The smart home devices making family life easier

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Lighten the load at home with these smart home devices.

You’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. Smart home technology is at its peak right now.

Imagine controlling almost any device in your home – from AI personal assistants to robots that vacuum and mop your floors, and security systems that let you keep an eye on things no matter where you are. It’s all possible and easier than ever!

Investing in smart home devices can truly transform your home, making it a safer, more convenient, and efficient place for your whole family.

Here are some essential smart home devices every family should consider:

Smart home devices your family will love

1. Smart refrigerator

A high-tech refrigerator with features like touchscreens and app connectivity helps families manage food, track groceries, and streamline everyday kitchen tasks.

Samsung 615L AI Home Side By Side Refrigerator – SRS6500BA 

from $2,799 (was $3,299) at Samsung

Running a family home is a full-time job, which is why smart appliances like the Samsung 615L AI Home Side By Side Refrigerator can make life so much easier. With clever features, smart connectivity and a family-friendly design, here’s how it can make life a little easier:

• No more dinner stress: Standing in front of the fridge, hoping for meal inspo? This fridge helps by letting you set use-by dates and sending reminders before food goes to waste. Out shopping and can’t remember if you’ve still got yoghurt? Just check the SmartThings App to see what’s inside, it’s like bringing the fridge with you (minus the toddler tantrums).

• Hands-free control: The 9” AI Home touchscreen lets you manage apps, control connected devices and even stream YouTube while you prep. With built-in Bixby voice control, you can adjust settings, play music or check the weather — no hands needed.

• Kid-friendly design: The Auto Open Door function means a light tap is all it takes to open the fridge, so no more juggling babies and bags. It also lights up and makes a sound, so little ones can find what they need (with supervision, of course!).

• Cool, consistent storage: Say goodbye to soggy veggies and mystery leftovers. All-Around Cooling keeps temperatures even, while Metal Cooling helps maintain a steady chill. Need to cool drinks fast or freeze leftovers? Power Cool and Power Freeze have you sorted.

• Energy tracking for the win: The SmartThings Energy feature shows real-time usage, compares it to last month, and sends alerts if you’re using too much which is a smart way to get the whole family thinking about saving energy (and cutting down the power bill).

Key features:

• AI Home 9″ LCD Touchscreen Display
• Built-in Bixby voice control
• Auto Open Door function
• Plumbed Water & Ice Dispenser
• 615L Capacity
• Side By Side configuration
• All-Around Cooling technology
• Power Cool and Power Freeze Function
• Wi-Fi Embedded (SmartThings App Support)
• SmartThings Energy support
• SmartThings Home Care support
• AI Inverter Compressor with 20 Year limited parts warranty
• Speaker and Bluetooth connectivity

Available at:

• $2,799 (was $3,299) at Samsung

2. Smart wet and dry floor cleaner

A smart wet and dry floor cleaner is ideal for family homes, using sensors and self-cleaning tech to make everyday cleaning faster and easier.

Tineco FLOOR ONE S9 Artist Pro

from $1,299 at Tineco Australia (Bonus gift: Tineco Go Mini Pet Hand Vacuum, valued at $199)

If you’ve got kids (or pets… or both), you already know clean floors don’t last long in a family home. There’s always something… snack crumbs under the couch, mystery spills in the hallway, muddy footprints across the tiles. That’s why having the right cleaning tool makes all the difference. And the Tineco FLOOR ONE S9 Artist Pro isn’t just helpful, it’s a game-changer for busy families.

This clever all-in-one wet and dry vacuum tackles the mess and the mop in one go, with smart features that actually do some of the thinking for you…

Key features:

• The iLoop Smart Sensor detects how dirty your floors are and automatically adjusts suction and water flow to match, so you’re not wasting battery or energy cleaning what doesn’t need it.
• Tangled hair in the roller? Not anymore. The DualBlock Anti-Tangle Technology scrapes hair away before it clogs up the system, and removes dirty water and debris as you go.
• The double-sided edge cleaning is amazing too. It gets right up against the skirting boards (where rice crackers go to die) and into tricky corners.
• The HyperStretch lay-flat design might be every parent’s dream feature as it lets the vacuum glide under beds, couches and toy-laden furniture. It goes down to just 12.85cm high, while the 90° swivel helps you dodge Lego piles like a pro. Even better? The suction stays strong, even when the vacuum is completely flat.
• The FlashDry self-cleaning system deep-cleans the brush roller and pipes using heated water, then dries everything at 85°C to prevent odours and mould. It’s all done in five minutes with no dismantling, no fuss and no musty mop smell afterwards.
• With up to 75 minutes of cordless run time, you can get the whole house done during nap time (or at least before the next snack break). And the large water tanks mean fewer interruptions for refills or emptying.
• Add its sleek design and quiet performance, and the Artist Pro fits right into modern family life. Because when the mess never stops, your cleaning routine shouldn’t slow you down.

