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Erin Lawrence

Erin has over 20 years of experience as a journalist in the media and news industries, with time both on camera and behind the scenes in network TV production, plus years of writing for blogs,websites, magazines and newspapers.

A renowned storyteller (winner of two Edward R Murrow Awards for Journalism) Erin has covered everything from daily news, to technology, food, travel and architecture and loves to share what she's working on through her blog, TechGadgetsCanada.com, YouTube Channel, Erin Lawrence TV and across social media.

Erin has a Master's Degree in Journalism from Western University in London, and has been named to a Top 40 Under 40 by Avenue Magazine. She has minor obsessions with smart lighting, Palm Springs, gemology, and geology.

iRobot Roomba 692 Robot Vacuum.

How to map a house with the iRobot Roomba

Wondering just what smart mapping can do for your home when you get a vacuum robot like the iRobot Roomba? Here's how it works and how to use mapping.
House buried in snow by blizzard.

The truth about outdoor smart home gadgets and extreme cold

Has your smart camera or smart light frozen solid? It's frustrating, but can it be prevented? Here's what to know about smart home devices and extreme cold.
zoom thanksgiving setup guide

Top ways smart tech can save Thanksgiving dinner

Stressed about hosting a Thanksgiving dinner? We share the tech and gadgets (you probably already have some) that can help make it the best holiday ever.
Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen.

8 Google Assistant settings you should disable or adjust

Google Assistant is a powerful tool, but it also comes with some privacy concerns. Here are a few settings you should adjust on your Google device right away.
amazon smart oven review keypad

Are smart kitchen gadgets worth it?

So many gadgets are popping up with smart in the name. But what does this really mean, and when it comes to smart kitchen appliances, is it worth it?
Philips Hue Appear Outdoor smart light.

Why moving your smart home could be a nightmare

As we adopt smart home devices and make intelligent spaces, what happens when we relocate? Moving a smart home can be a nightmare -- but it doesn't have to be.
Dorm room appliances in a bedroom.

The best smart home tech for your dorm

School life is easier with technology! From digital assistants to smart plugs, these products are must-adds to any dorm room or student apartment.
AirPods 3, AirPods, and AirPods Pro sitting in their charging cases.

How to update Apple AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max

Apple often releases updates for AirPods. These updates offer new features and can resolve bugs. Here's how to update AirPods, AirPods Pro, and AirPods Max.
Roborock S4 Max cleaning a carpet.

How to choose a robot vacuum

Considering getting some robot housekeeping help? Shopping for a robot can be intimidating. Here's what to know before you buy a robot vacuum for your home.
Side profile view of August smart lock on a door.

Smart lock buying guide

Need to make access to your home easier or more secure? Here's what you need to know about smart locks and how to pick one for your home.
Person installing Ring video doorbell

How to remove a Ring Doorbell

Moving, or just need to recharge a Ring Video Doorbell? Here's how to do it, even if you don't have the special screwdriver that comes with the unit.
The Google Nest Hub Max in use.

Why you should be using Google Home Routines

Wondering if setting up Google Home Routines is worth the trouble? It is! Here's what they can do for you and how to get started.
Image of Google Home, 16:9 scale

What is Google Home?

Considering making your home smart? Here's what you need to know about adopting the Google Home smart home ecosystem.
Walmart Grocery 2

The best grocery list apps for iPhone and Android in 2023

Always forgetting something at the store? Keeping a digital grocery list on your phone helps you stay organized and on budget. These are our top picks.
Man using a Hydrow Connected Rower in a room with a hardwood floor.

Make your next workout a treat with the best luxury fitness tech

Sometimes splashing out on a little fitness inspiration can be the motivation you need for your workout. These gadgets and gear are worth the money.
Tineco Toasty One on counter with fresh toast.

Toasting … for dummies? Who really needs a smart toaster

Is a smart toaster worth it? Find out what a smart toaster can do and how much it costs, as we take a look at whether this technology is worth it.
Philips Hue Signe lamps with oak finish set up in bedroom.

