Latest news with #smart home
The Sun
an hour ago
- Business
- The Sun
Major tech company's home security cameras and sirens will stop working in DAYS – customers must check account now
A HUGE British tech brand with more than two million customers is preparing to shut down its security cameras and sirens in a matter of days. Warning emails seen by The Sun have been sent out to affected users with important instructions before the cut off date. Hive is owned by British Gas parent company Centrica - though you don't need to be a British Gas customer to use their devices. The firm started out in 2012 mainly specialising in smart heating before branching off into more smart home products such as lighting, connected cameras, motion sensors and sirens. But three years ago Hive announced that it was phasing out its smart security products to focus on "energy-efficient smart-tech" instead. While the devices have continued to work for existing users, they'll now stop working entirely on August 1. The four products affected are: Hive View Camera Hive Siren and Keypad Hive Homeshield Hive Video Playback Despite being security-relate products, the Hive Window/Door contact sensors and Hive motion sensors will continue to operate. The email warns households to "download any footage you'd like to keep now" as it won't be accessible after 11am on August 1. "It is crucial that you save any required recordings before the cut-off period on the 1st of August 2025," Hive says. "Your data security is important to us, and we take disposal of data seriously. Warning to criminals as new Ring doorbell AI feature makes it even easier to catch you "Therefore, our system will be unable to recover any video footage if you fail to save your recordings before the 1st of August 2025." Those with Hive home security products have fumed online about the move. "They really need to refund our money," one user wrote on Reddit. " How can we just accept that we will no longer be able to use hive cameras again? Even the live stream will stop!!" Another commented: "Yup total w***ers - a lot of money and setup wasted." Hive has recommended customers "recycle your devices at your local Household Waste Recycling Centre". WHY DOES TECH STOP WORKING? By Jamie Harris, Assistant Technology and Science Editor at The Sun It's annoying when tech and gadgets are discontinued, rendering some - or all - features useless. Fortunately, companies have got better at lengthening how long they support kit. It tends to only happen after quite a few years have passed and the user numbers have dropped quite low. The truth of the matter is, firms have to keep updating and servicing this older tech which costs them money. When there's only a small number of people left using them older gadgets, it's harder to justify the cost. Moreover, new features on things like apps may not work on dated kit. So ultimately, in the end support is dropped for these gadgets so all their energy, money and time can be put into the newer ones.
The Verge
2 days ago
- The Verge
Shelly goes long.
All the smart home news, reviews, and gadgets you need to know about See all Stories Posted Jul 15, 2025 at 3:29 PM UTC
Globe and Mail
3 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Global Mechanical and Electromechanical Locks Market Revenue to Reach USD 28.36 Billion by 2030, Fueled by IoT Surge & APAC Growth
"Global Mechanical and Electromechanical Locks Market Research Report by Arizton" Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook, Growth Potential, Price Trends, Competitive Market Share & Forecast 2025–2030. Customize this Report According to the latest report by Focus Reports, the global mechanical and electromechanical locks market is on a strong growth trajectory, projected to expand from USD 21.30 billion in 2024 to USD 28.36 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.89%. This growth is driven by the increasing integration of IoT and wireless technologies into access control systems, the rising demand for digital locks from coworking spaces, and the rapid adoption of smart home ecosystems. Report Summary: Market Size (2030): USD 28.36 Billion Market Size (2024): USD 21.30 Billion CAGR (2024-2030): 4.89% HISTORIC YEAR: 2021-2023 BASE YEAR: 2024 FORECAST YEAR: 2025-2030 LARGEST REGION (2024): APAC FASTEST-GROWING REGION: Middle East & Africa MARKET SEGMENTATION: Product, Installation, End-User, Distribution Channel, and Geography GEOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS: North America, Europe, APAC, Latin America, and the Middle East & Africa Smarter Locks, Smarter Spaces: How IoT is Quietly Transforming Global Security The integration of IoT connectivity into electromechanical locks is emerging