For starters, smart home devices are becoming more affordable and can easily integrate with each other so you can get the most out of each smart home device.
Because integration is now so common, amplifying the smart home can be done quickly and easily.
So, as promised, here are seven solutions that are achieving that feat.
1. August Smart Lock
With an emphasis on design, this gadget just looks cool. But does it do the job? Absolutely. By simply placing the device over your current deadbolt, you can lock or unlock your door without having to touch a thing. The lock automatically unlocks when you approach since it senses your smartphone. You can also hand out virtual keys to family members or guests and then delete their access when you have to. There's also 24/7 activity logs so you know who has entered your house and when.
The August Smart Lock starts at $199.
2. Ooma
Ooma is a VOIP phone solution which also connects with smart home products like Amazon Echo, Nest, Phillips Hue and LIFX smart lightbulbs. Several integrations and IFTTT recipes include the ability to initiate phone calls or check voicemail using Amazon Echo / Alexa or also get incoming calls via the Apple Watch.
Smart Lightbulb integration includes selecting certain color schemes if contacts are calling (like family) or a warning color if someone not on your contact list is calling.
Ooma also integrates 911 calling and security features, such as emergency calling via Amazon Echo or even making a call if Nest picks up traces of smoke.
3. Ecobee3 Smart Wi-Fi Thermostat
Many people shopping for a smart thermostat may immediately consider purchasing the Nest Learning Thermostat. However, Ecobee's version has been found to be a more convenient and effective option.
While both thermostats can learn when you're home, identify what your preferred temperature is and help you cut down on heating and cooling expenses, Ecobee's mobile app works flawlessly and coordinates with devices like Apple's HomeKit and the Amazon Echo. Furthermore, this thermostat uses a wireless sensor to make sure each room is being properly heated or cooled.
4. Halo Smart Labs
Halo Smart Labs manufactures innovative smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. In fact, its devices are the only smoke alarms that combine dedicated sensor technologies so it can detect fast- and slow-burning fires as well as carbon monoxide in one device. They can also tell the difference between a false and real fire.
Halo can send you a notification directly to your smartphone, talk to you if there's an emergency and play nice with smart home systems like the Iris by Lowe's.
Halo starts at $100.
5. Amazon Echo
No, Amazon's Echo isn't just a niche product in the saturated Bluetooth market. It's a nifty gadget that allows you to essentially play any song, set alarms and make your home even smarter. For example, you can connect Echo to Philips Hue lights and ask Alexa to dim the lights to 50 percent or have Ecobee crank up the heat.
You can also use Echo to find out about the weather, check your morning commute or generate shopping lists. It's even a useful kitchen assistant whenever you need help trying to figure things like how many tablespoons are in a stick of butter.
Amazon Echo can be purchased for $179.99.
6. Nest Cam
Filming in a beautiful 1080-pixel format, this third-generation camera contains a magnetic swiveling base so you can place it anywhere in your home. It also features two-way audio, high-res night vision and an incredible digital zoom. The Nest Cam integrates with other smart home products, such as the Nest Learning Thermostat, too.
While it won't replace home security systems, the Nest Cam is a useful device that can be used to monitor the most important things in your life, such as your child. To get the most out of the Nest Cam, though, you'll have to invest in the Nest Aware program for $10 a month. This gives you cloud storage, so if you spot something suspicious going on, you can save it and access it if needed.
The Nest Cam starts at $199.
7. Belkin WeMo Switch
How many times have you left home wondering if you turned off an appliance? We've all been there at some point. Now that anxiety is a thing of the past thanks to the Belkin WeMo Switch. Just plug it into any existing outlet, plug the appliance into the switch and then connect it to your Wi-Fi network. You can then control the appliance through an app on your smartphone.
What's really cool about this gadget is there's a ton of potential IFTTT recipes to use for your home. For example, "If your Nest is set to Away, then adjust fan mode for Holmes® Humidifier to Off" and "If cook timer finishes for Crock-Pot® Slow Cooker, then send me an SMS."
What favorite tech solution of yours has amplified your smart home?