How to give smart home gifts

Wondering what to get for the smart home newbie or the expert? Here are some picks to consider and things to keep in mind when giving smart home gifts.
Yeedi Mop Statio Pro on countertop.

Yeedi Mop Station Pro review: great on paper, needs work in practice

Robot vacuum-mops are all the rage, and when they cost less than others, it's enticing. But does this one deliver on cleaning power?
Amazon Echo Show 5th Generation in a bathroom..

2022 Amazon Echo Dot with Clock (5th Gen) review: supersmart personal assistant speaker

Need an Alexa device for a bedroom or as a satellite option? Here's what we think of the 2022 Echo Dot with Clock.
best kitchen splurges? The Tineco Smart Toaster, as seen on a counter, with toast slices.

Splurge-worthy smart kitchen gadgets

Looking for fun gifts for the cooks in your life who have everything? Find out the smart kitchen gadgets we're lusting after.
Amazon Echo Show 15 lifestyle image.

How to track devices with Echo Show 15

Lost your keys, wallet, or phone? Amazon's Alexa assistant can help you find them if you ask. Learn how to set it up.
Google Nest Hub 2nd Gen sleep tracking

Halo Rise vs. Nest Hub 2nd Gen: comparing sleep tracking and features

Amazon just launched a sleep device to compete with Google's Home Hub sleep features, but how do these two devices stack up? Read our comparison.
samsung artistic frame tv art mode

Smart gadgets need a face-lift. A lot of them are way too ugly.

It is high time design catches up with technology. Why can't our gadgets be beautiful and functional?
Best IFTT Recipes

IFTTT routines for fall

As the days get shorter and the weather becomes less predictable, use IFTTT to alert you to important news and to make your routines easier.
HGTV Smart Home 2022 in Wilmington, NC.

Big smart home growth predicted: These are the appliances and features we’d like to see

Smart home gadgets aren't going away. Recent studies show this market is booming. Here's what you need to know to plan your own smart home of the future.
Person holding smartphone with IFTTT screen visible.

Best IFTTT Applets

Wish your smart home devices talked to each other better? IFTTT can help. Here's what to know about automating your life easily and the applets to help.
Photo of modern house is pictured on the display of an Echo Show 8.

How to see your photos and albums on an Echo Show display

Tired of uninspiring stock photos appearing on your Echo Show? Why not view family, friends, pets, and your trips instead? Here's how to do it.
The Govee Immersion Kit enhances on-screen content.

How to use smart ambient lighting

You don't need down lights, overhead lamps, and glaring bulbs. Ambient lighting is the warmer, more colorful way to paint a room. Here's how to get started.
Apple TV+ and a Roku device.

How to get Apple TV on Roku: Everything you need to know

If you're using a Roku TV or streaming device, are you out of luck with Apple TV? No way! Here's how to easily add Apple TV and Apple TV + to your Roku device.
The Philips Hue app.

Best smart ambient lighting by room

Trying to make your home more comfortable and relaxing? Smart lighting can help! Here's what to add in every room.
temperature controlled ember mug deal best buy flash sale white charging

Smart home tech for your office

If you're working from home, it pays to make your space comfortable. Whether you have a dedicated room or not, these gadgets can make you more productive.
Dyson Pure Humidify Cool filters

Can an air purifier really help you breathe easier during wildfire season?

Should you shell out for an air purifier if your home's air is less than ideal? Can a purifier really help, even during wildfire season?
Thermomix TM6 on a kitchen counter

Thermomix TM6 cooking robot review: a countertop culinary instructor (and bartender too)

If a cooking robot that can automate all your kitchen tasks sound like an infomercial, think again. The Thermomix TM6 is surprisingly versatile and easy to use.
Thermacell Radius and liquid repellant cartridge siting on a wood deck.

Thermacell Radius mosquito repeller review: shockingly effective! (without the shocks)

There are plenty of gimmicks that claim to repel mosquitos. The Thermacell Radius says it can create a 20-foot mosquito-free zone. So does it really work?