2023 is shaping up to be an exciting year for smart home enthusiasts! 
As someone who’s deeply into integrating various devices and automations, I wanted to share some of my recent experiences and insights with the community.
First off, I’ve been experimenting with setting up advanced automations using my Homey Pro. One thing I’m particularly proud of is creating a flow that triggers a custom Alexa phrase when my presence is detected near the house. The goal is to remind me to take off my shoes and wash my hands as I enter. While the concept is simple, getting it right was a bit of a challenge, especially with the advanced flow editor. If anyone has tips or tricks for simplifying such setups, I’d love to hear them!
Another area I’ve been exploring is the integration of cameras and security systems. I recently added a few new cameras to my setup, but unfortunately, my existing ones stopped working. It’s been a bit of a puzzle trying to figure out why the live view isn’t connecting, even though the signal strength is strong. I’ve restarted everything, checked connections, and even tried replacing batteries, but nothing seems to work. If anyone has encountered similar issues or knows a fix, please share!
On a more positive note, I stumbled upon a really cool feature request that could make life even easier. Imagine being able to integrate your smart lock app directly into Carplay or Android Auto. This would be especially handy for hands-free operation when approaching the garage or front door. It would eliminate the need to dig out your phone while driving, which is a huge convenience. I’d love to hear if others think this is a practical addition or if there are workarounds already in place.
Lastly, I’ve been impressed with the growing ecosystem of smart devices, especially from brands like Govee. Their LED strip lights and other accessories have really elevated my home’s ambiance. If anyone has tips on how to best utilize these devices or creative automation ideas, I’m all ears!
Overall, 2023 feels like a year where smart home technology is becoming more integrated and user-friendly. I’m excited to see what innovations will come next and how we can all work together to make our homes smarter and more efficient. Let’s keep the discussions flowing and share our experiences and hacks! 