Welcome! I’m Matthew S. Smith, a prolific tech journalist, critic, product reviewer, and influencer from Portland, Oregon. Over the past 16 years I’ve reported on cutting-edge technology from a variety of perspectives. I was among the first to try Microsoft HoloLens, I’ve reported extensively on the technical and legal issues surrounding AI, I’ve covered blockchain and the metaverse since 2016, and I’ve reviewed thousands (literally thousands) of PC laptops, desktops, monitors, and other consumer gadgets.
I’m currently focused on artificial intelligence, machine learning, and advanced display tech (including Micro-OLED and -LED technology), alongside my coverage of the latest consumer electronics. I’m available for new projects including reviews, columns, and in-depth features. Shoot me an email if you want to get in touch.
Where to find my work
The publications I’ve worked with include IEEE Spectrum, MIT Tech Review, The Verge, Ars Technica, Wired, Business Insider, PC World, Lifewire, IGN, Reviewed, MakeUseOf, Kotaku, and Consumers Digest, among others.
I was an editor at Digital Trends for nearly six years, starting in the role of Computing Editor and eventually rising to the role of Reviews Editor. I led a group of editors to cover products in literally every major category of consumer tech. Together, the team tested over 1,000 products every year.
Where to watch (and hear) me:
I make documentaries on video game history at for Computer Gaming Yesterday, my YouTube channel. It focuses on computer games from the turn of the millennium including real-time strategy and massively multiplayer games.
I frequently appeared on Digital Trends’ YouTube channel during my time with that publication. This included video reviews and exclusive features, such as a deep-dive on Intel’s Hades Canyon NUC which, at the time, was the most powerful gaming PC of its size.
I also co-hosted a PC hardware podcast with Greg Nibler and Brad Bourque in 2016 and 2017. Close to the Metal issued over 50 thirty-minute episodes during its run.
Get in touch
You can reach me by email here, or reach out to me on LinkedIn.