The “smart” home of the future: a paradise where devices cater to our every need, adjust to our routines, and offer unprecedented convenience. While this dream is often powered by proprietary systems and platforms, we’ll explore why the Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) movement and Linux can offer a more reliable, user-controlled alternative. A software engineer named Brandon Jackson recounts (you can read his full story here), a mere misunderstanding with an Amazon delivery driver led to the suspension of his account, effectively crippling his smart home setup.

This incident brings into sharp focus an uncomfortable truth: our so-called smart devices are often anything but. In fact, we should refrain from labeling these cloud-connected IoT devices as “smart”. How can a device be deemed intelligent when it requires an internet connection merely to perform its primary function? The moment our internet goes down, or there’s an issue with the provider’s servers, these smart devices become as effective as a paperweight.

Let’s look at Jackson’s case. His doorbell, linked to his Amazon account, was rendered useless when the account was suspended due to an alleged incident involving the device.

An ordinary doorbell, in contrast, would have continued to function without a hitch. Doesn’t this make you question: how smart are these devices, really?

In light of Jackson’s incident, it becomes clear that these IoT devices should perhaps be referred to as “dependent” rather than smart. They are dependent on internet connectivity, proprietary protocols, and the mercy of corporations. This dependency limits user control, adds unnecessary complexity, and diminishes the functionality and flexibility that a truly smart device should offer.

In the wake of his unexpected Amazon exile, Jackson found himself questioning his relationship with the retail giant and its ecosystem of devices. After years of loyalty, a single misunderstanding led to a blanket shutdown of all his services. Despite promptly submitting video evidence that countered the allegations, his account remained locked for nearly a week, illustrating the frustrating lack of control users have over their own smart homes.

Jackson’s ordeal underscores the urgent need for a shift towards a more personalized home assistant system, perhaps utilizing open-source software and tools like Raspberry Pi devices running Home Assistant scattered around the house. This incident highlights the critical importance of championing for Free and Open Source Software (FOSS) and open protocols in the design and implementation of smart home technology.

By using open protocols, we can create devices that do not require a connection to the internet to function, yet can still be controlled from anywhere in your home. These devices will be independent, adaptable, and flexible, continuing to operate even in the absence of internet connectivity. They can monitor your home, control your lights, and perform numerous other tasks without being tethered to the cloud. Now that’s what I would call smart technology.

This freedom and independence are not merely about convenience, but also about ownership and control. As Jackson aptly noted in his updates, if you’ve paid for a device, you should own it and be able to use it on your own terms.

The ownership of a device should not be conditional upon maintaining a good standing with a corporation or on the whims of its servers and policies.

In a world where our lives are increasingly connected and our homes are becoming more automated, the need for truly smart home technology has never been more critical. We must demand independence from the cloud, security, and reliability from our devices. It’s time to transition from “dependent” devices to truly smart home technology powered by FOSS and open protocols. As a community, let’s push for this change and redefine our expectations for smart home technology.

Let’s change the narrative and set new expectations for this technology.