How to get started

Welcome to the smart home of the future – that you can already buy on the high street

There are two essential pieces of kit you’ll need to make your home smarter – wireless broadband and a smartphone. The majority of connected gadgets rely on apps stored on your phone, and your broadband as a way of sending and receiving information between devices.

But where to start? if you’re keen to improve the energy efficiency of your home, a smart thermostat is essential. if you’ve got a young family, pets, or want to feel safer at home, then the latest webcams and security systems will give you peace of mind. But possibly the easiest and most entertaining way to experience smart living is through your hi-fi or TV.

Take your pick

The choice is yours, but have a think about what you want your home and appliances to be able to do. Chances are there’s a gadget out there to make it happen!

The Philips Ambilight TV beams light from its sides, filling your room with the ambience of what’s happening on screen. From £799, ao.com

The 40in Philips 5500 series LED TV range has built-in Wi-fi and comes loaded with smart features, £329, Currys

Change the colour and brightness of the Mipow Playbulb candle from your smartphone, £31, Amazon