How The IoT Is Changing Our Daily Lives
As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the Internet of Things (IoT) creates an extensive network of devices that regularly exchange data. While this interconnection is happening in businesses and throughout organizations on a global level, it’s also happening in individual homes.
Here are six smart home tech devices that work together to help a house run more efficiently and should be in everyone’s home.
1. Smart thermostat
Keeping a house consistently at the right temperature not only provides a more comfortable home, but can ultimately save a lot on heating bills. Some smart thermostats can easily be controlled using a smartphone or a computer. These devices detect the temperature in each room and allow the heating or air conditioning to run until the desired temperature is achieved. They also let you program a schedule of temperatures for different days of the week and different hours throughout the day.
2. Controllable slow cooker
Being able to manage meals when you’re away from home is a great way to save time and stay organized. Through smartphone apps, you can adjust the setting on the slow cooker from just about anywhere. You can also adjust temperature and cooking time and check the status of your meal. These high-tech slow cookers are not only convenient, they’re also large capacity and dishwasher safe.
3. Sleep tracker
Getting a good night’s sleep is essential to overall health and productivity, and trackers help you take control of your sleep. Trackers are available as headbands and masks, and smart mattress covers come with a variety of integrated sensors. Rings and wristbands can monitor the duration and stages of sleep. Some more advanced devices even track brain waves in real time.
4. Video monitor
Whether it’s watching the kids or pets or for general home security, a video monitor is one smart device every home should have. Indoor monitors include zoom functions, night vision, and two-way audio so you can talk to whomever is in the room. Outdoor models are weatherproof and can be monitored by mobile apps or the web. I especially like the video doorbells that let you see and talk to anyone who rings your doorbell, even if you are miles away.
5. Smart body analyzer
Smart body analyzers monitor several aspects of your health. For example, small multipurpose devices record blood pressure, EKG, temperature, and oxygen levels from your finger or forehead. More elaborate analyzers delve deep into the body and measure fitness levels through muscles. When placed on areas of your body, these devices use electrical myography to determine the strength of various muscles.
The smart scale may be the ultimate IoT device. These scales can determine fat mass, lean mass, and BMI, and they’re wi-fi-connected so they can send detailed information to an online account (and even put your weight on Twitter to keep you motivated!).
6. Smart home hub
The home hub is where all your IoT devices come together. It acts as a mission control center, enabling all plugs and sensors to together seamlessly. Homeowners should invest in a smart hub that effectively meets their individual needs. Home hubs with a variety of features, including voice activation, can be purchased for less than $200.
Smart home tech devices are the future of our daily lives. The IoT brings them all together into one workable system that provides cutting-edge technology at your fingertips.
For more insight on the transformative power of IoT, see The Da Vinci Code To The Internet Of Things.