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There are many ways to make the most of old devices that we no longer use. For example, I have some old Fire tablets that I converted into an Echo Show for my home use. However, the best use for an old tablet is to become a smart home control panel. In fact, this is one of the easiest and cheapest upgrades you can make to your home.
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If you have a lot of smart lights, plugs, switches, and other devices, you’ll probably benefit from adding a control panel to manage them all from one place. Setting up an old tablet as a central control center not only brings new life to the device but also gives you a hub that anyone at home can access.
How to use an old tablet as a smart home display
what you need: An old tablet, a charging cord, a wall mount (optional), or a stand (optional).
The smart home automation system you choose will act as the brain controlling your devices. This will also be the platform you use to manage your smart home on your tablet-turned-control panel.
You probably already have a favorite smart home automation system, especially if you already have a smart home setup, but here’s how the most popular options compare:
- house assistant: : This open-source option offers the most control over your dashboard, devices, and automation. It’s the top choice for power users and smart home enthusiasts who enjoy tinkering to make the system work the way they want. It works locally and is very fast, so your devices are reliably responsive to Home Assistant. It’s one of the most compatible smart home automation systems available, so you can connect devices from different brands under a single controller, even if they don’t all support Miter.
- amazon alexa: : A top choice for beginners and smart home users who enjoy voice control, Alexa is one of the most reliable and responsive voice assistants. It works on the Alexa app, Echo devices, and most recently online alexa.com. With the recent release of Alexa+, it’s also a generative AI-powered voice assistant, letting you give it more complex commands, like turning off multiple types of devices in a single request.
- apple home: : It is the preferred platform for many iPhone users. If you’re big into the Apple ecosystem, this is a great option. It is also a top choice for those who appreciate privacy. Apple Home is famous for its clean user interface, but its strong focus on privacy also makes it a walled garden. However, you can use Mate devices with Apple Home, which opens up compatibility that was once very limited.
- Google Home: : A great choice for the Android ecosystem, it offers simple controls that are easy to find and use, and a clean interface. Google Home also has Gemini for Home, its generative AI-powered voice assistant. However, you need a subscription to access all the best features. Google Home is a great option if you use a lot of Nest devices, but it’s also compatible with Matter, so you don’t have to limit yourself to “works with Google” devices.
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You can set your tablet’s screen to never timeout or set it to stay on as long as possible before going to sleep. Android developer options let you set your tablet to stay awake while charging.
Keep in mind that if this device is permanently in one place, you’ll need to leave it plugged in.
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If you want to keep your tablet locked to a single app, like Google Home or Apple Home, you can turn on Guided Access on the iPad, or use the Android app Fully Kiosk Browser Or wall panel. Using these prevents other users from logging out of the home automation app or browser you choose. They also automatically launch the smart home app so you can see your dashboard when the tablet is turned on.
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After resetting your device and adding the Smart Home Animation System application, it’s time to set up your Home View. Note, if you’re using an iPad, Apple Home is already installed, and, if you’re using an Android tablet, you probably already have Google Home installed after formatting your tablet.
Also: The latest Google Home update brings Gemini improvements I’m actually excited to try again
Open your smart home automation app and set up your landing page or dashboard. This is what you’ll see when you approach your tablet. Add your favorite devices to the landing page so you can easily control them as you get closer. For example, this could include smart lights, smart thermostats, security cameras, and smart locks. You can also add shortcuts to scenes and routines.
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If you plan to mount your tablet on a wall, you can choose between a flush wall-mount option, a magnetic mount, or any compatible option for your specific tablet. For an even more seamless look, you can run a hidden charging cable into the wall.
For example, you can keep it on a simple stand on the kitchen counter or even on the entryway table, so you can grab it as needed.
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Can I use Home Assistant on a tablet?
Yes, you can set up the Home Assistant dashboard on a tablet to serve as your control panel. Home Assistant lets you customize the dashboard and organize your devices the way you want, which is very useful for getting a quick view of your smart home.
Can my smart panel tablet be the only control method for my home?
I would strongly discourage making your tablet the sole control method for your smart home, as this could cause problems if the tablet ever turns off (for any reason). Keep your smart home automation system’s app on your phone for control.
Also, the tablet is not a hub, so keep any smart speakers and hubs turned on while using the tablet as a way to quickly control favorite devices.
Where should I place my smart home panel?
Place your smart home panel where you will use it most to control your devices. It can serve as the main panel for everyone at home, in your kitchen, or at your entry door to run quick sequences and control locks.
I place it on the stairwell wall of my house so that I or anyone at home can easily control the lights and other devices as they are coming down or going up for the night.
