Yes, there actually are smart microwaves that can be operated hands free!
I had to see it to believe it myself, but there are now a number of microwaves that can be controlled via voice commands with Alexa or Google Home. No more searching and trying to find the correct buttons.
These microwaves require the user to place the food in the microwave, but then they can do the rest by stating something similar to, “Alexa heat for 20 seconds.” There are also a number of presets available to make the process go even smoother, but I know sometimes presets are more trouble than they are worth. One GE model allows the user to scan the barcode of a frozen meal, and the microwave knows what settings to use. An Amazon smart oven offers convection and air frying capabilities.
Of course, before purchasing any smart microwave, it would be beneficial to look into reviews and features. I am not able to recommend any specific one, but I am providing a couple of resources below that may help in your decision making.
With today’s technology, someone can be sitting and never have to lift a finger to turn the lights on (or off).
Imagine getting into bed and realizing the kitchen lights are still on. For many, this is frustrating to walk back to the kitchen. For others, they have to get back into their wheelchair to return to the kitchen to flip the switch.
There are a number of safety features that may be automated, such as if a camera or motion sensor senses movement after a certain time, lights come on. When not home, lights can be set to to randomly go on and off. The lights can also be set to automatically come on at sunset or at a certain preferred time.
This Hue Starter Pack includes the Hue bridge and bulbs to get started.
The Hue bridge plugs directly into router and utilizes the built in Zigbee network.
The Hue bridge allows up to 50 bulbs to be controlled via voice or smart device. Timers, routines, and more are able to be set on each of these bulbs.
With an Amazon Alexa or Google Home device, you can use simple voice commands such as, ‘Alexa, dim the lights’, or,’ ‘Hey Google, turn on the table lamp’, to control your lights. Compatible devices include: Amazon Echo Dot 3rd Generation or newer, Amazon Echo Plus, Amazon Echo Show 5 or newer, Google Home Mini and Google Home Hub.
Up to 10 Hue bulbs may be controlled using Bluetooth without using the bridge, but there are a number of limitations. More info on this can be found here at Hue’s website. I highly recommend using the Hue Bridge.
The bulbs are guaranteed to last 3 years, so there is much less replacement of bulbs!
The bulbs and bridge are compatible with the Hue app that may be installed on any iOS or Android device. This app allows users to customize lighting for their needs and to control from outside of the home if needed.
There are a vast number of types of Hue bulbs available to fit the needs of your household.
Pro tip: Pick one and stick with it. It’s easier to have one system than bouncing back and forth.
Comment below if you have some other smart bulbs you have found to work great in your home OR if you have any great tips on how to better use them with voice activation.
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This list is provided for informational purposes only as APTAT does not endorse specific products or brands. When purchasing be sure to thoroughly research the product features to ensure it will meet your individual needs.
Anyone would benefit from these notetaking tools, especially students!
These notetaking tools do more than just pen and paper or an audio recorder. They connect written notes with audio recording in a whole new way. There are other tools besides the ones I have included that are great to help with notetaking, and your choice will likely vary based on which device you use.
Livescribe Symphony
The Livescribe Symphony smart pen utilizes the Livescribe+ app on your smartphone, computer, or tablet to record the audio from what the teacher is saying while also saving your handwritten notes. The student can tap the written notes on the device to play back what was being said later when studying. This device retails around $100.
Notability app on iPad
The Notability app is available on the iPad for notetaking. This app allows users to record audio while simultaneously typing, writing, including images, and more. When later reviewing notes, they are able to tap any part of their notes to play back the audio. This app can be downloaded on the iPad for around $10.
Glean Note Taking
Glean software records audio notes so users can capture and learn from information more effectively. One aspect that is great about this software is that it will work on a number of devices, from Chromebooks to iPads to Android devices. Download a free thirty day trial here to help you decide if this is a good fit. This software is purchased as a subscription for around $12 per month.
Comment below if you have any other notetakers that are helpful in the classroom! I am always looking for new ideas to help students.
