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How do you automate your home in 2026?

To automate a home in 2026, start with a hub that speaks Matter and Thread, then add smart lighting, heating, security and a voice or AI assistant. Local-first platforms like Home Assistant give the most control and privacy; ecosystems like Alexa, Google Home and Apple Home are the easiest to start with.

In more detail

Build it in layers: hub first, then lighting and heating (the highest-impact, energy-saving wins), then security, audio and automations. Matter finally lets devices from different brands work together.

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2026 figures, based on Energy Saving Trust, Ofgem & gov.uk data · always confirm with a professional survey.

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