In this ever changing world that we live in, there is no escaping technology. Our personal world appears more and more to be enveloped by a device we call a “smart phone”, although more and more of the ‘phone’ use is being replaced by a myriad of ‘apps’, and other functions of the device. From capturing visual moments on the fly to directing us to our next destination, to telling us how to cook our favourite dishes, this device has come a long way since its inception over twenty five years ago. Today’s vehicles are also following suit in the technology game. Most new vehicles today don’t require a key to open the door or start the car, instead opting for a ‘fob’ device one can keep in one’s pocket or purse, and which transmits a signal notifying the vehicle that you are within its vicinity. More, the car will know that it’s actually ‘you’ that is near, and adjust the seats, mirror, and other features to your taste – automatically. Voice commands and other formerly futuristic features are now becoming commonplace in today’s vehicles as well. But what about your home? When most people arrive at their door, they pull out a device that was invented in the 1840’s – a tumbler lock key. Once inside, you feel around for the light switch, invented in 1884. You can probably guess where I’m going with this – the home hasn’t caught up with technology, or has it? While only 12% of homes currently might be considered ‘smart’, that figure is projected to double and triple over the next few years. Why? Because the technology is truly getting ‘smart’, and the price is way down. Much is being said about devices in your home being integrated and controlled by a singular control device. Be it shading, lights, temperature, security, locks, the pool/hot tub, and any number of other electronic devices, there are systems that will control them all, via a wall mounted or portable ipad or remotely through your ‘smart’ phone. But what about Automation? A True Smart Home should work for the home’s occupants, just like your car does. When you arrive home, your home should know it and act accordingly. You can have your system set up so that certain lights turn on at a pre-set time, the shades close, the temperature goes up, and even have the door unlock if the system sees that you are within feet of the door. You could also have one button programmed on your control device that says “Party”, amongst other feature sets. The lights in various areas could alight or dim, the music could begin to play from your favourite source in various specific areas of the house that you’ve previously chosen, and at a pre-set volume level. The gate could unlock for a specified timeframe to allow guests easy access. When you leave your home, press ‘goodbye’ and the security could engage, the shades could close, the music could turn off, the temperature could drop, and all the lights could turn off. If you’re away for an extended period, the lights (and other devices like music) could turn on and off based on your previous two weeks of use so it appears as if you’re home. The list of options is endless. Wake up options, going to sleep options, dinner party options, and more. This year will see a surge in Voice Activated command technology, offering even easier control of all home devices. This is not just a ‘cool’ gadget, but something that will become a mainstay of home control system installations. At a time when technology is offering so many opportunities to enrich and simplify ones daily life, it is clear that technology is moving into the house. For more insight into the options available see your La Scala Integrated Media representative.
