All smart devices, including smart thermostats, need periodic software upgrades. Firmware is the term used to describe the software that powers these intelligent gadgets. Although most modern smart gadgets receive their firmware updates automatically, manual updates may be required on rare occasions.

Can the Ecobee’s Firmware be Updated?

Within a week or two of a new version of Firmware being published, Ecobee thermostats and other devices will automatically update themselves.

There is currently no method to manually update the device if the automatic process fails. Contacting Ecobee support will allow them to release an update to your individual device, fixing the issue.

In this article we will explain how to find out which firmware version your smart thermostat is using, how to find out whether it’s the most recent one, and what to do if the two aren’t in sync.

What’s new on Ecobee Firmware Upgrades?

There is not a lot of information available on how to update your Ecobee. Only the smart thermostats’ current firmware versions and, increasingly, those of their other smart devices have been disclosed. There is no revision history or patch notes to consult.

From the perspective of the general public, updates are released at random intervals spread throughout many weeks. Probably on purpose, if I had to guess. That way, the Ecobee servers won’t be overloaded if everyone decides to upgrade at once.

Distribute updates in stages, first testing them with a small group and then making them available to everyone at once. Why Ecobee doesn’t let consumers manually pull updates after they’ve been available for a while is beyond me. They have said nothing publicly about it.

Does Ecobee Update Automatically?

Automatic software updates are a standard feature of all Ecobee thermostats and other products. After a new firmware version is launched, updates are delivered over the course of a week or two.

Ecobee can only download the update when it is linked to Wi-Fi and online. When necessary, Ecobee Support might force an update to your device.

Failed Ecobee updates are rather regular. True story: it happened to me. Only when I tried to add a sensor did I learn that the Ecobee’s firmware needed to be updated before it would work with the sensor.

This prompted me to consider how I verify firmware versions and how I upgrade my Ecobee to the most recent version.

Ecobee Smart Thermostat: How to Verify Software Updates

There are three methods for determining the firmware version installed on your smart thermostat, but the first step is to know the exact number of the most recent update.

Although Ecobee does not provide a public version history, you may find the most recent update for your smart thermostat on a special portal. The Ecobee Support website is where you can get information about the most recent Ecobee release and version.

Having learned the most recent Ecobee firmware version, you must now check to see whether it matches the one installed on your smart thermostat or other Ecobee product.

These instructions are for the Ecobee 3 lite, which is the thermostat we now use. If you have a different Ecobee product, the instructions should be quite similar.

• Checking the Ecobee Smart Thermostat’s Firmware
• Proceed to the Temperature Control Panel.
• When you get within a few feet of an Ecobee, it does this for you automatically.
• To access this thermostat’s settings, click the menu icon (located in the thermostat’s bottom left corner).
• To learn more, choose “About” from the drop-down menu.
• The software release number is now shown.

https://youtu.be/So1d5-j8FjY?si=xKK9bzaoPUwa-BYl

Here are some Guide:

• Place of Primary Menu Access Button
• The About selection may be found in the Main Menu.
• Informational Page Including the Presently Loaded Firmware Version
• Ecobee App Firmware Verification Procedure
• Since we use a Samsung, the following tips will be tailored to the operating system. The procedure is much the same whether you’re using an Apple.
• Launch the Ecobee mobile application on your portable device.
• The app’s icon may be clicked on. While the app is loading, a splash screen featuring Ecobee will be shown. Your connected devices and their associated details will be shown.
• Select the thermostat you want to inspect by clicking on its name.
• The current temperature and any adjustments made to it will be shown. Here’s the screen where you may change the thermostat settings.
• To access this thermostat’s settings, click the menu icon (located in the thermostat’s bottom left corner).
• To learn more, choose “About” from the drop-down menu.
• The software release number is now shown.

The Ecobee App’s Start Screen, as an Example

• Ecobee App Thermostat Display
• Ecobee’s Smart Thermostat’s About Page
• Checking the Ecobee Website for the Latest Firmware
• Log in to your Ecobee account at Ecobee.com.
• Information about your devices will be shown in a tile-style list manner.
• Select the thermostat you want to inspect by clicking on its name.

The current temperature and any adjustments made to it will be shown. Alternately, you may access the weather and your daily agenda through a separate tile-style menu.

