Creating a Smarthome (Part One)
Some of the features in homes today are radically different than the homes in past decades. The Internet of Things (IoT), a technology concept regarding the connectivity of personal items via a network connection, is a growing list of personal items in a consumer’s home that yield greater control over their use and a better user experience.
If you’re a fan of technology or if you’re looking to get even more use out of your home, you may want to consider creating your own IoT between your various appliances. This can be done by purchasing the right tools for your home. Below are some recommendations for items that are currently on the market.
Some things to consider…
How fragile are the items that you’re purchasing? Will they be subject to damage from regular use? Will they present hazards that wouldn’t have otherwise been in the home?
Before running out to the store or purchasing items and appliances online, you’ll want to think about what it is you’re wanting to buy and why you’re wanting to buy it. Chances are, the items that you’re looking at buying to upgrade your home are great items that will change your experience. But is it the best fit? Will it come with concerns, such as privacy issues or potential for hacking (as seen with Bluetooth items)? And is what you’re buying compatible with other devices in your home? Or will the new amenities cause some sort of issues when you connect them?
Home Security System
Ring is frequently advertised as a unit for catching porch thieves in the act, but looking at the extended suite of products would show consumers that that’s a very limited understanding of what Ring actually is. Of course, home security systems have been selling to consumers for decades, but the cross-platform accessibility of Ring is what makes it so appealing. It’s a package that can include motion-activated lights, security cameras of various sizes and styles that can be installed as the user needs, an alarm that keeps constant vigil over the homes of the users.
Other security systems, like SimpliSafe, have similar features, and readers are advised to do some price shopping to find out which home security system might be best for them.
Virtual Assistant
Talking to a device is much easier than typing into it, so long as the device can hear you clearly and intelligently process what you’re saying. If you like the freedom of just being able to talk to your devices and make lists, ask questions, or perform any number of tasks, maybe you should consider getting a virtual assistant. The Amazon Alexa and Echo are perhaps the two most popular versions of such AI-enabled devices, and both Amazon and Google offer their virtual assistants in multiple styles and sizes with different features.
