According to a research by Gfk, consumers in Great Britain are more and more interested in the smart home. Gfk surveyed 1000 people online and the research showed that the people’s desire for managing their homes (including heating, security, entertainment systems and household appliances) appeals to more than three quarters (76%) of people. At 84%, the most appealing function is represented by energy meters connected to the grid to help control costs (28% are willing to pay for this), 67% were attracted to a remote controlled home and 67% also find having their TV at the centre of a home network attractive. The TV acts as an information hub, receiving content from other devices including readings smart meters and healthcare information as well as entertainment content (38% are willing to pay for this). Besides, 64% liked the concept of home health monitoring, with personal data on heart conditions or blood sugar levels transferred directly to healthcare professionals. Four in 10 (39%) are willing to pay. “Appetite for the benefits of the smart home – the research explains – is highest amongst younger age groups, reaching 90% of 18-24 year olds and 86% of 25-44 year olds. Interest drops off slightly as people age, down to 56% for those aged 55 years and over. But at over half of this age group, that’s a very strong demand for the smart home”. However, according to the survey, at this moment demand isn’t reflected in willingness to pay – just over one third (35%) of people would invest to make their home smarter. Around half of those aged 18-34 are prepared to pay (49% of 18-24 and 52% of 25-34), falling to one in five (21%) of those aged 54 years and over.