as a transformative trend in the global locks market, turning conventional locking mechanisms into intelligent, connected smart locks. This evolution is driven by rising security concerns, increased adoption in commercial infrastructures, the growing popularity of smart homes, and steady advancements in connectivity technologies. As modules like Bluetooth, Zigbee, Z-Wave, and Wi-Fi become more affordable, smart locks are becoming more accessible and user-friendly. These IoT-enabled solutions offer remote keyless entry, smartphone-based control, and real-time activity tracking, addressing both convenience and enhanced security. The demand for battery-powered, wireless electromechanical locks is accelerating across residential and commercial sectors, where they are increasingly integrated with building management systems, access control, and audit trail functionalities. As connectivity becomes central to modern access systems, the global market is clearly pivoting toward smarter, seamless security solutions. Wireless Access Control Accelerates as Businesses Prioritize Scalable, Connected Security The global mechanical and electromechanical locks market is seeing a strong shift toward wireless access control. Businesses are choosing wireless locks for their flexibility, easy installation, and lower infrastructure costs, especially in retrofits or multi-site operations. These systems eliminate the need for complex wiring while offering advanced features like real-time alerts, remote control, and access logs. Key technologies such as Bluetooth locks are affordable, energy-efficient, and simple to install, making them ideal for day-to-day operations. Wi-Fi-enabled locks go a step further, offering remote access, voice control through platforms like Alexa or Google Assistant, and full integration with building management systems. As internet usage grows globally, wireless locks are quickly becoming essential for secure, connected, and scalable access control in both commercial and residential spaces. Competitive Landscape: Key Developments in the Mechanical and Electromechanical Locks Market Allegion plc (2025) acquired Nova Hardware Pty Ltd in Australia, a company specializing in door hardware solutions including mechanical and electronic locks, pulls, levers, and hinges, strengthening its presence in the Asia-Pacific region. Fortune Brands Innovations (2025) launched new smart lock product lines under its Yale and Master Lock brands, targeting multi-family and commercial properties, expanding its reach in the B2B smart security segment. Honeywell (2024) completed the acquisition of Carrier's global access solutions unit, including Onity, LenelS2, and Supra,a strategic move to bolster its smart access portfolio, particularly in hospitality and mobile credentialing. APAC Leads the Global Market as Urbanization and Smart Infrastructure Surge The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region is at the forefront of the global mechanical and electromechanical locks market, commanding over 39% of the total share in 2024. This leadership is driven by a powerful combination of rising disposable incomes, a rapidly growing middle class, and accelerated urban development. As infrastructure projects multiply and high-rise construction surge, accounting for over half of global new high-rise developments, APAC's demand for advanced locking solutions continues to rise. Countries across the region are investing heavily in residential, commercial, and hospitality developments. Projects like China's Sky City, poised to become the tallest residential building in the world, underscore the growing need for secure, scalable access systems. At the same time, expanding retail and hospitality sectors, fueled by increased consumer spending on travel, dining, and entertainment, are contributing to strong demand for both mechanical and electromechanical locks. The region's swift adoption of smart home technology and integration of building automation systems further reinforces its position as a key growth engine in the global access control landscape. Key Vendors Allegion plc ASSA ABLOY Fortune Brands Innovations dormakaba Group HONEYWELL Other Prominent Vendors DOM Security EMKA Beschlagteile GmbH & Co. KG GEZE GmbH Gretsch-Unitas Hager Companies Hampton Products International Corp. HOPPE Holding AG Hormann MIWA Lock Co. SALTO Systems, S.L. ABUS Alban Giacomo Spa Brisant-Secure Cal-Royal Products, Inc. Codelocks International Ltd Deltana Enterprises, Inc. Dynasty Hardware Godrej GUANGDONG ARCHIE HARDWARE CO., LTD. Harrison Lock ISEO Kason Industries, Inc. KEYU Intelligence Co., ltd. Oubao Security Technology Co., Ltd PERCo Prime-Line Products Rejuvenation SAFETRON