More on the IOT

When I discussed the New Matter MOD-t printer, I explained a feature that allowed for remote printing and monitoring. A 3D printer connected to the Internet. A coffee maker connected to the internet. A lawnmower connected to the Internet. A thermostat connected to the Internet. These days, more and more things are getting connected. The devices and links between them are known as the Internet of Things. I recently purchased two Belkin Wemo Smart Plugs to control lights in my room. The devices plug into a socket, and you can plug anything you want into the Wemo. This allows for a lot of flexibility, because a lot of things inside your house plug into the wall. Also, you can plug a power strip into a Wemo to toggle multiple devices at once. In my setup, I have one Wemo controlling a lamp in the corner, and then another Wemo that is hooked up to a power strip controlling two lights near my desk. The setup process is extremely easy, just requiring you to connect your Wemo plug(s) to your home Wi-Fi network and give each plug a name. After the initial setup through the Wemo app, you are greeted with a screen that has switches for each of the plugs and more settings. The app is great, but for even more convenience, I linked the Wemo plugs with the Google Assistant on my Android phone. In the Google Assistant settings, I was able to set catch phrases to trigger different actions. Now I can say "Ok Google, turn on the Desk Lights," and the two lights near my desk will switch on in a few seconds. You can also get creative and make up phrases. For example, when I say "Good night" to Google Assistant, it turns off all the lights. I feel that smart plugs like these are the best way to get into home automation. You don't need much, just an Internet connection, device with digital assistant (Siri, Alexa, Google Assistant) and available power outlets. Also, you pay a reasonable $30 for one Wemo. The Internet is evolving, and reaching almost everything that has electricity in it. These Wemo plugs won't start the Matrix, but are indeed a start to a new way of interacting with the things around you. The convenience of home automation is amazing, and shows how our lives and environment will be connected to the Internet.