Smart homes are probably the next step in modern lifestyles. But they are still a bit rare in Bangladesh to get your hands on them. Remember watching Ironman at the theatre and wishing that we all had a smart home like that — one that will listen to all our commands and act just the way we want it to? One that we can control with just our words or appearance? Well, those days are not very far. Sure, we do not have a highly advanced AI like JARVIS but we can still create a smart home to make life easier.

So, what can you do to turn your home into a 'smart one?' Let's start from the door.

Smart Doorbell

There are a number of modern features that can be installed at your door. You can acquire a smart doorbell that allows you to see exactly who is calling on you. These smart doorbells are capable of capturing photos and even videos and detecting movement. You can even have an audio conversation with whoever is on the other end of the bell. It's a pretty good choice for people who are concerned about their safety and privacy.

Smart Door lock

Speaking of safety and security, one can also install a smart door lock at the front door. These locks are popular at office settings because they let you control access simply by modifying the programming of the lock.

There are locks that come with the option of passwords, RFID cards (one can also replace the card by using a wristband with the chip embedded in them) and if you want biometric security system, there is the option of fingerprint locks. Some locks will come with all three options. The choice is yours. And while you are installing gadgets to ensure your security, do not forget the most obvious one — CCTV cameras at points of interests. They can be accessed over the Internet from anywhere.

Smart Lights

If you are new to the whole 'smart home' idea then perhaps you can start with the simple things such as the fans and the lights? Smart light bulbs are not only very practical but affordable as well. Have you ever wished that you could control the lights from all across the room, with your smartphone? Smart lightbulbs allow you just that feature and so much more. You can also adjust the brightness according to your need. Using the smart controls, you can also change the colour as well as the colour temperature.

Smart Cleaner

One of the most annoying chores at home has to be cleaning the floor. Vacuum cleaners certainly make the job easier but still tedious. If you are automating your home, getting a robotic vacuum cleaner can be an option. These robotic devices can connect to your home Wi-Fi and you can control them through an app. It lets you set up a cleaning schedule and path. And don't worry, these robots are self-charging so that spares you yet another headache.

Smart Home Assistant

Smart home assistants are actually smart speakers linked to an assistant application. If you have used voice command assistant apps on your phone or something similar, then you know the drill.

These smart speakers can be wired or wireless and they will be connected to the home Wi-Fi and they can respond to voice commands. Which means you can carry out certain tasks just by voice commands.

Obviously, you can play music with a voice command but you can carry out more complicated tasks such as setting a timer or schedule for a reminder. Carrying out Internet searches, controlling the lights and fans or any other smart gadgets that might be connected via the Wi-Fi. Whether you want to get a Google Home or Amazon Echo Dot, that is up to you but with a smart home assistant, you will get the feeling that you are living in the future.

Smart Appliances

Whether it's your air conditioner, refrigerator, washer or air purifier — smart versions of all those appliances are available. You can control them via your smartphone, know their status and get notifications about potential issues beforehand, making life much easier. So, annoying thoughts like- "Did I leave the AC on" can no longer bother you. Just check it on your smartphone and even if you did leave it on, you can control it with just a swipe of your phone.

Online shops like Daraz and Penguin will offer home delivery, shops like StarTech and Ryans will offer a number of items as well and smart home appliances can be found in many appliance showrooms. We recommend a quick online search about the products before buying so that you get an idea about the price as well as the specifications. 

Photo: Collected