When you go to “About” (the tile in the lower right) the firmware version will show up.

In Progress: Ecobee Website

Device Page on the Ecobee Website

The Ecobee Thermostat Home Screen

Thermostat for the Ecobee Website To Begin With

You may get in touch with Ecobee’s support staff easily by visiting their website. It is possible to contact us through phone, live chat, or electronic mail. They also include Twitter as a means of interaction, which is more widespread in business nowadays.

The longest part of the procedure is making contact with assistance. The update may be sent out in a couple of minutes after you have submitted the appropriate information to the support staff.

https://www.smart-techie.com/how-to-adjust-the-temperature-on-ecobe-smart-thermostat/

Some Ecobee customers have reported waiting 20 minutes or more on the phone before getting through to a representative. The procedure might take several days if you have to respond to emails with follow-up questions and the average response time is 24 hours.

we have found that chatting with Ecobee Support is the most convenient way to have questions answered. If there is a delay, you won’t be stuck listening to music you don’t like while on the phone; instead, you may get other things done.

Our interaction with Ecobee Support was conducted through their chat service. We mentioned the Ecobee thermostat’s current version number and requested an upgrade.

The chat agent verified the details We provided about my device and promised an update would be available soon. Questions of satisfaction and “Can We help you with anything else?” are standard fare when finishing a chat session.

Our Ecobee went through a power cycle in a matter of minutes. There was a sudden blackout followed by a restart. After it had fully booted up again, we checked the version number. After the update, we were able to successfully couple the app with my room sensor.

FAQS

Does Ecobee change the temperature of my home automatically?

Without lifting a finger, you can have your Ecobee Smart Thermostat automatically switch between heating and cooling.

When will Ecobee support my AC?

The thermostat’s current system mode is shown by an icon on the home screen. The word “Cool” is represented by a snowflake, and “Heat” by a candle. The symbol for the active piece of machinery will be colored.

Is a C-wire necessary for Ecobee use?

If you want to learn how to set up your Ecobee thermostat, you may do so by downloading the app (free on iOS and Android). If you don’t have a C wire but have at least four wires at your thermostat (read on if you only have two) the Power Extender Kit (PEK) is for you.

How can I use the Ecobee thermostat with the app?

Setting up and managing your Ecobee devices is a breeze with the Ecobee app. You can manage your Ecobee thermostat together with your Ecobee Smart Security cameras, sensors, and lights. The Ecobee app may be downloaded on iOS and Android devices.

 

When it comes to Smart TVs, LG is a top contender. The two most common brands of televisions are LG and Samsung, so it’s likely that you own one of them.

You may be familiar with LG TV Plus if you own an LG Smart TV. You were confused when you first heard that term, so perhaps we can explain it to you.

LG TV Plus: what is it? LG TV Plus is a remote-control software for LG Smart TVs with WebOS that was formerly available on iOS and Android smartphones.

The software’s other features include the ability to transfer files between the device on which the app is installed and other devices. Another option is LG’s ThinQ app.

The more you studied about the LG TV Plus app, the more confused you became. We had the software downloaded and set up in no time. We will just list everything We have picked up since then. We do like to think I’ve addressed all of your queries as well.

LG TV Plus: what is it?

It’s important to clarify that LG TV Plus is not the same as Samsung TV Plus. Samsung’s TV app, TV Plus, and LG’s TV Plus provide distinct functions. The LG TV Plus app may take the place of the traditional remote control. For those who possess a Samsung Galaxy mobile, there is the Samsung TV Plus app.

If you own a Samsung Galaxy mobile and like watching TV while you’re away from the TV, you should give Samsung TV Plus a try. Why not give it a try since it’s completely free?

Because we’re already discussing Samsung, and since I want to make this perfectly apparent even for those who just scan the text, let me quickly answer a question we have raised.

The question is whether or not LG offers TV Plus. Unlike the Samsung TV Plus software for Galaxy smartphones, LG’s LG TV Plus app only serves as a remote control for your LG Smart TV and does not transmit live TV to your phone.

But, the subject of this piece is LG TV Plus. Before we even started the installation process, we wondered whether it would work with my LG smart TV. In a nutshell, LG TV Plus is compatible with WebOS-powered LG smart Televisions produced after 2014. In 2017, LG also made a projector that is compatible with TV Plus.

