Fresh data from nationwide research shows smart home devices are being used by the majority of Brits on a daily basis and some are leaning on smart technology at least once an hour of their day to manage their homes. As Black Friday and Cyber Monday approach, insights reveal the top priorities and suggests that savvy shoppers are turning to trusted media sources to help guide their choices.
A third (37%) of UK households reported owning at least one smart home device designed to support and manage everyday tasks such as lighting, security, heating, and kitchen appliances.
And one in 10 (10%) people said they have between four to five smart home technology devices set up in their homes, showed the YouGov research of 2000 adults by digital reading app Readly.
Six in ten (65%) smart home device owners interact with their technology on a daily basis, whereas almost one in ten (9%) use their devices every hour, indicating a shift towards a more connected home lifestyle.
Smart TVs are the most common device in the home, with 62% of Brits watching them at least once a week. Smart hub assistants such as Google Nest and Alexa are the second most popular with 50% of people using them on a weekly basis.
Smart devices for listening to music such as speakers are used by 42% of people and are most popular amongst those aged 30-39 (49%), whereas for the over 60s they are used by just 32% .
Home security is also being managed by smart technology with security systems such as video doorbells being used by 33% of people.
Health tech continues to be popular with 32% of respondents using fitness trackers and smart watches on a weekly basis.
When it comes to which smart home devices people will invest in this year, the top priorities amongst Brits were reported to be:
- Security
- Heating
- Entertainment
- Lighting
- Health monitoring
Chris Couchman, Head of Content at Readly said, “Our subscribers want to read about topics that affect, inspire or enhance their everyday lifestyle and smart-home devices are appearing in the top searches this year. From in-depth features on the latest video doorbells to reviews of the latest fitness tracker and airfryer, to cost efficient, lifestyle enhancing expert tips, it is a popular topic to read around as consumers look to make an informed choice”.
Whilst over half (54%) of respondents reported researching online for their home smart tech information, one in four (40%) said they put their trust in government sites and a third (35%) look for guidance from the not for profit sector.
28% are turning to friends and family for information on the latest smart home products and one in 10 (9%) are reading up on the latest reviews and recommendations in tech magazines.
With Black Friday stimulating interest in smart home tech, consumers are increasingly turning to platforms like Readly for comprehensive tech reviews and guides. Tech consistently ranks as one of the top 5 most popular categories on the Readly with many of the smart home devices appearing in its top searches.
“Tech magazines have long been a trusted source of in-depth analyses, user tips, and the latest updates to keep technology enthusiasts ahead of the curve. As Black Friday deals pique interest in smart home technology, people are doing their research to ensure they get the best fit for their tech spending,” adds Couchman.
Readly has over 7,000 titles on its platform including many tech magazines and in depth articles to stay informed on the latest tech and smart home developments.
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