I get where you’re coming from. Rearranging a whole room just for a gadget’s microphone seems like the opposite of comfort and efficiency. I’ve found that sometimes just using a smart plug or switch with a physical button can be more convenient than relying on voice controls that only work from certain spots. Plus, less tech means less energy consumption—always a plus in my book. There’s something to be said for keeping things simple and functional, especially if it means your space stays as comfortable as you want it.
Title: Anyone else feel awkward talking to their TV?
Honestly, I get wanting to keep things simple, but I actually like having voice controls around. Rearranging a room for a mic sounds nuts, but if you plan it right from the start, it’s not that big of a deal. Plus, in bigger spaces or open layouts, yelling across the room for the lights or TV to turn on is way easier than hunting for a switch—especially when your hands are full. I guess it depends on how much you value convenience over minimalism.
Rearranging a room for a mic sounds nuts, but if you plan it right from the start, it’s not that big of a deal. Plus, in bigger spaces or open layouts, yelling across the room for the lights or T...
I totally get what you mean about convenience. I’ve worked with clients who felt weird talking to their TV at first, but once they got used to it, it just became second nature—kind of like using a remote. Rearranging for a mic can feel like overkill, but if you’re already planning a space, it’s honestly not that disruptive. Have you noticed how some people end up talking to their devices even when they’re not on? That always cracks me up. I guess it’s just about finding what feels natural in your own space.
Have you noticed how some people end up talking to their devices even when they’re not on? That always cracks me up.
That’s hilarious—I’ve totally caught myself doing that, especially when I’m half-awake and trying to get the lights to turn on. I’ll just be like, “Hey, turn on the—oh, wait, wrong room.” I get what you mean about planning for the mic though. If you’re already designing a space, it’s not that wild to think about where the tech goes. I used to think it was overkill, but after dealing with echo-y rooms and missed commands, I kinda see the logic.
Curious if anyone’s actually built a spot specifically for their smart speaker or mic? Like, did you make a shelf or hide it in the ceiling or something? I keep wondering if it really makes a difference, or if it’s just another thing to fuss over. Sometimes I feel like the devices pick up everything except what I want them to hear... especially when there’s background noise.
Title: Anyone else feel awkward talking to their TV?
I’ve actually carved out a little nook in my bookshelf for my smart speaker, mostly to keep it out of the way but still within earshot. It does help with voice pickup, especially if you angle it toward where you usually sit. That said, I wouldn’t stress too much about hiding it in the ceiling or anything unless you’re doing a full remodel. Sometimes the simplest solution—like just moving it away from the TV speakers—makes the biggest difference. Background noise is always a pain, though... mine seems to love picking up the dishwasher more than my voice.
