If you love tinkering, ESPHome is a fantastic way to build custom smart home devices. This open-source firmware framework gives you local control over smart home devices that support open standards.

Nick is a Features author who's been writing for fellow tech geeks since 2011. While he's mostly focused on phones, he's also thrilled by cameras and audio gear of all shapes and sizes. On weekends, ...

Chris Wedel is a seasoned technology journalist with a rich background writing for top publications like CNET, Android Police, and Digital Trends. His work spans the consumer electronics landscape, ...