Catch up on future home stories in 5 minutes.

A display can help people understand what is happening before panic or confusion spreads through a shared household.

Low-tech backup is still part of a good smart-lock setup. A spare key may solve more real-world access problems than another automation feature.

Before blaming the heating system, measure the room differences that a single hallway thermostat can hide.

Deal filter only. A cheap curtain is not useful if it leaves side gaps or drags on the floor.