Does LG’s TV Plus cost anything?

The LG TV Plus app allows you to manage your LG Smart TV from your mobile device and is available for free with no in-app purchases. You needed those two pieces of information before You could download the software.

https://youtu.be/YhWOH6pNjE8?si=JNP4I6N0KCr9whj1

LG Smart TV and LG TV Plus: Setting Up the Connection

• Getting LG TV Plus set up and linked to your LG Smart TV
• Both Android and iOS users may download the LG TV Plus app. To get it from your device’s app store, click the buttons below.
• For the Google Play app store, please visit:
• App Store for Apple Devices: Tap Here
• Launch the LG Smart TV.
• It is not a stage to be skipped! After accepting the terms of service, the LG TV Plus app will instantly begin looking for your LG smart TV.
• When prompted by the App Permission Guide, click “OK.”
• A notification that an Android system pop-up is going to appear. This alert explains why the LG Plus TV app needs access to certain features.
• To provide LG TV Plus permission to access your files, choose “Allow.”

When an app on an Android smartphone needs access to certain data on your device, this prompt will appear. For the app to access my media, You granted permission for it to read from my storage. If you don’t feel like doing this right now, that’s OK.

When the LG ThinQ app’s service guide pops up, tap “Close.”

This next step seems unnecessary and annoying, but it does encourage you to download the LG ThinQ app. What we have heard is that it’s not as effective as this software, but I haven’t used it myself.

To agree to the terms of the license, click the “Accept” button.

https://www.smart-techie.com/whats-a-different-between-the-lg-smart-tv-and-android-tv/

Standard end-user license agreement found after program installation. There were no big shocks that were seen, but it’s still a good idea to read the fine print before signing anything. If you don’t accept these terms, you can’t use the app.

The gadget will try to find your TV. When the LG Smart TV menu displays, choose it.

My television was delivered to me in record time. Just tapping the displayed brand name will choose that TV.

Input the number that appears on your LG smart TV screen.

A code will appear on the chosen TV once you make your selection. The app will urge you to enter this information.

Connecting your LG Smart TV is complete. Your mobile device is now linked to [TV NAME], and a system notice should appear on your phone to that effect.

A numeric keypad including volume and channel settings as well as, other choices will appear on the screen. It follows the same basic structure as the actual LG magic remote.

You have successfully downloaded and set up the app and linked it to your TV. It’s time to master the app’s interface!

How does LG’s TV Plus function?

LG TV Plus’s layout is fashioned after that of the LG magic remote. The LG TV Plus app functions similarly to a conventional remote control, except instead of physically manipulating the controller, the user may make cursor movements using a touchpad. The app offers a unique menu structure.

Let’s have a look at the app’s features and functionality. We’ll start with the keypad and work our way up to the rest of the buttons on the actual LG magic remote.

Number Pad for LG TVs

As soon as you launch the app, you’ll be presented with a numeric keypad. This keypad’s layout is identical to that of a standard remote control. The volume and channel controls are located underneath the numeric keypad.

Differences between the app and the real remote control become more apparent between the volume and channel buttons. OK, Mute, and 3D are the three options available there in the software. The mystical controller has a Search button and a Mute button.

Using the remaining buttons on the magic remote, we can now access the LG TV Plus app’s other displays. There are two choices available in the app, both of which can be found by tapping the “Remote Control” tab at the top.

Pink highlights indicate that you are now working with the numeric keypad. To go to a different page, click the arrow symbol in the circle.

Pad for Navigating the LG TV Plus

Again, the design is almost identical to that of the magic remote, with a few key distinctions. Up, down, left, right, and OK form a circle around an “OK” button. The scroll bar is absent.

The home button is in the usual spot on the top left, the same as it is on the remote, however, the “STB Menu” button has been replaced with a button that toggles between the touchpad and the circle selector.

The “Caption” button on the right has been replaced with a “Leave” button, however, the “Back” button on the left remains the same.

The following set of buttons on the magic remote—3D, input selection, and settings—are ignored in the program.

There includes a standard set of video and audio controls besides a row of brightly coloured shortcut buttons. The app no longer has a focus button.

