Home automation Stories

Global Stories

Home automation stories

LG and Apple launch seven new smart home accessories

Privacy-conscious homes get new choices as LG and Apple roll out seven connected devices, including cameras, a lock and a thermostat.

By Mara Sugue • 4 min read • Last week

Private Cloud

Apple launches HomeView smart home screen with Siri AI

The new device blends smart home controls, FaceTime and personalised apps, while its EU launch is blocked by Siri AI's regional limits.

By Sofiah Nichole Salivio • 4 min read • Last week

Smart Home

Apple's expanded Home spread: HomePod mini 2, Apple TV 4K

The new hardware lineup gives Apple a bigger play in the smart home, with Siri AI, surround sound and accessories.

By Jake MacAndrew • 4 min read • Last week

Internet of Things

OpenAudio adds KNX media metadata to HOLO-WHAS range

KNX touch panels can now show track and artist details, giving installers a richer audio interface across homes and venues.

By Sofiah Nichole Salivio • 3 min read • Last month

Robotics

Roborock unveils first pool cleaner & new robot mower

Australian and New Zealand buyers will get Roborock's first pool robot in January 2027, as the firm widens into garden care and allergy-labelled cleaners.

By Sean Mitchell • 4 min read • Last month

Robotics

ECOVACS launches DEEBOT X12S OmniCyclone robot vacuum

The AUD $2,999 robot vacuum aims to lure ANZ households with stronger suction, while cutting upkeep for pet hair, stains and carpet dust.

By Sean Mitchell • 4 min read • Last month

Software-as-a-Service

Rithum launches home app for remote heating control

The rollout gives homeowners remote access to heating, cooling and hot water, while keeping schedules running locally during internet outages.

By Sofiah Nichole Salivio • 3 min read • Last month

Data Protection

Ugreen launches HomeAgent local-first smart home system

The local-first approach could appeal to buyers wary of cloud dependence, as Ugreen opens pre-orders for its HomeAgent hubs from USD $50.

By Sean Mitchell • 4 min read • Last month

Internet of Things

Dreame unveils smart home range at IFA 2026 in Berlin

The Berlin showcase signals Dreame's push to build a broader connected-home ecosystem in Australia and New Zealand beyond robot vacuums.

By Sean Mitchell • 4 min read • Last month

Data Protection

LG unveils AI home ecosystem for European households

European shoppers could see more connected appliances and lower power bills as LG broadens its AI home push with energy-saving products.

By Sean Mitchell • 4 min read • Last month

Internet of Things

LG unveils ThinQ Claw AI agent for connected home platform

The text-based agent aims to simplify control of connected appliances by letting users describe plans in natural language rather than set routines.

By Mark Tarre • 4 min read • Tue, 1st Sep 2026

Smart Home

LG launches campaign to tackle domestic mental load

Survey findings suggest domestic chores are fuelling stress for many adults, with LG pitching smart appliances as a way to ease the burden.

By Sean Mitchell • 4 min read • Thu, 20th Aug 2026

Stories from Other Regions

Home automation stories

Internet of Things

Hisense marks 20 years in Australia with home push

Its local range now spans fridges, laundry and connected devices, as the brand seeks to hold shelf space in a crowded market.

By Mara Sugue • 4 min read • This month

Internet of Things

TCL launches new VoxIN smart air conditioners in Australia

Australian households facing higher power bills will be able to buy TCL's new range from AUD $959, with offline voice control and AI energy management.

By Joseph Gabriel Lagonsin • 3 min read • Last month