I agree when it comes to most "smart" home devices. However, I wired an ESP32 to my heat pump for remote control and automation, which has been absolutely fantastic. Also, I use a ton of ZigBee and zwave, since those are not "smart" by themselves and are local-only.

It's the cloud bullshit that always breaks and spies on users that I hate.

[–] Therefore@lemmy.world 1 points 1 month ago* (last edited 1 month ago)

Yeah home built and programmed smart devices are the way to go. I'm addicted to the rush of making dumb appliances automated.

The smartphone controlled aircon for $150 extra? Slap a $4 Esp in that. $400 to get sleek control of your central heating? $4 Esp. Turn on the ice maker on the commute home? You guessed it, $4 Esp.