HIGH-TECH IN THE HOUSE
New gadgets unveiled at Consumer Electronics Show
If you have ever wanted to experience zero gravity but can’t afford a trip to the moon, the recent Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas may have a solution. A new bathtub gives the feeling of weightlessness while users bathe by mimicking the natural position of astronauts when they float in low-gravity conditions.
If weightlessness isn’t for you, there are plenty of other smart-home gadgets that can bring your living spaces to the cutting edge of home design.
Here are some of the new home devices introduced at the CES:
HOME SECURITY
ADT Security Services introduced its Video Doorbell that will integrate with the rest of the home security products under the ADT Pulse brand. Locking or unlocking doors and activating the whole-house alarm system can be controlled via the mobile app.
A new conversion kit from Kwikset lets you turn traditional door locks into smart locks you can control from any internet-connected device. The Z-Wave technology is compatible with several major lock brands, not just Kwikset, and allows users to monitor which doors are locked as well as provide remote entry to their home for visitors.
The Caseta lighting system by Lutron combines making life easier with several security features. In addition to customizing lighting preferences and schedules, the device has an All On bedside button option that turns on all the pre-selected lights in the house to ward off intruders.
Ring has unveiled a full suite of monitoring devices that integrate with its new app. This includes a set of battery-powered and motion-activated outdoor lights that integrate with the alarm and cameras to send alerts to the user’s mobile device. It also includes motion-activated cameras, flood and freeze detectors, smoke and carbon monoxide sensors and a discreet control hub that integrates all the systems.
The home security system Vivent previewed Streety that lets neighbours upload recordings from their security cameras to share with other approved users (they must live within a radius of 300 yards, or 275 metres). Users can attach messages to the recordings to start a conversation about the recorded event as well as request footage from other users for specific dates and times. The app will debut this spring.
SMART MIRROR
Verdera, the Alexa-enabled smart mirror by Kohler, can adjust to pre-set lighting customizations, play music and podcasts and provide a motion-activated night light. Verdera was named a CES Innovation Awards honoree at this year’s conference.
HVAC
Carrier introduced a ductless air conditioner with the highest efficiency rating on the market. The 9,000 BTU single-zone air conditioner can also provide heat during winter and manage humidity levels using an integrated humidity sensor. It comes with a connected Wi-Fi feature so users can control the device via the mobile app and a motion detector to reduce energy use when no one is in the room.
PLUMBING
Part of the Neorest collection by luxury plumbing company Toto includes a bathtub that lets users mimic the natural position of astronauts. Referred to as Zero Dimension technology, the Flotation Tub adds gentle water jets so you can achieve a feeling of weightlessness while here on Earth.