Home Assistant & Matter
Product tests, releases and practical ideas for Home Assistant, Matter and your connected home.
About this list
This reading list brings together items from the sources selected for Home Assistant & Matter. Open each item at its original source for the complete article, episode or video. This is a selection of current coverage, not a complete archive.
Latest videos
Newest first
Meet the Aqara Smart Lock U600 🔑 Built for UK doors
Meet the newest addition to the Aqara lineup: the Smart Lock U600 is officially here! Built specifically for UK doors, the U600 gives you more ways to unlock, fingerprint, Apple Home Key, Samsung Wallet Digital Home Key, PIN, app automations, or a physical key. Plus, with native Matter over Thread, it fits seamlessly into your connected home. Smarter access. More ways in. Welcome home with the new Aqara Smart Lock U600. #Aqara #SmartLockU600 #SmartLock #SmartHome
We made it on the Today Show. 🫣
We made it on the Today Show. 🫣
Meet UniFi: Digital Twin
Enterprise technology. Without the enterprise tax. Meet UniFi: https://ui.com
Home Assistant Finally Lets Me Organize Everything!
Four HACS projects, four completely different problems — and two of these genuinely surprised me. In this Home Assistant HACS roundup, I'm looking at four projects that go beyond making dashboards look better. They help make sense of sensor history, understand Zigbee networks, organize entities from different integrations, and track energy consumption. Statistics Graph Chart Card lets me compare VOC and PM2.5 readings with the actual operating history of my fan and air conditioner, all on the same timeline. Zigporter gives me a much clearer view of my 72-device Zigbee network, including routing paths, signal quality, and potential problems. Template Device is probably my favorite idea in this roundup. It lets me bring sensors, switches, helpers, and automations from different integrations together into one logical Home Assistant device. I used my real rainwater irrigation system as an example. And finally, Ohm Assistant makes power and energy monitoring more useful, with area-based charts, detailed comparisons, and tracked versus untracked power consumption. As usual, I'm testing these projects in my actual Home Assistant setup, showing installation, configuration, what works, and what I think is worth keeping. 🔗 HACS Projects Featured in This Video: 📊 Statistics Graph Chart Card: https://github.com/cataseven/Statistics-Graph-Chart-Card 🕸️ Zigporter — Zigbee Network Visualization: https://github.com/nordstad/zigporter-hacs 🛠️ Zigporter CLI — Additional Zigbee Management Tools: https://github.com/nordstad/zigporter 🧩 Template Device — Virtual Devices & Entity Organization: https://github.com/catgiggle/HomeAssistant-TemplateDevice ⚡ Ohm Assistant — Power & Energy Monitoring: https://github.com/homeassistant-extras/ohm-assistant Chapters 00:00 - Four HACS Projects Worth Your Time 01:17 - Statistics Graph Chart Card 04:58 - Zigporter 09:21 - Template Device 14:16 - Ohm Assistant 17:25 - Which Ones Am I Keeping? 💻 GitHub: https://github.com/BeardedTink
How to Install the Aqara Smart Lock U600 | Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Ready to upgrade your front door? 🔐 In this step-by-step tutorial, we'll show you how to install the Aqara Smart Lock U600, designed for compatible UK doors. The U600 combines easy DIY installation with advanced smart home features, including Apple Home Key, fingerprint unlocking, and Matter over Thread support. Follow along as we walk you through the installation process so you can get your new smart lock set up and ready to use. What Makes the U600 Stand Out? 🔹 Slim Design – Designed for compatible UK door configurations. 🔹 Easy Installation – A DIY-friendly design. 🔹 Apple Home Key – Unlock using your iPhone or Apple Watch. 🔹 Fingerprint & PIN Access – Multiple convenient ways to enter your home. 🔹 Matter over Thread – Connect with compatible smart home platforms. 🔹 Countdown Auto-Lock – Added convenience for everyday security. Before installing, confirm your door's compatibility and follow the included user manual. Learn more: https://www.aqara.com/en/product/smart-lock-u600 #Aqara #SmartLockU600 #InstallationGuide #SmartLockInstallation #AppleHomeKey #SmartHome
Unboxing Aqara's brand new smart lock U600 | Apple Home Key, Matter over Thread & more!
Meet the new Aqara Smart Lock U600! 🔐 Designed specifically for UK homes, the U600 combines a sleek, slim design with smart security and convenient keyless entry. In this video, we're unboxing the U600 and giving you a first look at its design, included accessories, and standout features. Key Features: 🔹 Apple Home Key – Unlock with a simple tap of your iPhone or Apple Watch. 🔹 Matter over Thread – Seamlessly integrate with compatible smart home ecosystems. 🔹 Multiple Unlocking Methods – Choose from fingerprint recognition, PIN codes, NFC cards, Apple Home Key, and more. 🔹 Countdown Auto-Lock – Automatically secure your door after a preset countdown. 🔹 Up to 10 Months of Battery Life – Powered by four AA batteries. 🔹 IP65-Rated Front Panel – Built to withstand outdoor conditions. Discover a smarter way to secure your home with Aqara. Learn more: https://www.aqara.com/en/product/smart-lock-u600 #Aqara #SmartLockU600 #SmartHome #AppleHomeKey #MatterOverThread #SmartSecurity
Is Apple Playing it TOO SAFE with their Smart Home?