Southco, Inc. Somfy Tell Manufacturing ATOM LOCKS Winkhaus Market Segmentation & Forecasts By Product Mechanical Locks Electromechanical Locks By Installation Replacement New Construction By End User Hospitality Corporate Retail Healthcare Residential Education Others By Distribution Channel Offline Online By Geography APAC China Japan India South Korea Australia Europe Germany UK France Italy Spain Poland Russia North America US Canada Latin America Brazil Mexico Argentina Middle East & Africa Turkey UAE Saudi Arabia South Africa Other Related Reports that Might be of Your Business Requirement ANZ Automatic Garage Door Operator Market - Focused Insights 2023-2028 U.S. Automatic Door Market - Focused Insights 2024-2029 What Key Findings Will Our Research Analysis Reveal? How big is the global mechanical and electromechanical locks market? What is the growth rate of the global mechanical and electromechanical locks market? Who are the major players in the global mechanical and electromechanical locks market? Which region holds the largest share in the global mechanical and electromechanical locks market? Which product segment has the largest share in the global mechanical and electromechanical locks market? Which installation segment provides more business opportunities in the global mechanical and electromechanical locks market? About Focus Reports Welcome to Focus Reports, an esteemed Arizton Advisory & Intelligence subsidiary committed to delivering precise and insightful market research reports across all key geographies. Our unique selling proposition lies in our affordable pricing, accurate data, in-depth research, and presentation-ready reports. With us, expensive market research is outdated. We aim to be strategic, providing valuable data. Media Contact Company Name: Arizton Advisory & Intelligence Contact Person: Jessica Email: Send Email Phone: +1 3122332770 Country: United States Website:
Yahoo
4 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
IKEA Just Launched the "Smartest" Collection — And This is the One Thing I'm Buying ASAP
This article may contain affiliate links that Yahoo and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links. If you've been wanting to dive into the smart home lifestyle, but haven't done so because you just don't like the way all those techy devices look, I've got good news for you. Just months after announcing the end of its SONOS speaker collaboration, IKEA's popular smart home lineup is getting a major overhaul — and you can buy one of these aesthetically pleasing yet affordable new devices right now. Get ready to go way beyond KALLAX hacks and into fully integrated living. IKEA confirmed it'll be releasing 20 new offerings over the next few months in a press release on Wednesday, July 9. Fans can look forward to a new generation of Matter-over-Thread-compatible sensors, smart lights, remotes, and, most importantly, speakers, that will roll out in the coming months. (For the uninitiated, Matter and Thread are smart home standards. Matter 'is the language that smart home devices speak,' while Thread 'is the network they use to communicate,' per For the non-techy folks, this can all sound like confusing tech babble. But it's not — IKEA says this move will make its smart home products easier to use for anyone, so you can simply 'plug and play.' The best part? The IKEA DIRIGERA smart hub now allows you to connect your IKEA tech with other branded products (such as Apple, Amazon, Google, and Samsung) that you already own, making your entire home's smart system much more integrated and seamless. Drumming up the excitement early, IKEA gave buyers a preview of its brand-new smart home lineup by releasing its NATTBADD Bluetooth Speaker on July 9 — and the retro yet futuristic design costs less than $50. IKEA $50 Buy Now Despite its futuristic appearance, the new NATTBADD Bluetooth Speaker is designed to look like a vintage radio while featuring all the state-of-the art capabilities that you'd expect from your Bluetooth speaker. Available for just $49.99, the NATTBADD Bluetooth Speaker comes in either a canary yellow (my personal favorite colorway) as well as a black or nude hue depending on the vibe of your home. Shaped with a half-moon design on top and a square base, the compact speaker won't take up much space with its 7-inch height, nearly 5-inch width, and just under 4-inch length. However, the simplicity of the design (there are just two buttons in the front) is misleading, because you can simply tap a button to zero in on the Spotify Tap functionality, or opt to go into multi-speaker mode to connect to other NATTBAD speakers around your space. IKEA fans who are looking for a speaker with a little pizzazz