Category: Home Appliances
Is my air fryer spying on me? Which? reveals smart devices gathering most data
Which? research has found evidence of excessive smart device surveillance - from air fryers demanding permission to listen in on your conversations and sharing data with TikTok, to TVs wanting to know your exact location. The consumer association rated products across four categories and gave them overall privacy scores for factors including consent and what…
Big tech brands flouting new laws on smart devices, warns Which?
Hisense, a prominent Euro 2024 sponsor, offers just two years of support from when a smart TV is first released Big brands behind expensive smart appliances, including smartphones, doorbells and smart TVs, are potentially selling smart devices illegally by breaking product security laws that came into force earlier this year. The…
Tougher laws for UK’s internet-enabled smart devices
Manufacturers will have to follow stricter rules if they want to sell internet-enabled 'smart' gadgets such as smart speakers and security cameras as a new law comes into force. From today, manufacturers will be legally required to protect consumers from hackers and cyber criminals from accessing devices with internet or network connectivity - from smartphones…
How to secure your smart home device
From thermostats to security cameras, smart home devices have become integral parts of modern living. However, hackers are increasingly targeting these devices, exploiting their vulnerabilities to gain unauthorised access and steal data. So, how can you enjoy the convenience of this futuristic tech without falling prey to criminals? Trevor Cooke, the online privacy expert…
Brands failing to tell customers when smart appliance support will end
Hive has switched off support for many of its security cameras making them obsolete, just a few years after launch Big brands behind expensive smart appliances, including washing machines, dishwashers, TVs and security cameras are keeping customers in the dark about how long it will be before they abandon products by…
Which? warns against buying ‘cheap’ appliances that rack up huge energy bills
Kettles, like this one from Cookworks, are very cheap to buy but very expensive to run, Which? research has found Some ‘cheap’ freezers, ovens and washing machines that cost under £500 could be pricier in the long run by adding hundreds of pounds to your energy bills over a year, Which?…
The Impact of Voice Assistants in Our Daily Lives
A recent study found that voice assistance use in the UK is increasing, with a recorded 28 per cent of respondents saying they use these tools multiple times a day. Whether you are a current user or looking for a voice assistant-enabled device, understanding the potential impact of voice assistants in your life is essential.…
Which? warns of security cameras sending data to TikTok
Smart home device owners are being asked to provide swathes of data to manufacturers, which could compromise their privacy and potentially result in them handing their personal information to social media and marketing firms, Which? research has found. The consumer association found companies appear to hoover up far more data than is needed for the…
Why more and more people are opting for quality over quantity when it comes to kitchen appliances
Just like everything in our society, technology and development continue to move forward when it comes to kitchen appliances. Regardless of whether it’s fridges connected to the WiFi or whether it’s an oven with a built-in camera that promises to shut itself off when the result is just the way you want it, it would…
6 Smart Systems That Can Improve the Functionality of Your Home
Smart technology is fantastic for improving the functionality of your home, but also for making it cooler. Using things such as smart lighting or heating will make your life significantly easier and is a great addition to modern architecture. Unfortunately, given that most homeowners don't know much about these gadgets, they can't differentiate between vital…
