New research finds nearly half of homeowners find smart devices for the home too costly
New research by Unhooked Communications has revealed that millions of consumers are being put off purchasing smart technology for their homes due to feeling overwhelmed with the products currently available on the market.
Despite two thirds of UK homeowners already owning at least one piece of smart tech, 43 per cent are hesitant about purchasing more due to being worried about cost, while two fifths feel hesitant by the wealth of devices on offer.
An additional factor into confidently buying smart tech finds 39 per cent of consumers are unsure of their ability to correctly install the products themselves, and almost two fifths worry about potential security risks.
Kevin McSorley, Head of Radius Connect24, recently discussed how to approach technology within housing services to support tenants welfare and requirements.
Detailed in the Homes Unhooked PR and Marketing Report, released by Unhooked Communications, the research also shows that despite concerns, more than half of people hope to buy new smart technology for their home in the next 12 months.
Drivers for consumers’ purchasing include 16 per cent that are looking for increased convenience, 15 per cent are seeking smart technology to enhance security, 15 per cent want to improve energy efficiency, and one tenth are looking to create a customised home.
Topping the list of planned purchases, nearly one quarter of respondents are looking to buy smart doorbells, nearly two tenths want smart lightbulbs, external cameras are on the radar of 17 per cent of respondents, 14 per cent want smart plugs and 13 per cent are looking to buy alarm systems and locks.
Within the top 10 home tech purchases planned in the next 12 months, 13 per cent are looking to purchase a lighting control system. Smart lighting helps people to live at home independently by reducing the risk of accidents and falls when getting up in the night by turning on in response to movement, according to Independent Living.
Also in the top 10, over one tenth of people are interested in purchasing smart robot cleaners. A recent study, which includes a state-of-the-art smart home at Aberystwyth University, tests assisted living technology that improves the quality of life for the elderly, such as an autonomous vacuum cleaner, a mobile robotic arm, and a companion cat named “Pixel” to assist people within the home.
Claire Gamble, Managing Director of Unhooked Communications, said: “With technology advancing at such a rapid pace, it’s an exciting time for businesses manufacturing, supplying and selling smart home products and services.
“Although many people are embracing tech for the home, some are too overwhelmed by the choice and worried about issues such as integrating and using the devices, security and cost.
“Understanding these concerns can help marketing teams to tailor their messaging and develop content that not only promotes the benefits of the products, but also reassures consumers, informs buying decisions and provides additional support once the sale has been made.”
Tracey Hipkiss, Clinical Applications Specialist at Tunstall Healthcare, recently discussed how technology can support people with dementia and Alzheimer’s and the people who care for them.
