Smart home gadgets are no longer for the rich and virtual assistant technology is in full swing. There are so many options to smarten up your apartment without flattening your wallet. But what is the best option for your budget and lifestyle? Looking at what brand you’re loyal to, how much you’re willing to spend and what you would use this type of system for, it can be a bit overwhelming. Fast Company even claims that 2017 is the year that the virtual assistant wars get real —and we would have to agree. With versions from Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and potentially Apple, where do you even start? We are breaking it down with price points, pros and cons, and general tips to help you nail down the perfect system for your apartment.
Amazon Echo Products
PRICE RANGE – Echo: $179.99 | Dot: $49.99 | Tap: $129.99 (via Amazon.com)
Amazon Echo/Alexa products offer far-field voice control so you can easily turn up your music, check the weather, hear the news or even place an order. The original Echo is the perfect centerpiece for your home and plays well with all your apps. The Dot is great for any room but still features that far-field voice control. The Tap is a newer on-the-go product that includes a hands free camera and outfit advice, but is only available by exclusive invitation. A downside to Alexa is that you have to usually use highly specific language for third-party commands so the system can understand.
Google Home
PRICE RANGE – $114 from Google Store, Target, Amazon, or Walmart
Google Home is powered by Google Assistant and offers support for multiple users with voice distinguishing technology. Get real-time answers for Google searches, command your audio, and control your home all with one easy device. Right now there is only option for your home, but that can definitely change in the future. They have integrated AI tools to make using third-party apps a bit easier and are still developing new techniques.
Microsoft Cortana
Separate device still not released
An upcoming contender is Microsoft’s Cortana, that currently works with computers, phones, and tablets Windows 10. They are in the process of creating a new system for non-Windows devices, but it is unclear when this will actually come out. For now, you can set reminders that will show up on all your devices, dictate emails with voice recognition, and enjoy the convenience of your own personal assistant. Be on the lookout for a speaker with Harman Kardon —check out the YouTube video here!
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Rumors continue to swirl about Apple creating a competitor in the personal assistant/smart home game, but it is still unsure if they are actually true. For now, you can use with a handful of third party apps, payments, ride booking, and smart home controls in the HomeKit ecosystem. But with Apple dominating the smartphone game, do they really need to branch out?
So far, there are plenty of smart home technologies to keep your eye on in 2017. With new devices coming so frequently, it’s hard to keep up with the best smart home products for your apartment. What are you favorite virtual assistant and smart home products? Share in the comments selection below!