As warmer weather and longer days draw people outdoors, homeowners are looking to upgrade their outdoor living spaces with smart home technology—without compromising on style. A recent WIRED guide by Nena Farrell, updated July 2026, highlights smart home gadgets that provide convenience and curb appeal, from locks and doorbells to lighting and birdhouses.
Discreet Smart Lock: Level Lock Pro
Farrell calls the Level Lock Pro her "obsession." It is a full-lock replacement that looks like the original front of the lock, with a normal interior face—unlike bulky smart locks. The lock offers NFC, Apple Home Key, and Matter compatibility, along with long battery life. To control it remotely, users need Level's Connect Wi-Fi Bridge ($79).
Sleek Video Doorbell: Nest Doorbell
The Nest Doorbell is described as stylish, with a form factor that upgrades the bulky shapes of competitors like Ring. It comes in several finishes to match the home. Farrell tested the battery version, which requires recharging every couple of weeks; the wired version is the top recommendation in WIRED's Best Video Doorbells guide.
Smart Birdhouse: Birdfy Nest Duo
For homeowners dealing with birds nesting in unwanted spots, the Birdfy Nest Duo offers a solution. It is a slim, attractive birdhouse that includes two solar-powered cameras (one facing the entrance, one inside) for multi-angle bird-watching. Features include removable hole inserts for different species, metal predator guards, and a remote control to reset or recharge the camera without disturbing the birds.
Stylish Smart Lighting: Govee String Lights
Farrell recommends Govee's smart outdoor string lights with clear bulbs featuring a contemporary triangle center. They are part of the current Govee lineup and provide fun, controllable lighting for warm evenings.
| Product | Key Feature | Price (as in article) |
|---|---|---|
| Level Lock Pro | Discreet design, Matter, Apple Home Key | Not specified; Wi-Fi Bridge $79 |
| Nest Doorbell | Stylish form factor, multiple finishes | Not specified |
| Birdfy Nest Duo | Two solar cameras, predator guards | Not specified |
| Govee String Lights | Triangle center, smart control | Not specified |
These gadgets demonstrate that smart home technology can enhance outdoor living without detracting from home aesthetics. For tech-conscious homeowners, they offer a balance of function and form, making it easier to enjoy outdoor spaces while maintaining curb appeal.
