Today's NYT Connections Hints, Answers and Help for July 14, #764

A tech reviewer who's tried countless smart locks keeps coming back to the Aqara U100, praising its seamless Apple integration and game-changing keycard access—especially now that it's nearly $100 cheaper.

Editor’s Note: If you're deep in the Apple ecosystem or just want a reliable smart lock without fiddling with your phone, this deal makes it a no-brainer. The keycard feature is a standout for guests or when batteries die—real-life headaches most smart locks don’t solve.

A tech-savvy homeowner ditched their Ring doorbell for a Lorex 2K model that avoids monthly fees by storing footage locally on a microSD card—though they’ve got one lingering worry about the switch.

Editor’s Note: As more people push back against subscription fatigue, this review highlights a growing demand for privacy-focused, fee-free alternatives in home security. But the "one concern" tease reminds us that no product is perfect—readers will want to know what trade-offs come with ditching the cloud.

A cat owner shares their experience with the Whisker Litter-Robot 4, a high-tech litter box that handles the dirty work automatically—and even monitors their pet’s health. The owner says their cat actually seems to prefer it over the old-school setup.

Editor’s Note: For anyone who’s tired of scooping litter (or just curious about smart pet gadgets), this review highlights how tech can make pet care easier—and maybe even improve a cat’s well-being. It’s a sign of how far pet products have evolved beyond basic necessities.

European venture capital firms are having a rough year—they’re raising less money than they have in nearly a decade. Investors are pulling back because the industry hasn’t been delivering strong returns, leaving startups and VCs scrambling.

Editor’s Note: This isn’t just a bad year for VCs—it’s a warning sign for startups that rely on their funding. If investors stay cautious, it could slow down innovation, make it harder for new companies to get off the ground, and even reshape Europe’s tech landscape.

If you're tired of lugging around clunky power banks that barely last, the EcoFlow River 2 might be your new best friend. After putting countless portable power stations to the test, this one stands out for its reliability and featherlight design—perfect for camping trips, road trips, or just keeping your gadgets alive during a blackout.

Editor’s Note: Portable power is becoming essential for everything from remote work to outdoor adventures, and finding a balance between performance and portability is tough. This review cuts through the noise, highlighting a standout option that could save you from low-battery panic (or a sore back).