We're seeing major changes in the home security market—most of which center on technology advancements. Today, home security goes beyond your standard burglar alarms. The best security companies offer a full suite of electronic and interactive security products and services that are tailored to provide the appropriate level of security for each customer.
Looking ahead, technology will continue to be the game changer, driving trends such as:
- Mass adoption of interactive services
- The rise of home automation for everyday families
- Increased consumer preference for system customization
- The revamp of existing, outdated systems
Mass Adoption of Interactive Security Services
As smartphones and tablets continue to grow in popularity, interactive services have become a hot commodity in the security market. Using a smartphone or web app, homeowners can easily access their security systems anytime and anywhere, for added safety and convenience. Your phone, in essence, becomes a remote control capable of managing all aspects of home security—from video surveillance to sensors.
With our always-on, mobile lifestyles, it’s no surprise that remote security access is one of our most-requested features.
And, we expect demand to increase as more mobile millennials become homeowners. Eighty percent of individuals in this age bracket own a smartphone, according to Nielson. That's double that of older age groups. For millennials, mobile is not a nice-to-have feature, but an integral part of everyday activities and communications.
The Rise of Home Automation for Everyday Families
The sophistication of computers makes it possible to automate and remotely control basic home functions, such as lighting, security, heating and air conditioning. While home automation has been around for decades, 2013 has been pegged the year for mainstream adoption. Technologies have finally become more accessible and less cost prohibitive for the average homeowner.
According to ABI Research, home automation is expected to increase to 20 million installed units by 2017, up from 1.5 million in 2011. In addition, research from Parks Associates shows “40-55% of U.S. broadband households are interested in IP-connected home controls and security solutions.”
Increased Customer Preference for System Customization
While your basic alarm system has been around a long time, today's consumers demand customized systems that fit their lifestyles and security needs. More often, customers come to us looking for something beefier than the three-door and a motion detector standard solution that once was commonplace.
Through a thorough needs assessment, a security specialist is able to devise a solution to match your unique lifestyle—whether you require a simple burglar alarm, a true smart house or something in between. Technology has created options, which in turn, has a direct impact on the level of personalization customers demand.
The Revamp of Outdated Technologies
Cellular carriers, such as AT&T and Verizon, have plans to eliminate their 2G networks by 2016, focusing instead on faster speed networks. Consequently, millions of Global System for Mobile (GSM) radios in security systems that rely on 2G technologies will become obsolete.
For consumers, it’s important to be aware of this technology sunset, and ask smart questions of your security provider. Learn which of their technologies will be affected, and how they plan to rollout upgrades to ensure a seamless transition.
