I have a logitech hub and remote. You can program different “scenes” that will automatically turn on devices and set them to correct settings. I can also activate using Alex. For example, “Alexa, turn on apple TV.” will turn on the TV, set it to the correct input, turn on my audio receiver, turn it to Apple TV (my receiver handles video switching), then hits the home button to wake my apple TV. If I want to turn it off, it will power down everything in reverse. If I want to switch to cable box, it’s set-up to know receiver needs to be set to Cable Box, and then the remote is set-up to control my cable box. It also knows that all my audio goes through a sound bar so the volume button on the remote controls surround sound.

I have tons of large windows. I put remote blinds on them about 12 years ago. Only thing I regret is not going black out on them. Tons more options today for controllers and automation than there was when i got them. They weren’t cheap. I waited for them to go on sale at Home Depot or Lowes before buying them. Also, go in knowing what you want, know what controllers are available and order it all at once. Buying the controllers with the blinds was 1/4 the price of trying to buy them after the fact. Don’t expect your local big box store sales person to know a damn thing about motorized blinds.

Remove the cover of your thermostat and see which wires you have. You can go to the Ecobee, or nest website and see if their thermostat is compatible with their system

Gen 1 nest user here had lots of integration into other things but I ripped that fucker out a few months ago after google decided, “nah, we don’t want you to do that anymore” and have been very happy not being forced into google’s world. I got an ecobee for $25 (retail would have been $199 or something) from my utility company. Check out their website, they often sell them real cheap in exchange for being part of their use management program.

I love my Lutron Caseta switches. Hub pairs with Homekit and they’re all rock solid. Really fast response times and the wall switches are really nice looking. You can also add lamp modules and pico remotes to the system for additional functionality. Really happy with my Lutron switches.

I mounted an iPad mini on the wall with a custom wall mount I bought off etsy that has a space for a small charger to keep it powered on. I’m sure you can do the same with any tablet. I mounted it on the wall above a place where there’s an electric outlet so I was able to fish down through the wall and tie the box into to the electrical.