As experienced tech journalists who attended IFA 2018 in Berlin, we've seen firsthand how smart home technology continues to evolve, delivering unprecedented convenience and security. From advanced robot vacuums to intelligent cameras and thermostats, here are the standout products and announcements that captured our attention.
The Neato Botvac D7 (available on Amazon), introduced at last year's IFA, receives exciting software updates this fall. Its standout feature? The ability to draw "no-go" lines in the Neato app over a mapped floor plan created during the initial clean. This keeps the robot out of restricted areas effortlessly.
Unlike other vacuums with virtual fencing, the D7's app-based mapping and line drawing make it exceptionally user-friendly. You can also define custom zones for on-demand or scheduled cleaning. With upcoming Google Assistant integration, voice commands like "Clean the kitchen zone" will be possible.
This update is exclusive to the D7 and rolls out in fall 2018.
The Netatmo Smart Outdoor Camera (available on Amazon) excels with advanced object recognition, triggering recordings only for people, animals, or cars—avoiding false alerts from leaves or wind.
Recordings save locally to the included 8GB microSD card, or remotely to Dropbox or your FTP server. Even offline, access local files easily. It offers a 100-degree field of view at 1080p from its 4MP sensor, detects motion up to 50 feet at night, includes an LED spotlight, and supports live viewing via the Netatmo app.
The Netatmo Smart Indoor Camera (available on Amazon) blends seamlessly into your home with its sleek cylindrical design, disguising its security purpose.
Set "familiar faces" for tracking, with optional recordings to respect privacy. Strangers trigger mobile alerts. The 4MP sensor records 1080p video locally to microSD (8GB included) or remotely to Dropbox/FTP, with live app access.
The Ring Stick Up Cam impressed us as a versatile, weatherproof wireless camera for indoor or outdoor use. It mounts with one screw for easy relocation and adjusts via its flexible neck.
Though bulky, it's unmistakably a security camera. With a Ring protection plan, enjoy motion-activated recordings stored up to 60 days. Live view works without it. Features include 720p HD, night vision, two-way audio, alerts, and a remote siren.
Launch details are pending, but we expect it soon.
The Tado V3+ Smart Thermostat replaces central heating controls (or radiator valves with the radiator version). Starter kits include a bridge for your router.
Control via touchscreen or revamped app with smart schedules and "away" modes to save energy. Air Comfort analyzes indoor/outdoor data for sleep-improving tips like window adjustments.
Compatible with IFTTT, Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, and Apple HomeKit. Geofencing auto-adjusts based on location; boiler services available in select European countries.
We'll update this post with more discoveries from IFA 2018.
