, stroller, or car seat? With this flexible personal fan, it’s easy! You can easily attach it to most surfaces and position it just how you want it, thanks to the flexible design of its legs. It can also rotate horizontally and vertically and you can choose one of the three fan speeds. The fan features a 2600mAh rechargeable battery that can last anywhere from 2.5 to 10 hours depending on which speed you choose.

Get it at Amazon →

Google’s latest Chromecast dongle with Google TV is one of the smartest streaming sticks, but an upgraded model could be on the way soon. While Google has continued to improve its current offering, reports suggest a Chromecast Ultra type device with Google TV could be next. Read More »

Tech-savvy Wordle fans can now see in the future. I mean, not literally—they’ve just figured out how to predict tomorrow’s word of the day by digging through the Wordle source code. Unfortunately for us non-cheaters, a bot is spoiling tomorrow’s word of the day on Twitter. Read More »

Sony’s PlayStation Direct store makes it easy to get a PS5. You just register with PlayStation Direct, wait a few days or weeks for a restock invite email, and purchase your console. So, here’s when Sony will restock the PlayStation Direct store with PS5s, plus some info on how to sign up for the waiting list. Read More »

When you’re new to making espresso or other coffee-based drinks, words like “microfoam,” “frothing,” and “steaming” can get a bit confusing. If you love hot, foamy coffee drinks, but find the learning curve a bit steep, we can help. The first thing you need to know is the difference between frothed and steamed milk. Read More »

A classic cup of coffee is the way a lot of people start their mornings. According to TikTok, though, there’s a new coffee recipe that could help jump-start your morning routine even better. Read More »

TCL was the first TV manufacturer to introduce Mini LED TVs. And now the company’s latest innovation in the mini LED space is here: OD Zero Mini LED TVs. Here’s everything you need to know about it. Read More »

The first month of the year is coming to a close, but Netflix still has plenty to offer before it’s over. Read More »