If you’re thinking about transitioning into a smart home, here are some unique ideas for smart phone upgrades that can optimize your home’s capabilities.
Smart locks
Smart locks are great additions to any smart home, allowing users to lock and unlock doors with a single click on a smartphone. Most are compatible with virtual assistants such as Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri. When they’re paired with a smart doorbell or door camera, smart locks are also helpful for people who can’t always get to the door quickly. See who’s at the door, communicate through the doorbell device, and even unlock the door without the hassle of rushing to the door. You can also give out temporary “guest keys” for visitors. This feature is perfect for overnight visitors or for rental guests if you’re renting out your home or using room-sharing platforms.
Smart garage door
Smart garage doors add security. You’ll no longer need to press an opener multiple times to open the garage door, and you can open and close the door from anywhere with your smartphone. Most smart doors are also compatible with virtual assistants, which can notify you when the door is left open and swiftly close it. Pair the door with security cameras for a live feed of the garage and surrounding areas to remotely monitor it.
Smart window treatments
Smart window treatments are a relatively new smart home option. Investing in smart blinds can save energy and add convenience. Dog barking up a storm outside? Close the blinds to minimize the noise. You can also close your blinds at the hottest point of the day to protect your furniture and hardwood flooring from sun damage and to keep your house cooler naturally. Best of all, you can control your blinds from anywhere. Even when you’re at home, you can use your smartphone or virtual assistant to control your blinds so that you don’t have to get up and close all your shades.
Smart refrigerator
A smart refrigerator can make life a lot easier. Features differ greatly by model, but here are some of the most common features:
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Looks up recipes. Your smart refrigerator can browse the Internet for recipes, add ingredients to your shopping list, and tell you how to make a dish. Say goodbye to throwing together last-minute meals.
- Creates grocery lists. Some smart fridges can learn your eating habits and add items to your grocery list automatically. Drink a can of soda every day after work? Never worry about running out again—your fridge will plan for you.
- Shows you what’s inside. Many models have interior and exterior cameras so that you can check what you need while you’re shopping for groceries. Not sure if you need more eggs? Peek inside your fridge remotely to check.
- Tells you when food expires. Some models allow you to input expiration dates, and then they notify you when your food is about to or has already expired.
