Smart Home News

Is green ready for mainstream?
Builders can look at green home technologies as a way to appeal to a specific group of homebuyers; future-proof homes or remain competitive in a changing marketplace.

The Technology for Aging in Place
New technologies are creating a revolution in the ability of individuals to stay at home.

Nearly 40% would pay for TV Everywhere
A survey by The Diffusion Group shows that many consumers would not mind paying for a TV Everywhere-style service that allows them to watch their favorite TV shows on the computer.

DVDs down, but downloads are up for home entertainment
The first half of 2010 presented a mixed bag in home entertainment as the decline in DVD sales outweighed the growing consumer interest in digital streams.

Smart grid saves energy, makes money
Kohl's saved $50 million by converting 500 of its stores to Energy Star buildings. It's built 45 Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified green buildings, and has committed to building all new stores this way.

Ecotality unveils consumer EV charging stations
The Blink Level 2 wall mount charger for the home can be installed in a garage or outdoors in a carport.

Internet 'more important' than food, drink
FIFTH of net-addicted Aussies rate internet access at least as vital as electricity, gas, power and water.

Supersensitive devices to anticipate our needs
Sophisticated sensors and software in the not-too-distant future will, according to this report, turn consumer-electronics devices into "hyperattentive butlers" that not only do our bidding but entertain us as well.

Ruminations on iTV
Cable has been talking about interactive TV for years, but now it's finally happening. What will it ultimately look like?

Amazon stands out as a mobile-commerce model
With $1 billion in sales of mobile products, Amazon is proving to other retailers that consumers are willing to shop through their mobile phones.

Microsoft Hohm connects to home power monitor
If you're cranking the air conditioner a lot this summer, a product bundle using Microsoft Hohm will tell you a lot about your upcoming energy bills.

Smart houses key to keeping aged at home
SMART houses equipped with movement sensors and intelligent systems are the key to keeping aged people well and living in their homes.