CES 2022 took place this week over in Vegas and while it was somewhat sparsely attended - by both brands and visitors alike - it was still a hot bed for exciting smart home launches.
Although some of the bigger brands decided not to exhibit at the show directly that didn't stop them from announcing the big new smart home devices that they will be hitting the shops over the next few months.
Read on for our pick of CES 2022 'top picks'...the 10 smart home product launches that really made us sit up and take notice.
Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra
The best robot vacuum in the world just got even better. The Roborock S7 MaxV Ultra is a complete cleaning system that offers vacuuming, mopping and self-cleaning.
Sure, we've had robot vacuum cleaners in the past that come with their own docking stations to empty dust but the new S7 MaxV Ultra takes things to the next level as it also cleans its mop and keeps the water tank fresh.
On the vaccuming front, this is by far the most powerful robot vacuum cleaner from Roborock (or any other brand) by some distance with a 5100Pa suction rating.
Schalge Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
Shlage's lastest smart lock is one of the first devices to utilize Apple’s new home key feature; you can use Apple Wallet to store your key and unlock your door with either your iPhone or Apple Watch, even five hours after your phone or watch has run out of battery.
For anyone who needs to allow people temporary access to their property – to water their plants when away, for example – the app can also be used to create and manage up to 100 access codes, and set them with temporary, recurring or permanent access.
Wemo Smart Video Doorbell
The new Wemo is actually one of only a handful of HomeKit compatible video doorbells, and only the third to be HomeKit Secure Video certified.
The doorbell features a 178-degree field of view, 4MP camera with enhanced night vision and optional zoom clarity to ensure you have a crystal clear view of what’s happening outside your front door.
Abode Wireless Video Doorbell
Another video doorbell, but this time one at a fraction of the cost of the WeMo, the battery-powered Adobe Wireless Video Doorbell.
The new Ring-rival smart video doorbell includes Wi-Fi, 2K video and IP65 resistance from the elements.
There's also live-view and two-way communication, plus there's a button so visitors can let you know they've arrived the old fashioned way.
When paired with an Abode Standard or Pro subscription, users will also benefit from cloud recording, motion detection and a recorded clip of anyone who pushes the doorbell.
The Abode Smart Detect feature means you'll be notified if a person is detected at the door. A future update will include package and pet detection skills.
Samsung Home Hub
The new Samsung Home Hub is an 8.4-inch tablet that effectively acts as a SmartThings dashboard and a control panel for all your connected Samsung appliances.
It comes with a charging dock but has a battery on board for portability and there's also the Bixby voice assistant on board too.
This is our most 'ambitious' pick because, let's face it, no one is really sure what it is capable of doing exactly.
However, it has caused quite a stir and for that reason we're including it in our top picks.
Kohler PerfectFill
Running the bath has always been a tricky balancing act. Ensuring you get the temperature just right before the hot water runs out, and with enough of the wet stuff to ensure you don't have to contend with that awkward half-full phase where your exposed skin gets chilly.
Enter the Kohler PerfectFill, which allows you to set the perfect temperature and water depth for your tub time.
It can all be achieved through the Kohler Connect companion app or through voice commands from both Google Home or Alexa. There are also ten pre-set options, so there should be a solution for everyone in the house.
Masonite M-Pwr Smart Door
Why buy smart lock and a smart doorbell when you can get a door that does it all?
The new Masonite M-Pwr Smart Door range incorporates smart lights, a video doorbell and a smart lock into one entrance-securing device.
If you’ve been put off by the idea of connecting up a collection of different systems and units, then this all-in-one smart door might be for you.
Eve Outdoor Cam
HomeKit specialist Eve has used CES 2022 to launch the first ever floodlight camera designed exclusively for Apple HomeKit Secure Video.
The HSV skills of the Eve Outdoor Cam means your footage is privately analyzed by your HomeKit hub and uses on‑device intelligence to determine if people or pets are present.
With the Eve Outdoor Cam, if motion is detected users can get a notification that lets you view the clip from their iPhone Lock Screen. You can also view recorded video clips for for ten days in the Home app.
Cync Smart Thermostat
GE Lighting's smart home platform Cync went big at CES 2022 with a new Smart Thermostat, Temperature Sensor, new Outdoor Security Cameras and an array of new smart lighting products.
The Smart Thermostat caught our eye with its slick design and fairly low price-tag.
It can be installed without a common wire, avoiding some of the compatibility issues experienced by homeowners when attempting to smarten up their temp control and it features a large, sleek and high-contrast display.
Arlo Security System
The Arlo Security System comprises of just two parts; a security hub with an integrated keypad and a multi-purpose sensor.
Capable of eight different sensing functions, Arlo is banking on the multi-purpose sensor to set its smart home security alarm system apart from rivals.
The multi-purpose sensor can detect motion, door/window openings and tilt, water leaks, light/temperature changes, and T3 and T4 smoke/CO alarm patterns.
The keypad/hub combo also houses a siren and uses NFC for quick alarming and disarming.
Everything is managed through the Arlo Secure app and there are premium plans available which include professional monitoring and the like.
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