Touchpad and Scrollbar for LG TVs

Let’s have a look at the touchpad by pressing the button in the upper right corner of the circle. On the app, the pointer is managed by this touchpad, however, on the magic remote, the pointer is moved by physically shifting the remote.

When you move the mouse over an option and want to choose it, just tap the touchpad.

Do you recall that the previous page had no scroll bar? That used to be on the desktop, but now it’s on the touchpad page. Take note of the thin, dark grey strip that runs vertically down the right edge of the touchpad. Use an up or down swipe to scroll.

Toggle LG TV Plus Menu

Next, we’ll have a look at the app’s “TV Menu” section, which provides access to the following submenu when activated:

• TV Off
• Search
• Apps for TV
• Channel Guide
• Video Inputs
• Transfer Screens
• TV Preferences

Search, TV Inputs, and TV Settings are all buttons that have been relocated from their original positions as compared to the magic remote.

You may have also observed that there’s a button to press to turn the TV off, but none to press to turn it on. You’ll need to use the actual remote or the TV’s controls to power it on. The LG TV Plus app will not power up your LG smart TV automatically.

Even though there is an option that allows applications to switch on your TV, the LG TV Plus app is unable to do so. Choose “Mobile TV On” under “General” if you wish to verify this for yourself. You’ll want to flip the switch from its off position to the on position.

 

If you choose this option, your TV will use more power since it will be connected to Wi-Fi at all times, not just during usage.

The TV App List will display a list of all the applications on your phone’s screen. This list is far more user-friendly than the TV’s app listing.

If you have an antenna connected to your TV and are curious about the stations you may get, the Channel List is a useful resource for you.

The software makes it simple to use this function. While utilizing your LG smart TV, we feel like it’s buried a little bit. When the Live TV input mode is selected, you must move the cursor to the right side of the display. Channel List and Suggested will display in a lateral menu.

Sharing your screen is merely a quick way to use this feature without digging through the menus.

Conclusion

As far as I can tell, that’s all there is to the LG TV Plus app. Since I can’t switch the TV on using the app, and because using the Magic Remote is much quicker, I find that I wind up using it most of the time.

But, if the TV is already on, or if someone else has the remote, I will utilize the app. The LG TV Plus app is what I’ll use to navigate between TV applications. Simply said, it’s a breeze to work with.

Smart plugs have the potential to have a major effect home beyond initial expectations. These devices are engineered to enhance the intelligence of conventional appliances by serving as intermediaries between a plug and a power socket, regulating the flow of electricity.

The smart plugs can be conveniently managed and supervised through a mobile device such as a smartphone or tablet, regardless of whether the user is at home or away.

Smart plugs offer many kinds of benefits across different fields. By utilizing this particular device, users are able to effectively deactivate electronic devices that are connected to inconveniently positioned wall outlets, such as those located behind furniture or in hard-to-access areas.

Moreover, users have the ability to precisely regulate the timing for activating or deactivating their lighting fixtures or any other electrical devices. A few smart plugs offer the capability to monitor energy consumption, thereby enabling users to modify their behaviors in order to achieve cost savings on utility bills.

Moreover, in the event of forgetting to deactivate one, a simple solution would be to consult one’s mobile device.

What is Samsung SmartThings?

Even though there are a lot of different types of smart plugs available to buy, Samsung SmartThings Plugs have managed to earn quite a good name for themselves in the industry. They have been referred to as transforming the idea of a “connected house” into the notion of a “Smart home.”

Through the use of the SmartThings app and the smart plugs that are compatible with SmartThings, you will be able to manage and monitor the wall plugs and appliances in your home.

The SmartThings platform, which includes the software, will continue to be marketed as SmartThings, even though the SmartThings hardware has been renamed Aeotec hardware. This is an important point to keep in mind.

Having said that, there are a great many smart plugs available, and they come from a wide variety of companies, each of which claims that their product is compatible with SmartThings.

As a consequence of this, it could be challenging to choose which of those smart plugs is the most suitable option for your house.

We have compiled this list of the best smart plugs that are compatible with SmartThings to assist you in making an informed decision when selecting

the SmartThings plug that will allow you to automate more of your home’s functions, reduce your overall energy consumption, and enhance the convenience of your living space.

We have included both an indoor and an outdoor option for your convenience.

