Samsung Bespoke 4-Door Flex with AI Family Hub+ and AI Vision Inside

The modern smart home has a new centerpiece, and it’s not another speaker or display. It’s the refrigerator. For years, the concept of a “smart fridge” has been a bit of a running joke in the tech world—a solution in search of a problem. But Samsung’s latest offering, the Bespoke 29 Cu. Ft. 4-Door Flex French Door Smart Refrigerator with AI Family Hub+ and AI Vision Inside, is a serious attempt to change that narrative. We’ve spent the last few weeks with this stainless steel behemoth, and we’re ready to tell you if the future of the kitchen has finally arrived.

First Impressions: More Than Just a Pretty Face

Before we even get to the tech, it’s worth noting that this is a beautiful appliance. The “Bespoke” in the name refers to the customizable door panels, a feature we’re seeing more of and are big fans of. While our review unit came in a classic stainless steel, the option to swap out colors and finishes is a welcome departure from the one-size-fits-all approach of most appliances. The four-door design is sleek and modern, with recessed handles that contribute to a clean, minimalist aesthetic. This is a refrigerator that will undoubtedly elevate the look of any kitchen it graces.

The Main Event: The AI Family Hub+

The star of the show is, without a doubt, the massive 32-inch touchscreen that Samsung calls the AI Family Hub+. This isn’t just a glorified tablet slapped on a fridge door. It’s a comprehensive command center for your kitchen and your life. The screen is bright, responsive, and surprisingly intuitive to use. Here’s a breakdown of what it can do:

• Family Communication: The digital whiteboard is a fun and practical way to leave notes for family members. You can also share photos and videos directly from your phone, turning your fridge into a dynamic digital picture frame. The shared calendar functionality is a game-changer for busy families, syncing everyone’s schedules in one central location.
• Entertainment: Why should the living room have all the fun? The Family Hub+ can stream music from popular services like Spotify, and you can even mirror content from your Samsung TV. This means you can keep up with the game or your favorite show while you’re cooking.
• Smart Home Control: With a built-in SmartThings Hub, this refrigerator can act as the command center for your entire smart home. You can control lights, thermostats, and other connected devices right from the fridge door. It also has Alexa built-in, so you can use your voice to control your smart home, get the weather, and more.
• Meal Planning and Recipes: The Family Hub+ integrates with Samsung’s Food app, which boasts a massive library of over 160,000 recipes. You can find recipes based on your dietary needs and preferences, and the app will even help you create a weekly meal plan.

AI Vision Inside: A Glimpse into the Future (with some caveats)

This is where things get really interesting. The AI Vision Inside feature uses a camera to identify what’s inside your fridge. In theory, this is a revolutionary idea. Imagine being at the grocery store and being able to see if you’re out of milk with a quick glance at your phone.

In practice, the AI Vision Inside is a bit of a mixed bag. It can recognize up to 33 different fresh food items, and it does a decent job of it. However, it’s not perfect. We found that it sometimes misidentified items, and it can’t see anything in the door bins or the freezer. You can manually add items to the inventory, but that defeats the purpose of the AI.

That being said, when it works, it’s incredibly useful. The refrigerator can automatically add items to your shopping list when you’re running low, and it can even suggest recipes based on the ingredients you have on hand. This is a feature with a ton of potential, and we’re excited to see how it improves with future software updates.

Beyond the Smarts: How it Performs as a Refrigerator

With all this talk of AI and touchscreens, it’s easy to forget that this is, first and foremost, a refrigerator. And on that front, it excels. The 29 cubic feet of space is more than enough for a large family. The FlexZone, a compartment that can be converted from a refrigerator to a freezer, is a brilliant touch of versatility. The Beverage Center, with its autofill water pitcher and internal water dispenser, is a convenient and well-designed feature. And the dual ice maker, which produces both cubed ice and smaller “ice bites,” is a crowd-pleaser.

The Verdict: A Smart Investment for the Tech-Forward Household

The Samsung Bespoke 4-Door Flex French Door Smart Refrigerator with AI Family Hub+ and AI Vision Inside is not for everyone. It’s a premium appliance with a premium price tag. But for those who are all-in on the smart home and want a refrigerator that does more than just keep food cold, it’s a compelling option.

