4 Smart Home Trends to Watch in 2017

It’s that time of year again when everybody makes predictions for the year ahead. Politics, business markets, fashion, and definitely gadgets. Indeed, Technology has become such an important part our everyday lives that more and more attention is given to technology all the time.

The rise of the smart home is one of the foremost areas of technology news today. The new smart phones will undoubtedly have better cameras, Clearer screens, and faster processors. But home automation technology is a relatively unexplored frontier that promises to change the way we spend time at home. It promises to change everything from security to climate control to lighting and even entertainment. And this is just the beginning. It won’t be long before our homes are even able to help with the cooking and cleaning.

So what are the top home automation trends to watch for the year ahead? Are there things homeowners should consider investing in now? Are there areas of home automation where it might be better to wait before investing? Let’s take a closer look at what’s happening in smart home technology right now.

1. Camouflage or “invisible” gadgets

High-end kitchens have made use of “hidden” appliances for a long time, such as dishwashers that blend seamlessly into the cabinetry. Expect home automation solutions to become more aesthetically pleasing in the year ahead. This will hinge not only on the devices themselves, but on specialists who come up with creative installation solutions.

2. Voice-based controls

With the rise of voice-based interactive devices (most notably the Amazon Echo and Apple’s Siri), home automation will begin to follow the same pattern as more and more aspects of the home become manageable through voice commands.

3. Next-generation locking systems

We’re all used to “clicking” to unlock our cars, but until now, we haven’t trusted our home security to be managed in the same way. Smart home locking systems will continue to become more sophisticated and easier to use, with automated locking features that can easily be managed—even with your hands full.

4. Smart monitoring and security

Feeling safe at home is a high priority for the vast majority of Americans, and home automation technology will continue to evolve in that area. Smart motion sensors can already activate cameras and send live alerts to administrative users, complete with video files. More Americans will make use of smart security to keep their homes safer in the year ahead.

Keeping up with the Joneses

It’s important to be smart about smart home automation. Effectively integrating new technology into our homes isn’t just about running after the latest trends. It’s about understanding what types of features we really need and want in our home, and which devices are really going to make a difference in the day-to-day. Navigating the constantly changing landscape of home automation technology is much easier when you have an objective, skilled expert on your side who can give you clear, honest answers about which home automation investments are most effective right now and can help you achieve your goals for a simpler, more comfortable, and more energy efficient lifestyle at home.