Connected entertainment, security, and climate control systems have become the cornerstone of high-spec homes. In recent years, “smart” or “connected” homes have defined luxury within the home building industry. Smart home devices have grown significantly in popularity, as research states that the value of the smart home device market is set to grow to $135B by 2025.
Technology in our home has become normalized. Devices like Amazon’s Alexa, Google’s Nest Thermostat, and the iRobot Roomba Vacuum were once revolutionary products but have now entered the mainstream. So the question is, what does the next generation of smart systems and appliances look like?
WIRELESS CHARGING- With the growing number of smart devices in homes there comes a major drawback: the wires and batteries needed to power them. Enter the emerging technology of wireless home charging from providers like WiCharge. This device plugs directly into your light or power outlet and provides accurate pinpoint charging using infrared beams. The charging of your smart home devices with this technology becomes, out of sight and out of mind.
INTUITIVE KITCHEN APPLIANCES- There are many kitchen appliances and devices out there that are making your time in the kitchen a little easier. To name a few, Revolution Cooking offers a smart toaster that uses sensors to perfectly toast bread, bagels, waffles, toaster pastries, and English muffins to your liking. Hestan offers a smart induction burnerand frying pan that has embedded sensors in both the cooktop and pan which connects to their app, guiding you through recipes and ensuring that you never overcook a meal again. Samsung also rolled out their 4-door refrigerator with Family Hub. Family Hub is basically like having a tablet screen built into your fridge door that also works as a memo board, and is accessible through your smartphone. Plus, the fridge has a built-in camera, so if you’re ever out at the grocery store wondering if you have enough milk at home, you can just take a peek inside, via your phone. As AI and machine learning progress, we will continue to see more smart appliances available on the market.
PERSONALIZED SECURITY- Imagine a world where you no longer need to carry your keys or remember a passcode; instead, your front door opens by the touch of a finger. Biometric security is likely a trend that will grow quickly within the home industry. Most “biometric” security systems are offered by commercial brands, but more consumer solutions are coming to the market. As an example, Kwikset has recently launched their Halo Touch WiFi smart lock, that will allow you to unlock or lock your door by using your unique fingerprint.
The Future is Now.
While there are many advanced smart home devices and technologies on the horizon, there are several changes that could instantaneously make your home “smarter” or more connected.
SMART LIGHT BULBS- The Philips Hue ecosystem isn’t the cheapest, but it’s definitely worth it. These smart light bulbs are the gateway to upgrading every home to a smart home. You’ll start with a few light bulbs here and there, realize how amazing they are, then you’ll find yourself upgrading the rest of the home. These lightbulbs connect to Alexa or GoogleAssistant offering voice control capabilities or controllable access through your phone.
SMART BLINDS- Axis makes your existing blind systems smart. Whether you want to adjust your blinds from your bed or your couch, with Axis Gear you can do it all with one simple touch. Control your new smart blinds directly with the free smartphone app or its intuitive Touch Strip controls. Axis Gear also offers customizable options such as scheduling a timer for your blinds. Whether to address security concerns, block out the heat, or create a synchronized and customizable working and living experience, this smart blinds conversion kit is a great way to connect your home.
SMART DOORBELL- The Ring doorbell uses motion detection to determine if you have a visitor at the front door. This technology then sends you a notification to your smartphone and begins video recording until motion is no longer detected. It also allows you to answer your door and speak to your visitor through your phone. Whether for security purposes or convenience, the Ring Video Doorbell is an effective alternative to the traditional doorbell and provides more control over your home.
The future of Smart Homes is here, whether it be changing your lighting, upgrading to a smart fridge, or purchasing an iRobot vacuum; technology in our homes is becoming an unavoidable reality. It is universal human nature to take pride in our homes, and builders know that better than anyone. By investing in smart-home technology, you can provide your clients with more. More opportunity for convenience, customization and protection to ensure your homebuyers have the perfect mix of luxury and necessity. This technology enables your business to define itself as a differentiated brand while simultaneously increasing revenues. Are you ready to start making the shift?
– The OpenHouse.ai Team
