It’s 2026 and A LOT has changed in the world of smart homes. We’ll walk you through all of it. From the latest updates to the Matter and ALIRO smart lock standards to what’s changed across major smart home platforms like Google Home, Amazon, Apple Home, Home Assistant, Homey and more! Plus, we’ll take you through the smart home devices we actually use and recommend, including thermostats, cameras, appliances, smart blinds, smart lighting, and more.
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🕰️Timestamps:
0:00 – Matter Standard
5:22 – ALIRO Smart Lock Standard
9:32 – Google Home Updates
10:05 – Amazon/Alexa Updates
10:47 – Apple Home Updates
11:31 – Samsung SmartThings Updates
11:50 – Homey Updates
12:41 – Home Assistant Updates
13:02 – Hubitat
13:32 – Why Use Smart Home Hubs vs. Platforms
17:43 – Smart Home Device Recommendations
18:49 – Smart Thermostats
19:35 – Security Cameras and Doorbells
20:45 – Smart Appliances
23:02 – Smart Blinds
24:12 – Smart Lighting
26:06 – Smart Plugs and Light Switches
📜 Disclosures 📃 – Learn more at
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6 Months Later received a media discount from Lutron on the smart blinds seen in this video. We also received the Home Pro Mini shown at no cost. This video has no sponsor.
Any Amazon links we provide in our descriptions are in conjunction with our Amazon partnership. The channel receives a small percentage of revenue from any sales generated by viewers clicking the links.
#SmartHome
#Matter
#ALIRO
#SmartLock
#HomeAssistant
#GoogleHome
#AppleHome
#PhilipsHue
#Lutron
#NestThermostat
📑Blog Post: https://6monthslater.net/2026/03/smart-home-guide-2026-what-to-buy-platform-updates-more/
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👉 2025 Smart Home Guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GFtvYFZhlao
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I never had an issue with Alexa routines or any of the devices. Why is that ? Am I just lucky ? To makes thing easier on me. I have the Amazon Basic routine button switch. Its been amazing.
Samsung reigns supreme by far buddy
smart thermostat section is probably the most relevant piece for anyone trying to connect their HVAC system into a broader smart home setup. one thing worth knowing is that a smart thermostat works best when the underlying HVAC system is actually in good shape – if the system is older or hasn’t been serviced in a while, remote diagnostics and scheduling features won’t save you from a breakdown mid-summer. if you’re going down the Nest or Honeywell route and your system hasn’t had a tune-up in a while, it might be worth pairing that upgrade with a pro checkup. ARS/Rescue Rooter is one option that handles both HVAC service and thermostat compatibility questions, though availability and what they offer varies by location, so worth checking your ZIP before assuming.
smart thermostats are probably the most practical starting point for most homeowners in a guide like this. the Nest 4th gen is solid, but one thing worth considering is whether your HVAC system is actually compatible before you buy – older systems sometimes need a C-wire adapter or a pro install to work right. if you’re not sure, having someone check the wiring first saves a headache later. ARS/Rescue Rooter is one option that handles smart thermostat installs alongside HVAC work, though availability depends on your area and they’re not the only choice. just make sure whoever installs it confirms compatibility with your existing system before committing.