We’re all adjusted to the modern conveniences of our smart phones – but what about controlling our homes with the touch of a button? What if we could program our homes, communicate with our homes and rely on them for self-sufficiency? Believe it or not, these once outrageous seeming requests are a reality. In fact, they’re expected to continue popping up in more and more homes.
Home automation technology has been around for several decades, but the industry has been slow to take off. But, according to ABI Research, it looks like that’s about to change. They’ve projected that the home automation industry will grow to $14.1 billion in worldwide revenues by 2018. Looks like this technology is something we better get used to! At BAM, our focus will shift to encouraging builders to offer these new technologies in order to stay current and attract the younger generation. Here are four gadgets to look out for.
Smart Thermostats
The Nest Thermostat is a fine example of smart thermostats. The nest is programmable and capable of learning your habits and heating or cooling your home accordingly. The company is now rolling out a smoke and carbon monoxide alarm that connects to WiFi and interacts with the homeowner through its smartphone app.
Digital Backplash
Believe it or not, digital backplash is a growing trend for kitchens! They are installed above kitchen countertops and below cabinets where traditional backplash would go. These intelligent walls can display pictures of artwork, find your favourite recipe on the Internet or pull up your security camera feed.
Smart Lock System
Smart lock systems grant keyless access to your home though Bluetooth phone recognition technology. They also allow you to customize their lock – this means you can monitor access to your home and no more locking yourself out of the house!
Smart Kitchen Appliances
The kitchen is becoming ‘smarter’ thanks to high-tech appliances from Samsung, Miele, and LG Electronics. Smart refrigerators like LG’s keeps track of the contents inside! It does this by scanning your receipt and alerting you when an item is about to expire. It can also recommend recipes based on stored contents and when you need to replace items, you can order online via the fridge’s LCD display screen.
Further validation for automation technology can be seen inside companies around the world. Many offices are getting on board with smart technology and teaching their employees how to stay ahead of the curve. Naturally, this translates to better customer service. If the employees are well versed in hot technology, customers are going to learn why they need it as well! Besides, who wants to live in a home with outdated technology?
So, what do you think? Is home automation technology here to stay?
JohnAmardeil.com 