The smart home revolution promises an automated and interconnected future, where every device and system in our home works in harmony to anticipate our needs, enrich our daily lives, and amplify the impact our actions have on the world around us. Whether it means effortlessly dimming the lights with a voice prompt, cutting energy consumption, or remotely overseeing home security measures, the potential appears boundless.

THE AI FACTOR

With artificial intelligence (AI), voice assistants like Alexa and Siri are becoming more intuitive, learning from our behaviors to anticipate our needs. This allows more automated routines to be tailored to individual lifestyles. Whether adjusting the thermostat or ordering groceries, AI-powered assistants streamline tasks and enhance convenience.

As AI changes the way we interact with technology, we see smart home automation users becoming more comfortable with adopting internet of technology (IoT) devices. According to Parks Associates research, each U.S. household in 2023 has 17 connected devices, on average. This is a crucial time for manufacturers to build consumer trust by offering cutting-edge tech that can seamlessly integrate smart home automation solutions that make people’s lives better.

LIGHT THE WAY TO BETTER LIVING

One area with significant advancements is smart lighting, which focuses on promoting healthier living. In 2022, the worldwide smart lighting market reached a valuation of more than $15 billion, and is projected to grow at 22.1% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 2023 and 2030.

Manufacturers are incorporating features such as circadian rhythm synchronization and color temperature adjustment to mimic natural light patterns. These systems not only contribute to improved sleep quality and productivity but also save energy by adjusting brightness levels based on time of day and individual preferences.

Choose which lights in your home you want to dim and note their wattage. This helps you select the right dimmer product for your needs. In addition, you can identify which lights and devices require a basic on/off switch because they just need a relay to become smart. By optimizing lighting conditions based on time of day and individual preferences, these smart systems can contribute to improved sleep quality, productivity, and overall well-being.

STAY CONNECTED, STAY PROTECTED

One way smart home automation makers can build trust with their customers is by prioritizing data privacy and security. Most smart devices rely on cloud servers, which means that every time you adjust the thermostat or ask your virtual assistant a question, that data travels to a remote server for processing. Every command given to a smart device and every adjustment it makes on its own is recorded, and over time, these data points form a comprehensive picture of the user’s lifestyle.

Some smart home automation devices use encrypted connections. In addition, IoT devices that are designed to operate locally add another layer of protection because they offer built-in web servers and application programming interface (API) controls, enabling them to function and interact without the need for external data transfers.

The most effective way to guard against data breaches, however, is to simply not collect customer information. Our company is a market disrupter in that sense because we do not store users’ personal data. If you want to use Shelly’s consumer app and cloud service, all you need is an email address.

Activating an “away mode” scene can lock all doors, arm the security system, lower window blinds, and activate motion-sensitive lights to deter potential intruders and give the impression that someone is home. Utilizing a collection of Bluetooth devices, for instance, adds an extra layer of protection to your home with continuous monitoring, giving you peace of mind no matter where you are.

CONVENIENT SUSTAINABILITY

As energy costs rise and environmental concerns mount, consumers are seeking ways to reduce their carbon footprint and utility bills. Consumers can look for energy meters and power measurement devices with good reviews for their precision, ease of use, and integration capabilities. These devices allow homeowners to monitor and manage their energy consumption in real time, providing invaluable insights into their usage patterns.

Smart home automation offers more than just savings on energy bills. It has the potential to contribute significantly to the broader community and environmental goals. Governments and organizations can play a crucial role by offering incentives for energy-efficient installations, enabling consumers to not only reduce their individual energy bills but also contribute collectively to reducing energy consumption and the grid’s load.

The energy management field is constantly evolving with the emergence of novel technologies and methodologies. IoT devices that are intelligent at the point of control are engineered to keep in step with this continuous transformation, offering adaptability and futureproofing, key for any modern home electronics solution. From smart thermostats to energy-efficient appliances, these technologies empower homeowners to take control of their energy usage and contribute to a more sustainable future.

INTEROPERABILITY IN A SMART ECOSYSTEM 

Interoperability is another key trend driving smart home automation. Consumers no longer want isolated ecosystems; they crave seamless integration between devices and platforms. Industry players are collaborating to establish common standards, enabling different devices to communicate effectively with one another.

If you want to set up scenes that adjust temperature and ventilation based on the time of day or your preferences, for example, you can create a morning routine that gradually increases the thermostat temperature. The routine could include smart blinds that open to let in natural light and then soothing music turns on to wake you up gently. This interoperability not only enhances user experience but also fosters innovation and expands the possibilities of smart living.

Recognizing that every home and family is unique, brands are offering products with built-in timers, schedules, and custom scripting capabilities to adapt to individual needs and preferences. Whether your smart home plays your favorite song upon your arrival or knows the best way to wake you up in the morning, the future of connected living is bright with possibilities. With a focus on personalization, security, sustainability, and compatibility, smart home automation is a necessary luxury in today’s digital age, enabling a more efficient, comfortable and connected way of life.

Svetlin Todorov is CEO of Shelly USA.