These days it seems as if there’s a new gadget for everything; different kinds of technologies are introduced every day and Necessary Hi-Tech Product can easily be found  on http://www.4prototypes.com. It can feel hard to keep up with all the new updates, and discerning what is a legitimately useful device and what is a just another gimmick, is difficult. However, when it comes to improvements in “smart” home technology, there is a growing number of useful, impactful advances.

Smart home technology – a long-term investment

One of the biggest downsides to investing in smart home technology is the price. Purchasing new devices, and updating your home’s compatibility can be quite expensive, reducing the accessibility of smart home products. Coupled with other necessary payments, such as your mortgage or other debts, updating your home’s internal fixtures can seem too expensive and extravagant a venture. The difficulty of this is that in an increasingly technological world, the demand for technologically-capable homes is growing, therefore investing in changes now will increase the overall market value of your home. On the flipside, the good news is that the next time you consider refinancing your home loan (or alternatively, if you’re just entering the market and are researching and comparing home loan options)  in order to make household improvements, consider utilising the extra money to remodel your home with more than just the cosmetic, but also with the latest technological additions.

Virtual assistants

Apple’s introduction of Siri in 2011 was revolutionary and was just the beginning of the rising trend of virtual assistants. These days, thanks to the likes of Amazon and Google, there are many more virtual assistant options flooding the market. Virtual assistants aren’t just fun playthings, or a chance to ask Alexa to play your favourite song; they’re incredibly useful tools that can make your day-to-day life much easier. For most virtual assistants, the amount of commands possible is almost endless, with thousands of actions at your fingertips. You can control your home’s heating, lock doors, and turn lights on and off; just to name a few.

However, many of these commands can depend on your home’s compatibility; this is where upgrading your home’s systems comes in handy. Playing music can be done anywhere with an internet connection, but controlling your heating, lighting and other complex commands requires an update in your home’s internal fittings. This may seem like an unnecessary expense, but as the number of people that own virtual assistants increases, so will the number of home buyers looking for homes with compatible features.

Security systems and virtual locks

Another incredibly useful feature to add to your home is a virtual locking or security system. This can encompass upgraded locks or a system of security cameras to ensure your home is extra secure. Both locks and security cameras can be expensive purchases, however, they do prove useful in the event of intruders, and can even act as preventative measures. There is a myriad of locks and cameras available, all of which differ in complexity and price. It’s worth consulting a professional before installing new systems, as it can be difficult to know exactly what you need.

One commonly listed downside of installing electronic locks is the potential for forgetting codes or passwords. However, many locks still have a keyhole attached meaning there are two methods of gaining entry; decreasing the chance of being locked out. Furthermore, as you can control most locking systems through your smartphone, in the event of forgotten passcodes, entry can still be gained to your home. This convenience and flexibility are part of why smart locks are becoming more-and-more desirable, and a covetable home feature.

Security cameras don’t tend to have many downsides, as they generally function in a seamless manner. Do be cautious of security cameras that are overly sensitive or run by sensors; whilst useful in theory, these types of cameras are easily set off by bugs or animals, and can cause you unnecessary stress and worry.

Whilst for some, adopting (and adapting) your home with smart technologies might not seem like a priority, but the trend is not showing any signs of slowing down. With every passing day, the technology is moving forwards and likewise, more and more owners (and future owners) are putting these additions on their lists when considering their homes. It seems, that now is the perfect time to embrace the future. Adding a smart trash can is also a good idea to make your home smart.