1.   The Aeotec Smart Switch 7 Smart Plug

 

Z-Wave Plus S2 Wireless Control Socket Zwave Plug for Home Automation, 15A, Gen7, White Aeotec Smart Switch 7.

Verdict

The conclusion The Smart Plug is a practical device that can readily connect with a variety of electronic gadgets.

The only thing it doesn’t have is a USB port, but other than that, it checks all of the boxes: it’s convenient, it saves money, it protects against surges, and it has an incredible wireless range.

Benefits

• Surge protection provides a longer lifespan
• The wireless signal may travel up to a distance of 492 feet.
• After an issue that may have been caused by a malfunction, the system can be reset by pressing only one button.

Drawbacks

• Lacking compatibility with the Apple Home Kit
• The device cannot function without a Z-Wave Hub.

This is the Smart Plug that you’ve been looking for if you’ve been on the market for an economical and cost-effective option that also has a dependable connection for usage indoors. Additionally, it is made in such a way that it will not obstruct the outlet that is plugged in directly next to it.

For you to utilize it, you will need a Z-wave hub, which is another thing that should be mentioned.

Remote control, as well as voice instructions, are both acceptable ways to use it. The SmartThings app makes it very simple to establish a connection with it.

2.   A smart plug manufactured by Sengled

Sengled Smart Plugs, Hub Required, Sengled Smart Plugs, Compatible with Amazon Echo devices and SmartThings when used with the integrated hub, Control of your home with your voice using Alexa and Google Home, 15Amp Smart Socket, Zigbee Repeater Capable, ETL Listed, Work as a Zigbee Repeater 2 Pack

Verdict

This Smart Plug is on the smaller side, but it packs a punch in terms of functionality, so if you like designs that are minimalistic and streamlined, you’ll love it.

https://www.smart-techie.com/why-do-some-smart-bulbs-need-a-hub-and-how-to-pick-the-right-one/

It has two sockets, which will result in a reduction in the amount of space and energy required.

Benefits

• Appropriate for use in private residences in addition to smaller commercial establishments
• Set the timer’s functions at the appropriate intervals.
• Compatible with a large majority of devices in their compact form

Drawbacks

• Negative aspects include a need for a high rate of communication

Any device that requires more than 15 amps of current at 120 volts will not function properly when plugged into this outlet.

Even though it is not a WiFi plug, this energy-saving Zigbee Smart Plug does need a Sengled Smart hub for the connection to work properly. Setting up or pairing with the SmartThings app won’t need a whole day’s worth of work on your part.

It is not prohibitively expensive, and when you retrieve the box after making payment, you will find that you have been given two packets.

3.   Z-Wave Plus Outlet Smart Plug

Minos ton Z-Wave Plus Outlet, Mini Plug-in Socket, 15A, Z-Wave Hub Required, Built-in Repeater/Range Extender, Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, integrate seamlessly with SmartThings, Wink, Alexa, and Google Assistant; FCC and ETL Listed (MP21Z)

Verdict

You have complete discretion over the operation of each of your home’s appliances. A robust wireless network with an extremely large range for residential houses. An option that is less expensive than the majority of the SmartThings Plugs.

Benefits

• The lifespan of an item may be increased by using surge protection.
• The Z-wave network can easily accommodate more devices, and its range extends up to a distance of 150 feet.

Drawbacks

• If the floor space of your house is more than 300 square feet, some electronic equipment may experience signal interference.

The SmartThings plug supports hands-free voice control for added convenience, enables you to schedule or time when you want to power on your devices, is compatible with Z-wave gateways, and features a built-in signal repeater for a longer wireless range.

Other features include the ability to schedule or time when you want to power on your devices; you can also schedule or time when you want to power off your devices.

It is simple to integrate with the SmartThings app and simple to use, even for inexperienced users. Have we also mentioned that it is available at a price that is quite reasonable?

4.   SYLVANIA SMART+ ZigBee Smart Plug

One pack of the SYLVANIA Smart ZigBee Smart Plug, which is compatible with SmartThings, Wink, and Amazon Echo Plus and requires a hub for use with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa.

Verdict

Excellent quality combined with simple installation and straightforward pairing. Your work will be more enjoyable if it is compatible with the most recent wireless connection standards.

Benefits

• Zigbee is available at a more reasonable price point than Z-wave.
• Requires no complicated setup instructions
• Control of your voice is accessible via a hub that is compatible with your device.