Apple FINALLY announced new smart home tech, and I got to see it in person! These are my thoughts on HomeView and the other new tech justs announced. *Links* Apple HomeView: https://www.apple.com/apple-homeview/ Apple TV 4K: https://www.apple.com/apple-tv-4k/ HomePod mini 2: https://www.apple.com/homepod-mini/ Apple Home Collection: https://www.apple.com/shop/home/accessories/apple-home-collection (affiliate) My smart home favorites: https://www.amazon.com/shop/smarthomesolver My smart home shirts! USA: https://smarthomesolver.big3creative.com/ International: https://smart-home-solver-shop.fourthwall.com/ FOLLOW ME Subscribe to Smart Home Solver: https://bit.ly/3joO1dZ Subscribe to Reed's Smart Home: http://bit.ly/3EulO02 0:00 Intro 0:16 What is Apple HomeView? 4:06 HomeView personalization 6:01 Price options 6:42 Other Announcements 8:20 Verdict 9:35 BTS --------- MUSIC All of the music throughout is by Nihilore. Ending song is The End by EVA. https://open.spotify.com/artist/6UIs5b0zSXztIW5GHkCTkK
Formlabs finally made a cheaper printer
Thanks to Formlabs for providing the Form Studio 1 for this project. More info: https://formlabs.com/3d-printers/form-studio-1/?utm_source=youtube&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=jeffgeerling-fs1-2026-07-26-global (Note: The above link is a campaign tracking link, NOT an affiliate link. I do not participate in any manufacturer affiliate programs, only Amazon Affiliates, as part of my YouTube sponsorship policy.) Other things I mentioned in this video: - GutBomb's MacPicoModem: https://jcm-1.com/product/macpicomodem/ - T-Rex model: https://www.printables.com/model/428782-t-rex-skull - Apple ADB Mouse Shell: https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:4545460/comments - Formtest model: https://formlabs.com/blog/measuring-3d-printer-reliability-formtest/ Support me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/geerlingguy Sponsor me on GitHub: https://github.com/sponsors/geerlingguy Merch: https://www.redshirtjeff.com 2nd Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GeerlingEngineering 3rd Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Level2Jeff Contents: 00:00 - Formlabs Form Studio 1 01:43 - Accessories and Tanks 02:54 - No cloud account required 03:49 - First resin print 05:36 - Power usage 05:59 - Dripping, drying, washing, curing 08:07 - POING! 08:56 - Changing resins 10:36 - A Pi case in Alpha Black 11:23 - Alpha Black to Alpha Clear 12:13 - A clear case for GutBomb's MacPicoModem 14:49 - T-Rex is clearly better 15:31 - Clear ADB Mouse 16:26 - The oozable Flexible 80A 17:35 - A rubber bumper emerges 13:34 - Total resin noob experience 20:24 - Value engineering, to cut the cost 22:31 - Finally in the hobbyist realm
Your reminder to slow down and make time for yourself
Your reminder to slow down and make time for yourself. A cozy evening, your favorite herbal tea, and the perfect lighting with Philips Hue Go Table Lamp. Because the little moments make all the difference. #PhilipsHue #SmartLighting #SelfCare
Aqara Home Store Singapore: grand opening recap 🎉
What a way to kick things off in Singapore! 🎉 A look back at the grand opening of our new Aqara Home Store! 🏡From exploring our latest smart home innovations to experiencing Aqara devices firsthand, it was an exciting day bringing the future of connected living to life. A huge thank you to everyone who joined us and made this milestone so special! 📍 61 Upper Paya Lebar Road, #01-03, Singapore 534816 Missed the grand opening? Come visit us and experience the possibilities of a smarter home for yourself! #Aqara #AqaraSmartHome #AqaraSingapore #SmartHome #GrandOpening #HomeAutomation
Mind if we get comfortable? 👀 #shorts
Mind if we get comfortable? 👀
We got a first look at the aqara u250 🔒👀
What's the difference between the Aqara Smart Lock U200 and the upcoming U250? 🔒 We got a first look at the U250 at IFA 2026, and here's what's new! 👀 Building on the features of the U200, the U250 introduces automatic firmware updates, faster unlocking, and optimized noise control for a quieter, more seamless experience. 📹 These clips were filmed at IFA 2026 as an early preview. The U250 has not officially launched yet, so stay tuned for more details on availability! #Aqara #SmartLock #U250 #SmartHome #ComingSoon
Introducing: UniFi Network 11
Our most impactful release yet — built for scale. 🔹 30% greater device capacity 🔹 Real-time traffic visibility 🔹 SLA-based SD-WAN routing 🔹 WiFi WAN backup And for the first time, UniFi is Matter-aware. Learn more: https://ui.social/NET-11 NET 11 Release Candidate: https://ui.social/NET-11-RC
Turning my home into a Halloween nightmare with Philips Hue
Turning my home into a Halloween nightmare with Philips Hue. From eerie red glows to spooky blue gradients, every light helps bring the scares to life. Which setup is your favourite? #PhilipsHue #HalloweenDecor #SmartLighting
🇸🇬 Singapore, we're here!
