Over half of adults (56%) have at least one smart device in their homes
• Modernising the home, time efficiency and energy saving are the top reasons
• Costs and privacy concerns are the main barriers to using them
11 September 2024, Dublin: A recent survey reveals that over half of adults (56%) now use at least one smart device in their homes. Smart speakers (38%), smart plugs (19%) and smart thermostats (17%) are the top smart devices used in homes around the country. This trend highlights a growing shift towards modernising our homes, with time efficiency and energy saving as the main reasons for adopting these technologies. These are some of the key findings of new research conducted amongst 1,000 consumers* on behalf of Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC (Aviva).
Other smart devices used by homeowners responding to the survey include smart lighting (16%), smart security system with door locks/alarms (15%), robot vacuum cleaners (8%), smart fridge freezers (3%) and a further 3% having robot lawnmowers. Only 1% of homeowners surveyed had smart blinds/curtains or a smart pet feeder.
The Aviva survey found that:
- Those in the older age cohorts were less likely to have any smart devices in their homes, with 48% of 45–54-year-olds and 51% of 55+ years olds claiming to have none.
- Smart speakers such as Amazon’s Alexa or Google Assistant are most popular amongst 45-54-year-olds at 41%.
- Respondents in the 18-24 and 25-34-year-age groups were more likely to use smart devices in their homes than those in the older age cohorts.
The survey indicates that smart devices are becoming an integral part of daily life, offering convenience and enhanced control within our homes. From smart thermostats to automated lighting systems, these devices are helping to make homes more efficient and comfortable
Alan Behan, Home Product Manager, Aviva
Respondents to the survey claimed that modernising the home (41%), time efficiency (38%), and energy saving (32%) are the top three ways that smart devices improve life. Other benefits include allowing for remote monitoring of the home (32%), providing enhanced security in the home (27%) and for cost efficiency reasons according to 23% of respondents.
Factors preventing use of smart devices
However, the initial outlay costs remain a significant barrier for 48% of those surveyed. Other reasons preventing homeowners from using them include fear of compromising security/privacy (22%), difficulty setting them up (20%) and issues with internet connectivity amongst 12% of respondents.
The Aviva survey found that:
- The initial outlay costs were an issue for those aged 18-24 (70%) and those aged 45-54 (57%), with more women (51%) than men (46%) claiming this.
- Fear of compromising security/privacy was higher amongst those aged 45-54 (36%) and those aged 25-34 at 32%.
- Having difficulty setting them up was highest amongst those aged 55+ and internet connectivity issues was highest amongst 25–34-year-olds.
Alan Behan continued: “Smart devices can certainly provide convenience and efficiency in the home and can enhance our security, particularly when homeowners are out for long periods during the day or away on holidays. However, the initial outlay costs remain a significant barrier for almost half of homeowners surveyed (48%). Despite the long-term benefits, the upfront costs are preventing wider adoption. Despite this, it is likely that the adoption of smart devices will continue to rise as homeowners better understand the benefits of having these technologies in their homes.”
*The research was undertaken by iReach Insights on behalf of Aviva.