Smart plug
Switches the power on and off from an app or on a timer. It often measures how much electricity goes through it as well, and reports that to the manufacturer.
What data it sends and where
- Plug → The manufacturer's server: When the power was switched, the timer schedules, and the electricity readings if it takes them
- The manufacturer's server → The app on your phone: The state the device is in, and the commands that control it
- Plug → The other devices in the home: Nothing, if the device has been put on a network of its own
Checklist
Do these during setup. Later, check only that updates continue and the settings still match how you use the device.
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A smart plug is a networked device just like a camera or television. Check its account, app and update support in the same way.
Electricity readings can reveal patterns in how appliances are used. Check the instructions to see whether readings are stored by the manufacturer and whether the history can be deleted.
What is unusual about this kind of device
The plug’s simple job says nothing about how long it will receive updates. Check the support period before buying and make sure updates can be installed automatically.
When this device is not worth buying
If all you need is a timer, a mechanical one does the same job with no network, app or account.