Drawbacks

• Extremely spacious, and it encompasses not one but two outlets.
• Requires a suitable hub

You should anticipate that an ideal Samsung Smart Plug would include a timer feature that enables you to set when you will either turn on an appliance or light at defined times or turn it off entirely, and this capability is found on this product.

It is one of the most effective smart plugs available, and it is compatible with the SmartThings app. It is suggested for use in holiday decorations since Christmas lights need to be turned on and off at certain intervals, which can only be accomplished with a Plug such as this one.

5.   GE Enbrighten Z-Wave Plus Smart Plug

 

Enbrighten Z-Wave Plus Smart Outdoor Switch, 1-Outlet Plug-In (2nd Gen.), Weather-Resistant, 14298, Black, Compatible with Alexa and Google Assistant, Landscape and Seasonal Lighting, Requires Z-Wave Hub, Works with

Verdict

A smart plug that is both durable and useful, developed specifically for use in outdoor environments and featuring an increased wireless range. Not lacking in any manner, the additional functions that are often included in similar products.

Benefits

• Z-advantage waves include the ability for users to combine a wide variety of different devices.
• Compact design saves outdoor space

Drawbacks

• Because Z-wave relies on radio frequency communication, it is very easy for hackers to get into your network.
• Z-wave has restrictions on the total number of switches that may be linked to it.

https://youtu.be/8lRaxjf-JrI?si=EVIyAYtw_d0kj4jN

The fact that it has such a robust appearance leads one to believe that it was constructed to withstand any adverse climatic circumstances.

Because it is resistant to water, it is an excellent choice for usage next to water features such as fountains and swimming pools. When it is positioned correctly, the receptacle for grounding should have its front facing downward.

This shields it from other debris and direct showers as well as protects it from the elements. It provides access to the same supplementary functions, such as voice control and automated scheduling, that you would anticipate seeing on an indoor Smart Plug.

6.   Meross Outdoor Smart Plug is our number six product.

meross outdoor smart plug, outdoor wifi outlet with two grounded outlets, remote control, timer, and water resistance FCC Certified, Non-Hong Kong, 2.4Ghz Only, Compatible with Amazon Alexa, SmartThings, and Google Assistant

Verdict

Developed to perform reliably even in the face of adverse climatic conditions when used in the open air.

A robust network that is not only inexpensive but also simple to integrate with the SmartThings app to provide straightforward voice integration.

Benefits

• Rugged construction is capable of withstanding severe external conditions.
• Convenient Voice integration
• Featuring a casing that is resistant to fire and an overload protection circuit
• Negative aspects of the Meross app include the fact that it may experience sporadic hiccups.
• In terms of security, it has been FCC and ETL-approved, and it offers a dependable connection. If you need to power an appliance in your garden, garage, basement, or balcony, you may find it in this brand.

FAQ About the SmartThings Smart Plug

What is a Samsung Smart Plug?

The Samsung Smart Plug is a Wi-Fi-enabled plug that gives you the ability to manage all of the gadgets and appliances you use regularly in your home from the SmartThings App on your mobile phone or tablet.

You can do this by making a simple touch on your phone or by giving voice commands. Your house will thereafter be considered a “Smart home” as a result.

How do I connect the Smart Plug that comes with SmartThings?

Carefully remove the Smart Plug from its packaging, and then attach it to the plug outlet (which will often have three prongs) in your house. Please be patient and wait until the indicator on the SmartThings Smart Plug begins to flicker.

Launch the SmartThings app on your portable electronic device, whether it is a smartphone or a tablet. Select the plus sign or the Add icon. After that, choose the ‘device’ option.

Tap Outlet followed by SmartThings inside the choice for the device.

Choose Wi-Fi Smart Plug, then hit the Start button.

When this occurs, the indicator light that is shown on the Smart Plug will stop flashing and instead display a steady light. When this occurs, the connection between your SmartThings Plug and your device has been completed successfully.

How do I utilize the outlet that comes with Samsung SmartThings?

Controlling and monitoring the lights, electronics, and other home appliances in your house may be accomplished with the usage of the Samsung SmartThings outlet.

In addition to this, it can be used to program the times of day when the lights, devices, and appliances in your house will turn on and off.