The AI Family Hub+ is a genuinely useful tool for managing a busy household, and the AI Vision Inside, while not perfect, is a tantalizing glimpse into the future of the kitchen. If you’re looking for a refrigerator that is as smart as it is stylish, this is the one to beat.

The Tech Review Rating: 4.5/5 Stars

Pros:

• Stunning, customizable design
• The AI Family Hub+ is a powerful and intuitive command center
• Excellent performance as a refrigerator with versatile storage options
• Seamless integration with the SmartThings ecosystem

Cons:

• AI Vision Inside can be inaccurate at times
• Premium price tag

The Revolution R180 Connect Plus Smart Toaster

The humble toaster, a kitchen staple for generations, is getting a serious upgrade in the form of the Revolution R180 Connect Plus Smart Toaster. Promising perfectly browned slices with a host of intelligent features, this isn’t your grandma’s pop-up. We at The Tech Review put this high-tech appliance through its paces to see if it truly revolutionizes breakfast or if it’s just another case of tech overkill in the kitchen

Design and Build Quality:

Out of the box, the Revolution R180 Connect Plus Smart Toaster makes a statement. Its sleek, stainless steel construction exudes a premium feel, and the large 7-inch full-color LCD touchscreen immediately catches the eye. This isn’t a toaster you’ll want to hide away in a cupboard. The two wide slots can accommodate various bread types, from standard sandwich bread to bagels and even thicker slices. The inclusion of an easy-click, removable crumb tray is a thoughtful touch, with the toaster even reminding you on-screen when it’s “Time to clean.”

Smart Features and Performance:

The “smart” in this smart toaster truly shines through its intuitive touchscreen interface. Navigating through the various options is a breeze. You can select from over 40 food settings, including specific options for different types of bread, English muffins, bagels, waffles, and even gluten-free bread. Three toasting modes – fresh, frozen, and reheat – cater to various needs.

The cornerstone of the Revolution R180 Connect Plus Smart Toaster is its patented InstaGLO 2.0 Heating System. This re-engineered technology promises ultra-fast and efficient toasting, browning bread in a fraction of the time compared to conventional toasters. In our testing, the toaster lived up to this claim, delivering evenly toasted slices incredibly quickly. The InstaGLO system seems to work its magic by creating a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft – a noticeable improvement over some traditional toasters that can dry out bread.

Beyond basic toasting, the R180 Connect Plus offers a “Toastie Press mode” for use with a separately purchased panini press attachment, adding versatility to its repertoire. You can also adjust the screen brightness and chime volume to your preference.

Connectivity and Extras:

The “Connect Plus” in the name refers to the toaster’s Wi-Fi connectivity. Connecting it to your home network unlocks several additional features. The toaster automatically sets the date, day of the week, and time, displaying it on the screen in either a digital or analog format. It also provides a live, local, on-screen weather forecast – a surprisingly handy feature to glance at while preparing your breakfast.

Perhaps the most unique and arguably “extra” feature is the toaster’s photo frame capability. You can upload up to 24 photos via Wi-Fi, which will cycle through on the LCD screen when the toaster is not in use. While a fun novelty, some users might find this feature a bit excessive for a kitchen appliance.

User Experience:

Using the Revolution R180 Connect Plus Smart Toaster is a pleasant experience overall. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to navigate, making it simple to select your desired settings. The automatic lowering and lifting of the bread, accompanied by an on-screen countdown timer and a cheerful finishing chime, add a touch of modern convenience. The dynamic home screen learns your most frequently used settings and moves them to the top for quicker access.

What’s Good

• Ultra-fast and even toasting: The InstaGLO 2.0 system delivers excellent results quickly.
• Intuitive touchscreen interface: Easy to navigate with a wide range of options.
• Smart toasting algorithms: Adjusts heating based on bread type and other factors.
• Wi-Fi connectivity: Enables automatic time/date setting and weather forecasts.
• Photo frame capability: A unique, albeit potentially unnecessary, feature for some.
• Removable crumb tray with cleaning reminder: Enhances ease of maintenance.
• Sleek and modern design: Looks great on any countertop.

What’s Not So Good

• Price: This toaster comes with a premium price tag, which may not be justifiable for all users.
• Photo frame feature: Might be considered superfluous by some.
• Grilled cheese/panini requires a separate attachment: Adds to the overall cost.
  

