You've probably heard the term “smart” used in relation to a variety of devices, including smartphones, smart watches, and now smart homes. A smart home is a home that integrates several different features to create a web of connectivity that makes the lives of its residents easier and safer. Just as smart watches tell the time, monitor your heart rate, and connect to your phone to send messages, smart homes use devices to provide voice-activated home assistants, remote security controls, and more. Provides functionality.
According to Oberlo, the number of people using smart home devices in 2022 was approximately 57.4 million. Millions of people interact with artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things almost every day, so it's important to understand what artificial intelligence does. While AI and IoT may still seem like incredibly advanced technologies, they are closer (literally) than you might think.
What is the Internet of Things (IoT)?
According to Amazon, the Internet of Things refers to “a collective network of connected devices and technologies that facilitate communication between the devices and the cloud, and between the devices themselves.” This means that the Internet of Things has two parts: an intangible part and a tangible part.
For example, devices like smart outlets can track power usage, remotely shut off power to specific outlets, and even automate this feature. This helps reduce energy usage at home.
IoT devices often have other capabilities that allow the device to produce the desired connectivity and outcomes. These other capabilities may include telematics, which is used in industrial and commercial industries to improve route planning and fleet management efficiency. IoT applications can also be integrated with VR. By cross-applying these capabilities to home networks, smart device companies can expect to improve device connectivity and communication over long distances.
How can AI work with IoT?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is another feature that may be integrated into IoT devices to improve smart home connectivity and efficiency. There are many ways to integrate AI into various IoT-connected smart home devices.
home security
You can incorporate AI into your home security system to manage your safety. For example, an AI-enabled smart camera could track movement and identify the type of movement occurring in front of it. This gives you more information about your property without having to manually review captured footage every second.
data security
AI can help identify and respond to security threats such as personal data theft. AI-enabled programs such as virtual private networks (VPNs) enable stronger network security even outside the device owner's network. Connecting to public, unsecured Wi-Fi without a VPN can put your personal data at risk of being intercepted by hackers.
energy efficiency
As mentioned earlier, IoT can work with AI technology to reduce energy usage. Smart appliances, smart outlets, and other IoT devices with sensors that receive usage data can all sense individually and reduce or increase energy usage based on daily patterns. Additionally, IoT devices allow you to remotely control things like thermostats, security systems, and even lights, all from your phone. This way, you won't forget to turn off the lights or leave the thermostat on high while you're out.
Improved cross-device functionality
AI and IoT devices help improve integration and interaction between smart and mobile devices. Most AI and IoT work over the internet, so they can communicate with other internet-enabled devices such as phones and watches that are part of a smart home system. This means you can easily access all the smart home devices you have at hand, without having to manually go to each device to receive data or manage commands.
Additionally, devices such as smart routers can also optimize your home internet by using AI to determine the best prioritization of devices on your Wi-Fi connection for faster internet speeds. can. This helps improve internet coverage across your home devices.
Things to keep in mind when integrating AI and IoT devices into your smart home
If you're thinking about integrating AI and IoT devices into your home, there are several factors to consider. Devices alone do not make up a “smart home.” These factors include:
Make sure your device is compatible: Not all devices are universally compatible. It's important to focus on compatibility, especially IoT devices that rely on compatibility to continue functioning at their best. You can find more information about device compatibility online or at your device retailer.
Choose practical items: The goal of smart homes, and the AI and IoT devices within them, is to improve efficiency, not complicate it. Think critically about what you use every day and how these devices make it easier. For example, if you are not a gardener, it may not be worth setting up a smart hydroponic system, even if your home and devices can support such a system.
Maintenance and Maintenance Frequency: As mentioned earlier, it is important to think critically about the device you choose. All devices require maintenance, software upgrades, and sometimes hardware updates. When thinking about what you want from a smart home, consider what your short-term and long-term maintenance schedules are and make sure this is something you are proactive about.
Overall cost: Finally, consider the overall cost of these integrations. In addition to the cost of the device, there are also associated costs. This may include his one-time costs, such as upgrading his Wi-Fi at home, or the monthly cost of a subscription, such as a VPN to keep his device secure. Some insurance companies may offer incentives for installing smart security devices, which can save you money overall. Make a list of all the costs and savings you may be eligible for in order to receive a final budget for your smart home devices.
Although the setup may seem complicated at first, setting up AI and IoT devices in your smart home can significantly improve your quality of life. As technology continues to evolve, people with compatible smart homes will be able to enjoy all the benefits of this cutting-edge technology.