will want to wait out for the BLOMPRAKT Speaker with Light, which will be rolling out in October. The table speaker looks like a light blue sci-fi-inspired lamp at first glance, but you can also use it to play your favorite music without taking up any extra space on your desk or bedside table. In addition to the BLOMPRAKT Speaker with Light's release in October, IKEA will be rolling out a new line of speakers in collaboration with Swedish designer Tekla Severin in January 2026. IKEA of Sweden's David Granath told The Verge that the company will also be releasing new product categories next January and April. We Used Our New 'Room Plan' Tool to Give This Living Room 3 Distinct Styles — See How, Then Try It Yourself The Design Changemakers to Know in 2025 Create Your Own 3D Room Plan with Our New Tool Sign up for Apartment Therapy's Daily email newsletter to receive our favorite posts, tours, products, and shopping guides in your inbox.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
IKEA Just Launched the "Smartest" Collection — And This is the One Thing I'm Buying ASAP
This article may contain affiliate links that Yahoo and/or the publisher may receive a commission from if you buy a product or service through those links. If you've been wanting to dive into the smart home lifestyle, but haven't done so because you just don't like the way all those techy devices look, I've got good news for you. Just months after announcing the end of its SONOS speaker collaboration, IKEA's popular smart home lineup is getting a major overhaul — and you can buy one of these aesthetically pleasing yet affordable new devices right now. Get ready to go way beyond KALLAX hacks and into fully integrated living. IKEA confirmed it'll be releasing 20 new offerings over the next few months in a press release on Wednesday, July 9. Fans can look forward to a new generation of Matter-over-Thread-compatible sensors, smart lights, remotes, and, most importantly, speakers, that will roll out in the coming months. (For the uninitiated, Matter and Thread are smart home standards. Matter 'is the language that smart home devices speak,' while Thread 'is the network they use to communicate,' per For the non-techy folks, this can all sound like confusing tech babble. But it's not — IKEA says this move will make its smart home products easier to use for anyone, so you can simply 'plug and play.' The best part? The IKEA DIRIGERA smart hub now allows you to connect your IKEA tech with other branded products (such as Apple, Amazon, Google, and Samsung) that you already own, making your entire home's smart system much more integrated and seamless. Drumming up the excitement early, IKEA gave buyers a preview of its brand-new smart home lineup by releasing its NATTBADD Bluetooth Speaker on July 9 — and the retro yet futuristic design costs less than $50. IKEA $50 Buy Now Despite its futuristic appearance, the new NATTBADD Bluetooth Speaker is designed to look like a vintage radio while featuring all the state-of-the art capabilities that you'd expect from your Bluetooth speaker. Available for just $49.99, the NATTBADD Bluetooth Speaker comes in either a canary yellow (my personal favorite colorway) as well as a black or nude hue depending on the vibe of your home. Shaped with a half-moon design on top and a square base, the compact speaker won't take up much space with its 7-inch height, nearly 5-inch width, and just under 4-inch length. However, the simplicity of the design (there are just two buttons in the front) is misleading, because you can simply tap a button to zero in on the Spotify Tap functionality, or opt to go into multi-speaker mode to connect to other NATTBAD speakers around your space. IKEA fans who are looking for a speaker with a little pizzazz will want to wait out for the BLOMPRAKT Speaker with Light, which will be rolling out in October. The table speaker looks like a light blue sci-fi-inspired lamp at first glance, but you can also use it to play your favorite music without taking up any extra space on your desk or bedside table. In addition to the BLOMPRAKT Speaker with Light's release in October, IKEA will be rolling out a new line of speakers in collaboration with Swedish designer Tekla Severin in January 2026. IKEA of Sweden's David Granath told The Verge that the company will also be releasing new product categories next January and April. We Used Our New 'Room Plan' Tool to Give This Living Room 3 Distinct Styles — See How, Then Try It Yourself The Design Changemakers to Know in 2025 Create Your Own 3D Room Plan with Our New Tool Sign up for Apartment Therapy's Daily email newsletter to receive our favorite posts, tours, products, and shopping guides in your inbox.
