Recent innovations have given way to new technologies that incorporate some type of intelligent behavior. We call them smart devices. Interestingly, the definition of smart devices varies somewhat among experts. IGI Global, in collaboration with researchers, defines smart devices as electronic gadgets that connect to other devices or networks, generally wirelessly, via different protocols that operate interactively and autonomously. This type of modern-day machine-to-machine technology results in the many usable devices available on the market today, such as smartphones, smart cars, smartwatches, and more, that are designed to simplify our lives. Here are three amazing smart devices worth consideration:
A SMART THERMOSTAT –This smart device allows owners to control a home’s temperature through a smartphone. A smart thermostat can be programmed to send notifications to the owner if a home is too cold or warm. This can help prevent frozen pipes, avoid temperature-related issues within the home, and save money on energy. Additionally, being able to adjust the heat, air conditioning, and home ventilation may keep pets comfortable when running errands or working. Smart thermostats are great for people who travel and seek to remotely schedule or adjust their home’s temperature in their absence.
Moreover, they can return home to a comfortable temperature. Smart thermostats can also be integrated into other smart home products, for example, as programmable by voice through a virtual assistant such as Alexa. As a bonus, some recent models come with Alexa already built-in. Tip: Use your smart thermostat app to review your energy usage and receive personalized recommendations on how to save on energy costs.
A SMARTWATCH – There are many smartwatches on the market with a variety of amazing features and price points, and they keep getting better and better! The finest smartwatches can do a large multitude of tasks, including act as digital wallets, aid in communication, and even allow people to answer the phone through the device on their wrist. Perhaps the best part of having a smartwatch is for the protection it provides. Many offer GPS trackers and other useful features, including activity, fitness, and sleep monitoring. Some smartwatch models can read elevated heart rates and detect falls. This is particularly helpful for older Americans as the smartwatch can send direct alerts to emergency medical services for help. These state-of-the-art devices can also perform blood oxygen levels and ECGs (Electrocardiograms) to uncover underlying health issues. More amazing news- the new Apple watch, with the use of an app and the body sensor, can monitor blood glucose levels and track and relay information in the form of a graph. This can be an invaluable tool for diabetics. Tip: Before making a purchase, consider the size of the display and what features are most meaningful.
A SMART SMOKE DETECTOR – Today’s smart smoke detectors are beneficial to own. Not only do they send a blaring alarm to alert owners of a fire emergency, but they are also designed to pinpoint the location of a fire within the home. This feature can be lifesaving. In addition, when you’re away, it can send an emergency alert to your smartphone so that the fire department can be notified immediately. The detectors can also be temporarily silenced. This is especially handy in the kitchen when cooking something smoky. One of the features that consumers like best is that they can receive a notification when the batteries get low or be notified if there is a problem with the device. Added wow power – newer models can incorporate carbon monoxide detection into their products, too, and come with battery back-up for protection during power outages. Tip: Multiple smart smoke detectors can be synced to ring together when one alarm is triggered.
