Put these popular voice-assistance accessories at the top of your list
If any of your family members or friends think they couldn't live without Alexa or Google Assistant, give them a voice-activated accessory to be used in tandem.
From enhancing thermostats to security systems, voice assistants are getting busier and busier! Check out these gift-worthy products below:
Ninety7's Sky Tote Portable Battery Base, $60
Do you know someone who doesn't like to be too far from his Alexa-assisted Echo smart speaker? Be a pal and surprise him with a rechargeable battery base that works with the second-generation Echo, essentially making the speaker portable — it even has a handle.
Not only can it be moved from room to room but if the Wi-Fi connection is strong enough, it also works outside. Expect up to eight hours of battery life, which means there's plenty of time to ask Alexa important questions like “Where can I get pork dumplings for dinner tonight?” ninety7.com.
Ecobee Smart Thermostat with Voice Control, $249
What's so special about this fifth-generation smart thermostat? The SmartSensor, which detects a room's temperature and number of occupants to manage hot and cold spots. Besides improved range, the battery lasts longer — up to five years. It now also supports Spotify, joining other streaming services like SiriusXM, Pandora and iHeartRadio. It works with Alexa, Google Assistant and Siri. ecobee.com.
Ring Door View Cam, $199
Let's say a friend just moved into a new apartment building. She loves it there but wishes the security could be beefed up. Be proactive and give her the gift of safety. Ring Door View Cam is a compact video doorbell equipped with a smart HD camera, which replaces a door's peephole.
When someone rings the bell or knocks on the door, the Ring doorbell and Alexa send the apartment dweller an alert on their phone, tablet or PC, and they can see and speak to visitors at their discretion. Another safety feature: a motion detector that can be aimed exactly where it's needed most. ring.com.
Philips Hue White LED, $15
Your voice assistants can even enable light bulbs! Now with Bluetooth, these smart bulbs — a great stocking stuffer — fortunately don't require a Philips automation hub for them to work. They connect with your phone and follow Alexa voice commands, as well as Google Assistant and Siri, whether you want the lights lowered in your home (“Alexa, dim the lights by 10%”) or if you're looking for special effects (“Turn the bedroom pink”). meethue.com.
Amazon Smart Plug, $25
Giving a loved one a plug for a holiday gift might sound rather underwhelming but this isn't any old plug. The sleek Wi-Fi-connected Amazon Smart Plug goes into an electrical outlet and can power up all your home appliances. Alexa or Google Assistant will automatically detect them if they're online and then follow your voice instructions to turn a lamp, air conditioner or other electrical device on or off. amazon.com.