The high tech homes that we became used to seeing in movies are now becoming a reality. Yes, technology has come a long way, as more and more homes today look to get high tech. From controlling your music and lighting with an iPod to getting your home cleaned by simply saying the magic words, home management has become a lot easier with technology. Modern homes have become more energy efficient, green, and cool, and have contributed to the minimalist style of living. So what gadgets are becoming the hottest trends in modern homes? Let’s find out!
Nest Thermostat
What’s better than a thermostat that adjusts itself based on your behavior? Dubbed as the “iPod of thermostats”, Nest Thermostat is designed by the same designer of iPod. This means that the thermostat has the same easy to use interface and elegant design that we have grown accustomed to. It comes in a round shape with different colors which can blend into any wall color it’s installed on. The Nest Thermostat can save lots of energy and money for a cost of $249. For example, when you regularly go out at 8 in the morning and set the temperature to 70 degrees, the thermostat will store that info. It will then use its motion sensor technology to detect presence in the morning, and will save energy by adjusting the temperature accordingly. Through an iOS app, the Nest Thermostat can even be controlled remotely through Wi-Fi!
iRobot Roomba 790
It’s basically a vacuum that costs about $699. That’s quite expensive. But it has a wireless command center (remote) that allows the user to control this device anywhere from the house. It runs scheduled cleanings and it can be steered to any spot in a home through a touch screen remote. Not too expensive now is it? The Roomba is slated to set the trend for modern vacuum cleaners. The wireless command center is a state of the art remote in itself, which can help you to schedule cleaning while you’re not at home, and even clean different floors. Roomba incorporates a three stage cleaning process that includes vacuuming carpets, tiles, hardwood, and linoleum floors. Roomba automatically adjusts to different floors, and cleans even the most barely visible spots. Whenever it runs low on battery, it will automatically head to the Home Base and will recharge in between cleaning sessions. Pretty cool for a vacuum cleaner don’t you think?
Belkin WeMo Switch
Automation made simple. WeMo allows you to turn your iPod, iPhone, or iPad into a universal remote control for other household devices. Integrated with a free WeMo app on app store, the WeMo switch allows you to control any electronic device. It operates through the Wi-Fi network and can be used to start your coffee maker, turn the light on in your home, and do all sorts of things you see in the movies. The app even allows you to schedule other devices to turn on and off at predetermined times. All that for $49 seems to be a good buy, but by investing a total of $99, you can get the Switch + Motion bundle. This will allow you to activate motion sensor functionality. The sensor reads motion activity 10 feet away and automatically turns or off any plugged in devices.
Logitech Alert 750n Indoor Master System
The Logitech Alert 750n Indoor Master System is basically a video security system that has wide angle night vision along with remote viewing. It helps in keeping a watchful eye on your home 24/7, and comes with a free remote viewing account. This allows you to check on your belongings from any corner of the world for only $299. The motion triggered recording is easy to set up and will send you an email or SMS notifications whenever any movement is sensed. Once you get an alert or notification, you can simply access all the controls of your home by using the Logitech Alert Web and Mobile Commander Service. But the best thing about this high tech security system is that you can always add more cameras in and outside your home. Whether you have a high tech home or valuables in it, you can safely go for late night trips knowing that you have an eye on everything that goes in and out of your home!