🇸🇬 Singapore, we're here! We're excited to announce the grand opening of our new Aqara Home Store in Singapore 🎉 Starting October 11, explore the Aqara smart home experience in person. Discover our latest innovations, get hands-on with your favorite devices, and see how a smarter, more connected home comes to life. 📍 61 Upper Paya Lebar Road, #01-03, Singapore 534816 Your smarter home starts here. Stop by and discover what's possible with Aqara! 🏠 #AqaraSmartHome #AqaraSingapore #SmartHome #GrandOpening
Your fall decor can do more than just sit there. 🍂🎃
Your fall decor can do more than just sit there. 🍂🎃 We hid an Aqara Vibration Sensor onto this candy corn jar, so every time it’s moved to grab a treat, it triggers a cozy fall lighting scene throughout the room. Think warm orange lights, glowing LED strips, and instant autumn vibes, all from one tiny movement. Proof that almost anything in your home can become part of an automation. 👀 What would you turn into a smart home trigger? #Aqara #SmartHome #HomeAutomation #SmartHomeIdeas #FallDecor #FallAutomation
This Google Home Mini Runs Home Assistant Now
Can an old Google Home Mini become a genuinely useful Home Assistant voice assistant? In this video, the MiciMike Home Mini DiP GEN1 goes through the first full benchmark in my Home Assistant Voice Assistant series. Instead of replacing the entire speaker, MiciMike replaces the electronics inside a first-generation Google Home Mini while keeping the original microphones, enclosure, and speaker. I tested it where it actually lives — in my Study — at different distances, with fan noise, competing speech, its own music playing, multiple wake words, TTS at different volume levels, and more complex requests through Sophia. The results were surprisingly good... with a few very clear limits. 🔊 MiciMike Home Mini DiP GEN1: https://micimike.com/gen1.html 🧠 Sophia NLU: https://nlu.to/ 🎬 Original Voice Assistant Series Video: https://youtu.be/kKDNd6tnFzE Chapters 00:00 - MiciMike Goes Through the Full Test 01:09 - Setup 02:27 - What Else Do I Need? 03:13 - How Hard Is the Setup? 04:17 - Home Assistant Integration 05:19 - First Working Command 06:34 - Can It Hear Me? 10:03 - Can I Hear It? 11:33 - Real-Room Usability 15:30 - Expandability and Maintenance 17:00 - Where Would I Actually Use It? 💻 GitHub: https://github.com/BeardedTinker 🎬 Video Assets, Configs & Project Files: https://github.com/BeardedTinker/video-assets 🛒 Bearded Tinker Shop: https://shop.beardedtinker.com ❤️ Become a Channel Member: https://www.youtube.com/@BeardedTinker/join If you find my videos useful, you can also support the channel using Super Thanks below the video. It helps support future testing, projects, and videos. 🌐 Follow Bearded Tinker: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeardedTinker X / Twitter: https://twitter.com/BeardedTinker Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BeardedTinker Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beardedtinker (*) Some links above are affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. It helps support th
Qualcomm made a Pi 5 killer. Good luck getting one
The Radxa Dragon Q8B is more than twice as fast, has twice the I/O, and is only a little bit larger than the Raspberry Pi 5. But it costs a smidge more, and can be hard to find. Links to things I mentioned in this video: - My SBC Reviews website: https://sbc-reviews.jeffgeerling.com - Radxa Dragon Q8B benchmark data: https://github.com/geerlingguy/sbc-reviews/issues/108 - I bought my 8GB model from ARACE: https://arace.tech/products/radxa-dragon-q8b None of those are affiliate links, and I purchased all the hardware used in this review :) Support me on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/geerlingguy Sponsor me on GitHub: https://github.com/sponsors/geerlingguy Merch: https://www.redshirtjeff.com 2nd Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@GeerlingEngineering 3rd Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@Level2Jeff Contents: 00:00 - 2x everything except the price 01:11 - Picking an OS shouldn't be this hard 02:38 - First boot and usage 04:14 - Benchmarks and performance 06:37 - Hardware notes 07:15 - BIOS, UEFI, and Linux ISOs 08:14 - The big problem
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