Conclusion

The Revolution R180 Connect Plus Smart Toaster is an impressive piece of kitchen technology that successfully blends high-performance toasting with a suite of smart and innovative features. It excels at its primary function – making perfectly toasted bread quickly and consistently. The intuitive touchscreen and smart algorithms take the guesswork out of breakfast preparation.

However, the premium price point and the inclusion of features like the digital photo frame might make it a tougher sell for those simply seeking a reliable toaster without all the bells and whistles. If you’re a tech enthusiast who appreciates a touch of modernity in your kitchen and values perfectly toasted bread above all else, the Revolution R180 Connect Plus might just be the appliance you’ve been waiting for. But for those on a tighter budget or who prefer a more traditional approach to breakfast, there are certainly other excellent toasting options available.

Ultimately, the Revolution R180 Connect Plus Smart Toaster offers a glimpse into the future of kitchen appliances, where even the simplest tasks are enhanced with intelligent technology. Whether that future is right for your countertop depends on your budget and your appetite for smart home integration.

Have you ever driven away from your house, only to be plagued by that nagging doubt: “Did I remember to close the garage door?” For many homeowners, the garage door is the most frequently used entry point, and knowing its status can bring immense peace of mind. The good news is, you don’t need to be a tech wizard to gain this control. Smart garage door openers are designed to make your life easier, allowing you to monitor and operate your garage door from virtually anywhere using your smartphone.

This article will break down how these clever devices work, what features to look for, and compare some popular options, all in language that won’t make your head spin.

What Exactly is a Smart Garage Door Opener?

Think of it as giving your existing garage door opener a brain. Instead of just a wall button or a remote control, a smart garage door opener connects your garage to your home’s Wi-Fi network. This connection allows you to use a dedicated app on your smartphone to:

• Open and close your garage door remotely: Whether you’re at work, on vacation, or just down the street, you can operate your garage door with a tap on your phone.
• Check the status of your garage door: No more guessing! The app will tell you if your garage door is open or closed, so you can confirm its status instantly.
• Receive alerts and notifications: Get a ping on your phone if your garage door is opened or closed, or if it’s been left open for too long. This is incredibly helpful for security and peace of mind.
• Grant temporary access: Need to let a delivery person in or allow a friend to borrow something while you’re out? Many systems allow you to provide temporary access without sharing your house keys or codes.
• Set schedules: Some smart openers let you program your door to close at a specific time each night, or open for a few minutes in the morning.

How Does it Work for the Non-Techie?

Most smart garage door opener systems come in two main flavors:

1. Replacement Openers: These are entirely new garage door opener units that have smart technology built right in. If your current opener is old or needs replacing, this is a good all-in-one solution.
2. Retrofit Kits (Smart Controllers): These are devices that you add to your existing garage door opener. They act as a bridge between your old opener and your Wi-Fi network, giving it smart capabilities. This is a popular and often more affordable option if your current opener is working fine.

For both types, the basic setup usually involves:

• A main unit (hub or opener): This is the brains of the operation, connecting to your Wi-Fi.
• A door sensor: This small sensor attaches to your garage door itself and tells the main unit whether the door is open or closed.
• A smartphone app: This is your control center, where you’ll interact with your garage door.

The installation process is generally designed to be straightforward. Many manufacturers provide clear instructions, and some even offer helpful video tutorials. If you can plug in a lamp and follow simple steps, you can likely install a retrofit kit yourself. Replacing an entire opener might require a bit more effort, but still often comes with user-friendly guides.

What to Look For: Key Features and Specs

When considering a smart garage door opener, here are some important features and specifications to keep in mind:

• Compatibility: If you’re going with a retrofit kit, ensure it’s compatible with your existing garage door opener’s brand and model (most work with openers manufactured after 1993).
• Smartphone App (iOS/Android): All smart openers rely on an app. Check reviews for ease of use, reliability, and features. Ensure it’s available for your smartphone (iPhone or Android).
• Wi-Fi Connectivity: Most operate on your home’s 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network. Make sure your garage has a strong Wi-Fi signal.
• Notifications: Look for real-time alerts for open/close status, and customizable notifications (e.g., “door left open for 10 minutes”).
• Scheduling: The ability to set schedules for automatic closing or opening can be a convenient feature.
• Voice Assistant Integration (Alexa, Google Assistant, HomeKit): If you use smart speakers like Amazon Echo or Google Home, or an Apple HomeKit setup, check if the opener can integrate for voice control.
• Security Features: Some offer extra security, like automatic garage door locks or two-way audio with integrated cameras.
• Battery Backup: For full replacement openers, a battery backup ensures you can still operate your garage door during a power outage.
• Multi-Door Support: If you have more than one garage door, some systems allow you to control multiple doors with a single hub (often requiring additional door sensors).

