For true automation sure but I can think of "IoT" applications where using the phone would be nice. Lighting most of all.

I have a small arcade in my basement and the ability to control the lights from my phone would be way better than using the wall switch, mostly because of outlet placement and the fact the switch has to stay on.

My living room only has one switched outlet and it is the one closest to the switch. The lights across the room have to be manually controlled.

I've done some research into wifi controlled outlets and I have some very old radio controlled ones but I need more. Do you have any suggestions for hackable wifi plugs that do not connect to the internet? Maybe something that connects to a hub?

My dream would be something where I can make my own sensors and talk over wifi to outlets that are UL listed, without involving the internet. I'm happy to DIY anything that doesn't interact with mains voltage.