I started to make a much longer reply a couple of days ago, but the short version is I really would be lost now without many of the so called smart devices.
What must now be over 10years ago, several members of this forum beta tested the tp-link smart plugs before they were even available for purchase in the UK. These were one of the very first smart plugs that consumers could purchase... and slightly later linked with Alexa devices.
In 2017 I started to get more serious with a Hive Hub for the heating, a couple of bulbs and plugs. Over the past 10years have gradually expanded each time items were of offer on Prime or Black Friday.
Ive added Blink cams, echo dots/shows/speakers and most of the lighting is done apart from those with non-compatible type bulbs. If you include all my Echos then I must have nearly 50 devices in total plus there also some extras for individual sockets on extension leads that have separate socket controls
Im still using the same Home Bub but had to replace my first bulb which was the stair light in Nov.. so although they are expensive, it lasted 9years in what is the nost accessed area.
I think I have a conflict with the amount of devices attached to the Hive Hub, there are rumours of a limit but Im unsure if it is my router or the actual hub. Ive got a total of about 24 bulbs, the last 2 I added keep losing connectivity . I had a similar issue about 7/8 years ago when I had a problem with my much loved VMG8324 which has a very low amount of devices (about 12-15) that it will issue an IPaddress too so had to add a tplink router for DNS. I think I need a new router but have been holding back until I eventually get around to getting FTTP.
I am always talking to Alexa, asking her the temp of the house/to boost the heating/turn on or off switches/ timers/bin day/asking numerous questions on various topics tp basic what days is it. Being disabled it really is a godsend to be able to control everything by voice.
