The way Americans feel and act about their home security has changed dramatically over the years. Gone are the days when advanced and home automation were rich boys’ toys. Today, a modern home security system is a prerequisite in most homes, rather than a luxury. Once everyone got a basic security system installed in their home, they wanted more. The increasing demands of consumers have pushed over the year to innovate and bring more features, more convenience, and more security, of course.
People now wish to be able to do more with home security and automation. lead the race in the most-wanted-by-homeowners category. With the way smartphones have swept an entire generation off its feet, the demand to be able to control every aspect of life with a dainty handset has opened new vistas in home security.
And the companies have delivered. You now have systems in place whereby you can view a live feed from your home security surveillance on your smartphone. In fact, you can do much more. The “Smarthome” service from AT&T Digital Life lets you control security cameras, thermostats, lights, door locks, and several other appliances remotely from your smartphone.
ADT also offers you the option to check home security and alarm systems, arm and disarm your system, control lights and thermostats, and view security camera feeds right on your cell phone. ADT also gives you the option to specify alert criteria so that in the case of an intrusion, you can receive an alert through a call, text or e-mail. In fact, most today offer smartphone capabilities.
Apart from smartphones, another major part of our lives today is broadband. IP-based security systems, interactive home security, and “Always On” broadband systems are a big hit with consumers. You can control these from anywhere you are, no matter how far from home.
Also gone are the days of a large remote with all kinds of buttons to push for home security. Consumers now want touchscreens to rule the breed and, once again, the companies have delivered. You can now control all of your security cameras, live feeds, home automation – such as lock unlock doors –thermostats, and arm or disarm the system with just a little touch.
Cloud services are another game changer. Alarm dealers as well as technology providers are using cloud services to offer more to their customers, thus multiplying their recurring revenue. When all systems such as security, automation, and technology are integrated in one over a user-friendly interface, the customers are more likely to stick to the one provider instead of changing every few years.
With newer companies entering the home security arena, security systems equipment continues to evolve and take on multiple layers. Rising competition pushes companies to the edge, nurturing innovation in a not-so-subtle way, and the consumers continue to be spoiled for choices. More features for the consumer translate into more revenue for the companies. It’s a win-win for all.
Zach Jefferson
Author – Zach has six years under his belt as a marketing manager within the home security industry. He is in charge of keeping site information as accurate as possible, while developing new content ideas for consumers.