OPINION
Securing opportunities in smart security
In an era defined by the ever-expanding Internet of Things (IoT), the concept of the “smart home” has emerged as a beacon of convenience, efficiency, and connectivity
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The scope of devices available is expanding and evolving. And it can start right from the perimeter systems of a connected home 18
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ur futureproof smart homes promise a world where lights, appliances, thermostats, and even doorbells can be controlled remotely with a smartphone or a simple voice command. According to Laurence Kenny, Pyronix Marketing Director, at the heart of this interconnected web of devices remains our fundamental necessity: security. Especially true in the current challenging climate, where we must continue to educate the market. This is with forward-thinking product design and manufacturers to help offer the necessary protection against a wave of crime. Spurred on by the impact of the pandemic, there has been a clear shift from being the early adopter of fancy gadgets to homeowners understanding the practical insights of embracing new smart technology alongside making homes cheaper and more efficient. To the extent that at the start of 2023, there were 2.22 million smart homes in the UK and this is expected to rise to 29.7 million by 2027. We can continue to embrace the opportunities available with smart security, the challenge being to create integrated solutions that go beyond the obvious. Installers can partner with
manufacturers to share their confidence in the new technology with the consumer. Smart doorbells are the greatest example. With the current trends of rising crime against a cost-of-living crisis and high inflation backdrop, compounded by the much-documented police resource issues. Homeowners want the assurance and visibility associated with smart technology. The practical advantages we know include no more waiting for a delivery, all operated with smartphone alerts when a visitor rings a doorbell. It also means homeowners can send evidence of any attempted break-in or criminal activity, with police actively encouraging use as evidence. This is especially important as we enter the winter months, a time of known increase in crime, where clear visual verification will make the difference to action being taken. Many end users – whilst adopting tech such as smart speakers – are still concerned about issues such as interoperability and aren’t techsavvy when it comes to smart devices. That’s where professional installers are able to leverage their expertise and trust with the end user, to provide devices which work together on one platform and deliver real value to the end user.
www.psimagazine.co.uk
27/10/2023 19:08:54