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Jon Bitner

Jon Bitner

Jon Bitner is a writer covering consumer electronics, technology, and gaming. His work has been published on various websites beyond Digital Trends, including The Wall Street Journal, Metacritic, GameSpot, and Slickdeals. He holds a degree in Biology and previously worked as a Medical Editor.

When not playing video games, he can be found running, reading, or checking out the latest series on Netflix.

Nanoleaf Essentials A19 3-Pack of bulbs in living room.

How to reset Nanoleaf Essentials Smart Bulbs

Here's how to reset the Nanoleaf Essentials Smart Bulb, along with a few troubleshooting tips to try first.

How to delete Arlo Activity Zones

You can delete an Arlo Activity Zone using either the smartphone app or the official Arlo website. Here's a closer look at what you'll need to do.
The Arlo Essential 2nd Gen mounted outside.

How to cancel your Arlo subscription

If you're looking to cancel your Arlo subscription, you'll have to go to the official Arlo website, as the smartphone app doesn't support this ability.
The interface on Google Home allowing you to capture custom clips.

Google Home adds new camera features and support for Nest Cam Outdoor

Public Preview users can now link their first-generation Nest Cam Outdoor to Google Home and access a couple new features across a variety of cameras.
iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ smart vacuum and mop near kids and pets

How to clean the bin and filter on the Roomba Combo j9+

Cleaning the bin and filter on the iRobot Roomba Combo j9+ is an important part of regular maintenance. Here's a comprehensive look at what it entails.
The upcoming Ikea motion sensor and door sensor on a yellow desktop.

Ikea launching 3 new smart home safety gadgets in 2024

Ikea is releasing a motion sensor, water sensor, and door and window sensor in 2024. Here's a look at what to expect when they roll out in the coming months.
The Wyze Cam Floodlight security camera outdoors.

How to properly place security cameras around your home

Security cameras are huge crime deterrents, but correct security camera placement is key. Cameras should be placed for maximum view and protection from thieves.
The Arlo Pro 5S installed outside on a wall.

Why is my Arlo camera offline?

Trying to figure out why your Arlo camera is offline? There are several possible culprits to consider. Here's how to fix the issue.
Tech of the Week Ring Grinch

Bring the Grinch to your front door with new Ring Quick Replies

Ring is adding several Quick Replies to its video doorbells, all of which are inspired by The Grinch. Here's a look at all six dialogue options.
The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (Gen 2) with the Privacy Shield enabled.

Arlo Essential Indoor Camera Gen 1 vs. Arlo Essential Indoor Camera Gen 2

The updated Arlo Essential Indoor Camera offers a few perks not found on its predecessor, but should you replace your existing cameras? Here's what to know.
The Arlo Essential Indoor Camera (Gen 2) with the Privacy Shield enabled.

How to use the Privacy Shield on Arlo cameras

Many Arlo cameras use a Privacy Shield to physically block the lens from capturing footage. Here's how to activate and deactivate the useful feature.
bring the grinch to your front door with new ring quick replies totw doorbell feature

Bring the Grinch to your front door with new Ring Quick Replies

Sponsored
Ring is adding several Quick Replies to its video doorbells, all of which are inspired by The Grinch. Here's a look at all six dialogue options.
An Amazon smart display on a kitchen counter.

Alexa adds new features to help with your holiday shopping

Amazon is rolling out new features to Alexa, allowing you to scan handwritten shopping lists to the app and get instant access to the best deals.
Amazon Fire TV on Echo Show 15.

The 11 best smart home products that support Matter

Many smart home products will be adding Matter support in the future, but only a few notable products offer support today. Here are the best ones available now.
The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro on display the 2023 Amazon Fall Devices and Services event.

Tapo C120 vs. Ring Stick Up Cam Pro: is the expensive Ring security camera worth it?

The Tapo C120 is a budget-friendly security camera suitable for use in all environments. But does it outcompete the premium and pricier Ring Stick Up Cam Pro?
Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera

How to add Arlo cameras to Apple HomeKit

It's possible to add Arlo cameras to Apple HomeKit, though there are a few quirks to keep in mind. Here's how the process works.
Astro for Business in patrol mode.

Amazon Astro gets a day job with Astro for Business

Astro for Business is designed to help keep small businesses safe and shares many similarities with Amazon Astro. Here's a look at the newly released robot.
The Tapo C120 installed on a fence.

