Home automation and smart home devices are becoming increasingly popular, allowing us to control various aspects of our home environment using our smartphone or voice commands. Here are some of the top smart home gadgets I predict will be must-haves in 2024:
1. Smart Thermostats
Smart thermostats like the Nest Learning Thermostat or the Ecobee SmartThermostat are at the top of my list. These allow me to control the home’s temperature settings remotely via an app. Smart thermostats can also learn my habits over time and automatically adjust the temperature for energy savings when I’m away. Key features I appreciate are voice control compatibility, energy monitoring, and integration with other smart devices. In 2024, I expect smart thermostats will be even more advanced with AI-enhanced efficiency capabilities.
2. Smart Lighting
Smart light bulbs from Philips Hue, LIFX and others that can be controlled remotely and change color are high on my list. With smart lighting, I can automate lights to turn on/off when I’m home/away. I also love setting lighting scenes like “Reading Mode” to control multiple lights from my phone. In 2024, I’m most excited for natural daylight-mimicking bulbs to improve mood and sleep. Voice assistant compatibility for hands-free control will also be more commonplace.
3. Smart Speakers
Smart speakers like the Amazon Echo and Google Home are increasingly popular hubs for controlling other connected home devices using voice commands. In 2024, I expect enhanced conversational intelligence in smart speakers to allow more natural interactions. The ability to detect multiple voices and customize responses for each family member will be an important improvement. I also hope to see advances in voice command security and privacy protection.
4. Smart Security Cameras
In-home security cameras like the Ring Doorbell Camera and Nest Cam Outdoor that integrate with my smartphone allow me to monitor my home remotely. In 2024, I expect AI-enabled analytics to better detect people, vehicles, animals, and packages. Privacy controls will also be improved to address security concerns. Two-way audio, motion tracking, and night vision in ultra HD 4K resolution will provide complete perimeter coverage around my home.
5. Smart Appliances
Having the ability to control appliances via my smartphone offers great convenience. Today, companies like Samsung and LG offer smart refrigerators, ovens, dishwashers, and washing machines. By 2024, I expect nearly every appliance in my home will offer Wi-Fi and app connectivity. Desired improvements include remote monitoring, diagnostics, voice control, and integration with other smart home products.
6. Robot Vacuums
Robot vacuums like the iRobot Roomba and Roborock allow me to keep floors clean with minimal effort. In 2024, I’m excited for robot vacuums to offer complete home mapping, no-go zones, self-emptying, and mopping capabilities. With AI mapping and navigation, robot vacs will cleanly navigate my home without human oversight. Voice assistant integration will also allow me to command cleaning using voice commands.
7. Smart Switches and Plugs
Smart plugs like TP-Link Kasa and Belkin Wemo allow me to control lights, appliances, and other electronics remotely even without built-in smart connectivity. Smart switches like the Lutron Caséta allow me to automate and control lights without replacing bulbs. I expect adoption of smart switches and plugs to surge in 2024 as they offer an easy path to basic home automation. Energy monitoring and usage insights will also improve.
8. Smart Garage Door Openers
Smart garage door openers like the Chamberlain MyQ give me peace of mind by allowing me to check if I’ve left the garage door open and close it remotely from my phone. In 2024, I’m excited to see biometric scanners for keyless entry in addition to smartphone control and voice commands. Integration with other smart devices like cameras and lights to automatically trigger when I open/close the garage will also be useful.
9. Air Quality Monitors
Devices like Awair monitor indoor air quality, temperature, humidity, and more. In 2024, I expect whole home air quality mapping to track conditions room-by-room. Real-time insights and notifications when air quality declines allow me to address issues promptly. I also anticipate advances in smart air purifiers and HVAC systems that can self-adjust based on air quality data.
10. Home Energy Monitoring Systems
Energy monitoring systems like Sense track real-time and historical energy usage at the circuit level to identify waste. In 2024, I expect easy-to-use reporting to compare usage over time and suggest actions to reduce my carbon footprint. AI-powered analytics will better attribute energy usage to specific devices. Ultimately, these insights help maximize energy efficiency and cost savings.
In 2024, I foresee smart home technology focused on making everyday home functions and tasks more convenient while optimizing for energy savings and security. Improved connectivity and integrations between devices along with AI advancements will unlock new and exciting capabilities. I look forward to embracing these innovations!