Available at:

• $1,299 at Tineco Australia (Bonus gift: Tineco Go Mini Pet Hand Vacuum, valued at $199)
• $1,299 at Tech Sales Online
• $1,299 at Kogan

3. Robot vacuums

A robotic vacuum cleaner will keep your floors clean without you lifting a finger. They can be scheduled to tidy up the house at specific times or summoned with a tap on your phone or a command to your virtual assistant.

ECOVACS DEEBOT X5 PRO OMNI 

from $1,299 (was $1,499) at ECOVACS

This clever, ultra-slim robot vacuum and mop designed to handle messes while you focus on on literally anything else. This little powerhouse packs 15,000Pa suction, which is strong enough to lift up everything from fine dust to stubborn debris, all while running quietly in the background.

Key features:

• The ultra-thin 81mm design lets it glide effortlessly under couches, beds, and cabinets where messes tend to hide.
• Advanced AI tech: With 3D structured light and smart RGB cameras, the DEEBOT can navigate tricky corners, avoid obstacles, and clean even in low light. No more missed spots or hidden dirt.
• ZeroTangle 2.0 technology means no more untangling hair from brushes after every clean, which is a real win for busy parents.
• Washing at 75°C and drying at 45°C: On top of vacuuming, it mops with hot water to tackle stubborn stains without you lifting a finger. And the TruEdge 2.0 brush means it doesn’t miss a single corner, leaving your floors fresh and spotless.
• The OZMO Turbo 2.0 uses dual rotating mop plates and five-fold cleaning technology to effectively dissolve stubborn stains like soy sauce and coffee, delivering powerful stain removal 
• The upgraded OMNI Station takes convenience to a whole new level — automatically emptying dust, refilling detergent, washing the mop with 70°C hot water, and drying it with 45°C hot air. It even cleans itself, so you’re not stuck scrubbing tanks or rollers.

Available at:

• $1,299 (was $1,499) at ECOVACS
• $1488 at Big W

4. Smart calendar

Manage your family schedule more efficiently with a smart calendar that syncs across multiple devices, provides reminders, and integrates with digital calendar apps.

Skylight Max 27-Inch Calendar

from $1,521.37 at Amazon AU

Keeping up with family life isn’t easy. Between school schedules, after-school activities, work meetings, chores, and mealtimes, the daily juggle is real. That’s where the Skylight Calendar Max steps in. This 27-inch HD touchscreen display auto-adjusts between portrait and landscape mode, keeping your family’s schedule front and centre, wherever you choose to place it.

Designed with busy households in mind, this sleek digital wall calendar is more than just a planner, it’s a smart family hub. With automatic syncing, shared access, and customisable tools like chore charts and meal planning, it helps everyone stay connected, organised and accountable.

Key features:

• All-in-one family dashboard: Manage schedules, chores, meals, and to-do lists in one easy-to-use display everyone can see and access.
• Effortless syncing with all calendars: Connects to Google, Apple, Outlook, Yahoo, and Cozi, instantly syncs events across all your devices with no manual updates.
• Chore chart and daily planner: Assign tasks and routines to each family member, building independence in kids and reducing the mental load for parents.
• Mobile access anytime, anywhere: Make updates on the go via the free Skylight app, changes show up instantly on the home display.
• Meal planning (Plus Plan feature): Plan weekly meals, manage grocery lists, and reduce midweek dinner stress.
• Stars and rewards system (Plus Plan feature): Motivate kids with a visual tracker they’ll actually enjoy using.
• Modern, customisable design: Mounts easily in portrait or landscape and comes with swappable frames to suit your home’s style.

Available at:

• $1,521.37 at Amazon AU

5. Smart home hub

With Alexa and Google as your personal assistants, you can easily get weather updates, hear the news, check your calendar, listen to music and manage your shopping list – all without lifting a finger.

Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) 

from $429 at Amazon AU

Designed around Amazon’s virtual assistant Alexa, the Echo Show features a touchscreen display that can be used to display visual information to accompany its responses, as well as play video and conduct video calls with other Echo Show users.

You can also listen to Amzon music, stream Prime Video, YouTube and more. Plus, it’s your kitchen sidekick for timers, conversions, and shopping lists.

Key features:

• 10.1″ HD screen that’s designed to move with you, video calls and shows are always in view. The speakers deliver premium, directional sound.
• Video call friends and family or take a picture while the 13 MP camera with auto-framing and motion keeps you front and centre.
• Securely access the built-in camera to remotely monitor your home anytime with the Alexa app or other Echo Show devices.
• Ask Alexa to play your favourite shows, music, and podcasts from compatible streaming services.
• Get unit conversions, set timers, add to your grocery list, play music and multitask with ease.
• Use Amazon Photos to turn your home screen into a digital frame
• Place calls to your family and friends’ mobile-phones or make video calls by connecting to another Alexa device. Instantly drop in on other rooms in your home or announce to the whole house that dinner is ready.
• Electronically disconnect the microphones and camera with one press of a button. Slide the built-in shutter to cover the camera. Disable motion at any time.