The TP-Link Tapo C120 is an affordable security camera designed for all environments

The TP-Link Tapo C120 costs $40, offers 2K video capture, and supports microSD cards. Here's a closer look at the indoor/outdoor camera.
The Arlo Total Security package on a blue background.

Arlo enhances home security offerings with new Arlo Total Security plans

The Arlo Total Security plans are all-in-one solutions for home security, offering professional monitoring and required hardware for as low as $10 per month.
The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 installed near a door.

Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen vs. Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2

The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 is a powerful smart home gadget, but how does it compare to the new Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen? Here's what you need to know.
A person holding the SwitchBot K10+ robot vacuum.

The SwitchBot Mini Robot Vacuum K10+ is designed for cramped rooms and tight spaces

The SwitchBot Mini Robot Vacuum K10+ might not be as large as the competition, but it's not lacking in premium features. Here's a look at the quirky robot.
The Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen in the rain.

Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen vs. Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell: Which is best?

The new Arlo Video Doorbell 2nd Gen is available in two formats, but is either one better than the existing Arlo Essential Wireless Video Doorbell?
The Arlo Essential 2nd Gen mounted outside.

Arlo Essential 2nd Gen vs. Arlo Pro 4: is the Arlo Pro 4 worth it?

The Arlo Essential 2nd Gen Camera is a new addition to the Arlo catalog, but is it better than the existing Arlo Pro 4? Here's a closer look.
The Emporia Smart Plug with a cable attached.

Emporia resolves issue with Smart Plugs that spurred recall

A voluntary recall impacts a large portion of Emporia Smart Plugs, though there are currently no known injuries or damage caused by faulty products.
Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight Camera

Arlo Essential XL 2nd Gen vs. Arlo Pro 4: Which is the better security camera?

The new Arlo Essential XL 2nd Gen offers incredible battery life, but is it better than the Arlo Pro 4? Here's a look at both to help you decide.
The Wyze Video Doorbell v2 installed near a front door.

Wyze Video Doorbell v2 vs. Wyze Video Doorbell Pro

The new Wyze Video Doorbell v2 is much cheaper than the Wyze Video Doorbell Pro, but is it actually a better product? Here's a closer look at both.
Several Ecobee security products on a green background.

Is an Ecobee Smart Security subscription worth it?

Ecobee offers two different plans for its security systems. But which one is best for your home? Here's a look at both to help you decide.
Apple HomePod 2023

Echo Pop vs. HomePod (Gen 2): is the HomePod worth its added cost?

Is the expensive Apple HomePod worth your money, or should you stick with the affordable Echo Pop? Here's a look at these two smart speakers to help you decide.
A blue Echo Pop sitting on a table.

Echo Pop vs. HomePod mini: which is the best smart speaker?

The Echo Pop is a great smart speaker for its price, but how does it compare to the premium HomePod mini? Here's a look at both to help guide your purchase.
iRobot Roomba i3+ (3550) Robot Vacuum and Braava jet m6 (6113) Robot Mop bundle showing all three major elements in a hallway.

Cordless vs. robot vacuums: which one should you buy?

Choosing between a cordless vacuum and robot vacuum isn't an easy decision. Here's a look at the advantages of both types of products to help you decide.
The Ring Outdoor Smart Plug installed outside.

Can smart plugs be used outside?

Smart plugs are a great way to control exterior lights and decorations, but not all of them can be used outside. Here's what to know before using them outdoors.
iRobot Roomba j7 plus 7550 robot vacuum in charging dock by entryway.

How often should you replace your robot vacuum?

Robot vacuums are designed to last for several years, though their longevity relies on regular maintenance. Here's how often you should think about upgrading.
The Wyze Video Doorbell v2 installed near a front door.

New Wyze Video Doorbell v2 offers microSD card slot, 2K resolution for just $40

The Wyze Video Doorbell v2 is a big improvement over its predecessor, offering a microSD slot, 2K video capture, and a budget-friendly price.
A stylized version of a smart home with various rooms containing smart home gadgets.

Matter adds support for fridges, air purifiers, robot vacuums, and more with massive 1.2 update

The Matter 1.2 update is now available, bringing the interoperability standard to nine new device types -- including robot vacuums, air purifiers, and more.