Compiled by Jennifer Gentile
A true smart home is intelligent inside and out. Here are some handy tools to increase the IQ of your outdoor space:
1. Have you ever overcooked a steak or had to return it to the grill because it wasn’t done? With a smart thermometer like the Weber iGrill Mini, you won’t have to wonder whether your meat is ready to serve. The iGrill Mini has a wired probe that measures temperature while the food is cooking, and you don’t even have to be standing there to watch; the device connects with your phone via an app and alerts you when your desired temperature is reached. (from $37.69)
2. When you entertain outdoors, you can count on pesky bugs showing up uninvited. The Thermacell Patio Shield Mosquito Repeller creates a 15-foot protection zone without sprays or open flames. ($24.99)
3. What’s a backyard get-together without music and the right lighting? The TikiTunes Portable Bluetooth 5.0 Indoor/Outdoor Wireless Speaker provides both in a portable, water-resistant package. An LED flame offers ambience for any occasion, and the 5-watt speaker connects to any compatible wireless device for six hours of continuous playtime; connect two TikiTunes simultaneously for stereo sound. ($36.62)
4. Not a fan of yard work? A smart lawnmower like the The Worx Landroid M 20V is an investment — but one that pays dividends by saving you time and effort. The Landroid lets you mow and trim remotely via an app, from which you can stop and start the machine, adjust cutting schedules, monitor progress and receive status alerts. (from $999)
5. What’s better than an umbrella that shades you on a hot day? How about one with some high-tech features. This Outdoor Umbrella with USB Charger & Lighting lets you keep your devices fully functional while you relax in the backyard — plus it has solar-powered LED lights built in for nighttime. (from $78.99)