Current Smart Garage Door Opener Systems: Options for Every Homeowner

Let’s look at some popular and well-regarded smart garage door opener systems available today, balancing ease of use for the non-techie with important features and pricing.

1. Chamberlain MyQ Smart Garage Control (Retrofit Kit)

This is one of the most popular and budget-friendly options for turning your existing garage door opener into a smart one.

• How it Works: The MyQ Smart Garage Control kit consists of a Wi-Fi hub that plugs into an outlet in your garage and a sensor that attaches to your garage door. The hub communicates with your existing garage door opener (via a wired connection to your opener’s wall control or by “learning” your opener’s frequency) and the sensor monitors the door’s position. You control it all through the MyQ app.
• Specs & Features:
  • Compatibility: Works with most garage door openers manufactured after 1993 (check MyQ’s compatibility tool for your specific model).
  • Smartphone App: MyQ app (iOS and Android) – user-friendly interface for remote control, status checks, and notifications.
  • Notifications: Real-time alerts for open/close status.
  • Scheduling: Yes, you can set schedules.
  • Voice Assistant Integration: Google Assistant, IFTTT, Vivint Smart Home, XFINITY Home, Amazon Key (for in-garage deliveries). Note: Does NOT natively support Amazon Alexa.
  • Security: Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) integration for easier setup.
  • Multi-Door Support: The hub can control up to two doors, but you’ll need to purchase an additional door sensor for the second door.
• Positives:
  • Very affordable: One of the most budget-friendly ways to add smart control.
  • Easy installation: Generally quick and straightforward to set up, often within 15-20 minutes.
  • Reliable app: The MyQ app is well-regarded for its intuitive design and clear instructions.
  • Amazon Key integration: Convenient for in-garage package deliveries.
• Negatives:
  • No native Amazon Alexa support: This is a significant drawback for Alexa users.
  • Occasional Wi-Fi connectivity issues: Some users report intermittent connection problems, though many have a seamless experience.
  • No geofencing: Doesn’t automatically open or close the door based on your phone’s location (you have to manually trigger it).
• Pricing: Around $30-$40. Additional door sensors are typically around $20.

2. Genie Aladdin Connect Smart Garage Door Controller (Retrofit Kit)

Genie, a well-known name in garage door openers, offers its own retrofit solution that brings smart capabilities to a wide range of existing openers.

• How it Works: Similar to MyQ, the Aladdin Connect kit includes a main controller unit that wires into your existing opener’s wall control and a door position sensor. It uses your home’s Wi-Fi to connect to the Aladdin Connect app.
• Specs & Features:
  • Compatibility: Works with most garage door openers, including Genie, Overhead Door, Linear, Marantec, Stanley, Craftsman, Wayne Dalton, Chamberlain, and LiftMaster (check their compatibility list).
  • Smartphone App: Aladdin Connect app (iOS and Android) – offers remote control, status monitoring, and usage history.
  • Notifications: Alerts for door open/close status.
  • Scheduling: Yes, customizable schedules.
  • Voice Assistant Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant.
  • Multi-Door Support: The standard kit supports one door, but you can add up to two more door position sensors for a total of three doors.
• Positives:
  • Broad compatibility: Works with a wide variety of garage door opener brands.
  • Includes voice assistant support: A big plus for those already using Alexa or Google Assistant.
  • No subscription fees: A one-time purchase.
  • Easy installation: Many users find the setup process simple, especially with video tutorials.
• Negatives:
  • May require wiring: Some users find the wiring process slightly more involved than other retrofit kits, but it’s still generally manageable for a DIYer.
  • No HomeKit support: If you’re an Apple HomeKit user, this isn’t natively compatible.
• Pricing: Around $60-$70. Additional door sensors are around $40.

