Gartner predicts that the number of connected devices worldwide will reach 20.4 billion by 2020, improving comfort, convenience and home security. Vector Security currently deploys more than 4 million connected devices across North America.

This post will provide an overview of four top trends that are expected to impact the home automation market in the next three years.

1. Voice-First Devices

Approximately 72% of smart home device users have expressed interest in using a voice-first interface to manage their home automation systems. Virtual assistants, such as the Amazon Echo and Google Home, offer hands-free control, greater convenience and a more intuitive user experience. Voice control is commonly used to monitor and manage connected devices, such as entertainment systems, smart lights and smart appliances.

Homeowners may also use the Amazon Echo to assist with a variety of activities:

  • Listening to music.
  • Managing calendars. 
  • Online shopping.
  • Reading the news.
  • Setting alarms.

2. Smart Appliances

Rapid adoption of new technology and a governmental push toward energy efficiency has propelled the use of smart appliances. An estimated 178 smart home appliances will be sold globally in 2020, providing convenient and more energy-efficient home automation solutions.

There has been an uptick in the use of the following appliances:

  • Coffee makers. Sync coffee makers with a Wi-Fi-enabled alarm clock to begin brewing as soon as the alarm sounds.
  • Ovens. Monitor the cooking process from any web-enabled device with built-in oven cameras.
  • Refrigerators. View images from internal fridge cameras to determine what items need to be restocked, or access digital media on its touchscreen display.
  • Washing machines. Start or stop cycles remotely, or receive alerts when a cycle has ended.

3. Household Robots

An estimated one in ten American households will have a housekeeping robot by 2020. Keep tabs on your home and increase convenience with a household robot.

Homeowners can program cleaning robots, such as the iRobot, to assist in completing daily tasks (e.g. mopping or vacuuming floors). Housekeeping robots are versatile and may be used to clean specific types of flooring, such as wood, tile or carpet.

4. Wearable Technology

A growing number of homeowners are using wearable technology to enhance home security and convenience. More than 245 million wearable device units will be sold in 2019, enabling homeowners to remotely monitor and manage their smart devices using their security provider’s mobile app. Use wearable technology to arm or disarm your security system or to gain instant access to the following smart devices:

  • Door locks. Remotely lock or unlock doors.
  • Garage doors. Receive alerts when the garage is left open or any time the door is accessed.
  • Lights. Schedule lights to turn on or off to conserve energy or make it appear as though someone is home while you are away.
  • Surveillance cameras. View footage from any security camera in real-time.
  • Thermostats. Adjust the room temperature from any location.

When installed correctly, these automated devices can help homeowners stay connected to their homes at all times. Leverage advancements in home automation to enhance home security, comfort and convenience.

How could you benefit from the emerging trends in home automation? Share with us in the comments below.