Research conducted by OnePoll indicates that security is the main priority for many consumers considering deploying connected technology in their home.
Although the living room may be the hub for most technology the home, with smart TV’s and tablets the key points of entry, increased interest in home security and heating control are expected to lead investment elsewhere in the home.
Recently unveiled research, commissioned by online electricals retailer AO.com, found that smart security systems will propel the connected home industry forward, with 37% of the UK population indicating they would invest in the technology if money were no object. Security was prioritised over whole-home remote-controlled heating (29%) and virtual digital assistants such as the Amazon Echo or Google Home, which only 1 in 8 of the population said they would buy (12%).
Convenience and saving time critical
Of the 2,000 male and female respondents that own or rent their homes and own at least one TV an computing device, 68% see positive factors in owning smart technology such as ‘convenience’ and ‘saving time.’
18-24 year olds believe that this form of technology could benefit the elderly, whilst 25-34 and 45-54 year olds think that a smart home would help save money in the long run.
Changing viewing habits
39% of respondents said they currently own a smart TV and a further 15% say they will buy one in the next 12 months, with 75% believing they will have a smart TV in the future. 38% of 18-24 years olds that don’t own a smart TV said they don’t feel the need to buy one.
The study highlighted that viewing habits are also appear to be changing, with 32% of the UK opting to watch on-demand services, subscriptions or streaming, rather than live TV.
In the UK, London and Northern Ireland are likely to be some of the first regions to adopt Smart Home Automation, with East Anglia lagging behind.
Most desired smart products in the UK
Aside from laptops and tablets, TV and heating services were the products highest on the wish list of consumers planning to buy new technology for the home in the next 12 months.
Most popular products:
• Smart TV/4K/OLED (15%)
• Smart TV accessory (11%)
• Remote heating control (9%)
• Virtual digital assistant (5%)