3. Meross Smart Wi-Fi Garage Door Opener Remote (Retrofit Kit)

The Meross smart garage opener often stands out as a strong budget contender, offering excellent functionality for its price point.

• How it Works: The Meross device connects directly to your existing garage door opener’s wall control wires and includes a magnetic sensor for the door’s open/close status. It connects to your home’s 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network.
• Specs & Features:
  • Compatibility: Works with most garage door openers (check Meross’s compatibility list or use their online tool).
  • Smartphone App: Meross app (iOS and Android) – provides remote control, status, and notifications.
  • Notifications: Real-time alerts.
  • Scheduling: Yes, supports scheduling.
  • Voice Assistant Integration: Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, Apple HomeKit, IFTTT, and SmartThings.
  • Security: Auto-close feature after a set time.
  • Multi-Door Support: Some models can operate two garage doors.
• Positives:
  • Excellent value: Very competitive pricing for the features offered.
  • Wide smart home integration: Supports all major voice assistants, including Apple HomeKit, which is a big selling point for Apple users.
  • Reliable wired connection: Less prone to false errors compared to some wireless sensors.
  • Auto-close feature: Adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
• Negatives:
  • Installation can be slightly more involved: Requires connecting wires directly to your opener’s wall control terminals.
  • No geofencing: Similar to others, it doesn’t automatically open when you approach.
• Pricing: Around $30-$40.

4. LiftMaster Smart Garage Door Openers (Full Replacement)

LiftMaster, like its sister company Chamberlain, offers a range of full garage door openers with MyQ technology built-in. If you’re looking to replace your entire opener, these are excellent, robust options.

• How it Works: These are complete garage door opener units that come with integrated MyQ Wi-Fi connectivity. You replace your old opener with a new LiftMaster model.
• Specs & Features (vary by model, but generally include):
  • Lifting Power: Often powerful motors (e.g., 1.25 HP equivalent or more) suitable for heavy doors.
  • Drive Type: Belt drive (quieter) or chain drive (more economical).
  • Smartphone App: MyQ app (iOS and Android) for full control, monitoring, and notifications.
  • Notifications: Comprehensive alerts.
  • Scheduling: Yes.
  • Voice Assistant Integration: Google Assistant, IFTTT, Amazon Key. Still no native Amazon Alexa support.
  • Battery Backup: Many models include a battery backup for operation during power outages.
  • Integrated Camera: Some higher-end models feature a built-in camera for real-time video monitoring.
  • LED Lighting: Often include bright, long-lasting LED lighting.
  • Security: Advanced security features like automatic garage door locks.
• Positives:
  • All-in-one solution: Get a new, reliable opener with smart features built-in.
  • Quiet operation: Many models feature ultra-quiet belt drives.
  • Enhanced security: Often include additional security features like battery backup and integrated cameras.
  • Durability: Known for their robust construction and long warranties.
• Negatives:
  • Higher cost: Significantly more expensive than retrofit kits.
  • Professional installation often recommended: While DIY is possible, it’s a bigger undertaking than a retrofit kit.
  • Still no native Amazon Alexa support: A persistent issue with the MyQ ecosystem.
• Pricing: Can range from $200 to $500+ depending on features and horsepower.

Smartphone Compatibility

In general, all these smart garage door openers rely on dedicated apps available for both iOS (Apple iPhones) and Android smartphones. As long as your phone is a relatively recent model and running a current version of its operating system (e.g., iOS 15 or newer, Android 10 or newer), you should have no issues with app compatibility.

The crucial element is ensuring your home’s Wi-Fi signal reaches your garage reliably. If your Wi-Fi router is far from your garage, you might need a Wi-Fi extender to ensure a strong connection for your smart opener.

Conclusion: Smart Control is Within Reach

Adding a smart garage door opener to your home doesn’t require a computer science degree. With user-friendly apps, clear instructions, and plenty of options, even the non-tech-savvy homeowner can enjoy the convenience, security, and peace of mind that comes with controlling their garage door from anywhere.

Whether you opt for an affordable retrofit kit to upgrade your existing setup or invest in a brand-new opener with built-in smarts, the ability to check on your garage and open or close it with a tap on your phone is a truly valuable addition to any smart home. So go ahead, embrace the future of garage door control – you won’t regret it!