I’ve always been on the lookout for a tabletop display device that combines great functionality with a sleek design, and the Lenovo ThinkSmart View has been a game-changer for me. After some research, I decided to give it a try, and I’m thrilled with the results. Here’s my story and some tips for anyone considering this device.
The Devices and Dashboards
I started with one Lenovo ThinkSmart View device, and it quickly became a cornerstone of my home automation setup. The device’s versatility and excellent speaker quality make it perfect for displaying dashboards and notifications. I’ve since expanded to five devices, each tailored to specific rooms with local variations in controls and information.
Key Features I’ve Implemented:- Time and Weather: Always have the current time and weather forecast at a glance.- Lighting Scenes: Customizable buttons with conditional coloring for different lighting modes.- Camera Streaming: Live feeds from my Frigate camera system, perfect for monitoring the front door.- Smart Washer and Dryer: Real-time status updates, including time remaining and mode information.- Bin Collection: A handy reminder for when waste collection is scheduled.- Popup Notifications: For important alerts like water leaks or package deliveries.
Managing Multiple Devices
One of the biggest challenges was managing multiple devices seamlessly. I’ve developed a system using individual non-admin users for each device and a central management dashboard to control header and sidebar visibility. This setup has saved me countless trips up and down the stairs!
Software Stack:- Fully Kiosk Browser: For kiosk functionality and URL management.- Kiosk Mode Integration: Dynamically hide or show headers and sidebars.- Mushroom Cards and Card-Mod: For custom styling and conditional logic.- Digital Clock and Custom Brand Icons: Enhance the dashboard’s aesthetics and usability.
Quirks and Workarounds
Like any device, the ThinkSmart View has its quirks. Audio issues through the webview and occasional screen responsiveness delays are things I’m still working on. However, the benefits far outweigh these minor annoyances. I’ve also explored Android 11, but for now, I’m sticking with the stable Android 8.1 ROM.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a reliable, customizable display solution for your home automation setup, the Lenovo ThinkSmart View is worth considering. The community support and available resources have been invaluable, and I’m excited to continue refining my setup.
Let me know if you have any questions or tips—happy automating!