How is technology changing the way we live?

Twenty or thirty years ago, it would have been almost impossible to imagine the kind of technology the average Australian has access to today. We have iPhones and smart TVs, GPS navigation and fitness watches – and now, the tech revolution is also transforming our homes.

Once the stuff of futuristic sci-fi films, smart living is an everyday reality in thousands of homes across the country – and nowadays the sky is the limit when it comes to making our homes fully automated and integrated at every level.

Entertainment

Turn your entire home into a party palace with a multi-zone audio system controlled by a swipe of your smartphone. The latest in-home audio systems are controlled with touch-screens and mobile apps and are designed to minimise installation hassles by operating through the use of wireless technologies like Bluetooth and wi-fi – so you no longer need to drill holes and run cables throughout the house.

You could also install a home theatre system that turns your spare room into a cinema, and control the lights, surround sound and movie playback from the comfort of your recliner.

Lighting and climate control

Home lighting has evolved from the simple dimmer switch to fully automated smart systems, which enable you to brighten or dim any room with a single device and can even be set up to respond to your daily activities.

Some devices allow you to light the room according to whether you’re cooking, watching TV or having a nap. Controls in rooms can be tucked away discreetly so they don’t interfere with your décor, or you can operate the entire system from one main touch-screen.

Making the switch to L.ED lighting

Climate control systems operate in a similar manner, allowing you to customise the temperature throughout your home – zone by zone.

Using timers, sensors and thermostats, smart climate systems ensure you’re living in comfort year-round and can include window-covering technology to enhance the effect and efficiency of airconditioners and heaters. These technologies can also help homeowners smooth out their quarterly energy bills and reduce their environmental impact by connecting to solar panels and rainwater tanks.

Security

Smart technologies are revolutionising our home including wireless cameras that rotate 360 degrees, automatic door and window locks, video doorbells and alarm systems which can all be integrated to give you a security system to rival Fort Knox. You can even check in on your security cameras via your smartphone. Whatever smart security system you choose, they can help reassure you when you can’t be at home and help you to feel safe when you are.

The new meaning of “remote control”

Remote control is not what it once meant, with today’s technology being controlled through a mobile device. You can log in while on holiday so you can open and close the curtains each day to create the impression someone is home. Or you can ensure the home pre-heated or cooled to perfection ready for you to walk through the door of a night.

Many smart home systems will also notify you if anything out-of-the-ordinary occurs while you’re not home, such as a door or window being left open.