Available at:

• $429 at Amazon AU
• $398 (usually $429) at MobileCiti

6. Smart washing machine

A smart washing machine that lets you start or schedule a load of laundry from anywhere using your phone. With these devices, you can save time and effort while making everyday tasks easier and more efficient.

Samsung 12kg BESPOKE BubbleWash™ Smart Front Load Washer with AI Wash and Auto Dispense

from $1,511 (was $1,599) at Appliances Online

One of your least fun chores just became a lot easier as this smart washing machine does it all for you. Its AI Wash system selects the perfect settings for each fabric type. With Auto Dispense, it releases just the right amount of detergent and softener.

And with the SmartThings app, you can set and monitor cycles and get notifications from anywhere. Easy, efficient, and hassle-free laundry? Yes, please!

Key features:

• AI Wash Technology: Five smart sensors detect load weight, dirt level, and fabric type to automatically adjust water, detergent, and rinse time.
• Auto Dispense: Automatically adds the right amount of detergent and fabric softener—no guesswork needed. Holds enough for up to a month of washing.
• SmartThings App Control: Connect via Wi-Fi to start, stop or schedule washes from your phone.
• AI Energy Mode: Helps reduce energy use by optimising wash settings—great for eco-conscious households.
• Less Microfibre Cycle: Co-developed with Patagonia, this special cycle reduces microplastic release by up to 54% better for the ocean.
• Hygiene Steam Cycle: Deep-cleans clothes using steam to remove dirt and allergens.
• BubbleWash & BubbleSoak: Creates powerful bubbles for a thorough clean. Optional soak cycle helps lift tough stains.

Available at:

• $1,511 (was $1599 ) at Appliances Online
• $1,475 at Good Guys
• $1,499 (was $1,699) at Samsung

7. Smart doorbell

Investing in a smart doorbell provides some extra security for your home and is handy for answering unexpected knocks, receiving packages when you’re out, or knowing when visitors arrive while you’re busy in the backyard.

Ring Battery Video Doorbell Pro

from $349 from Amazon AU

This Wireless Video Doorbell Ring will help protect your property. With enhanced HD video and Colour Night Vision, you’ll see everything clearly, even in the dark. Plus, 3D Motion Detection lets you track where visitors go with an aerial map view of your property. It’s simple, smart security for your doorstep.

Key features:

• 1536p HD Video: Wireless Video Doorbell camera with the expanded view of 1536p HD Video that lets you see more of whoever stops by.
• Head-to-toe video: Check in on package deliveries at your doorstep and see more of visitors.
• 3D Motion detection: Pinpoint when and where a motion event begins in an aerial map view.
• Low-light sight: Get a clear view of what’s happening at your doorstep as the sun goes down, or even after dark.
• Package alerts: Get real-time notifications when a delivery arrives with the Package Alerts feature, available with a Ring Protect subscription.
• Two-way talk: Speak to whoever’s at your door.
• Works with ALEXA: Pair with a Ring Chime or a compatible Alexa-enabled device to hear audio notifications around your home.
• Standard features such as real-time notifications, Live View and Two-Way Talk are available out of the box and at no additional cost on all compatible Ring devices. Add a Ring Protect Plan (subscription sold separately) to record, review and share the moments you missed (30-day free trial included in your purchase).

Available at:

• $349 at Amazon AU
• $339 at The Good Guys

8. Smart adaptors

Ever wished your appliances were smarter? Enter smart adapters! These nifty devices transform ‘dumb’ appliances into smart ones. You can choose individual adapters for standalone items like lamps or fans, or opt for a smart power board to power multiple devices in one go, such as your TV, smart speaker, Wi-Fi modem, and game console, all in the same area. With smart adapters, you can bring the convenience and control of smart technology to all your household gadgets.

Meross Smart Plug WiFi Outlet with Energy Monitor (4 pack)

from $69.99 at Amazon AU

The Meross Smart Wi-Fi Plug allows you to control your devices from anywhere using your smartphone. It works with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and SmartThings, seamlessly fitting into your smart home setup for ultimate convenience.

Key features:

• Turn devices on/off anywhere anytime with the Meross app.
• Works with Apple HomeKit, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, SmartThings.
• Create on/off schedules or auto-off timers to work automatically.
• Works with the Wi-Fi you already have. No hub required.
• Apple HomeKit website listed.
• Integrates with Home Assistant.

Available at:

• $69.99 at Amazon AU
• $79.95 (2 pack) at Dick Smith
• $26.69 (1 unit) at eBay