The home security industry continues to evolve. The wide range of security options available today was made possible by aggressive advances in technology. But while home security trends become even more sophisticated each year, so does tech-savvy burglars and criminals, who use social media to target victims and know a thing or two about hi-tech security systems. Thirteen seconds. That's how long it takes before another home is broken into, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
That means a family is falling into the hands of burglars while trying to spell out the word burglar. In a survey of reformed burglars, 94% said they would avoid a house with an alarm or security system. This means that if you still do not have an alarm monitoring system installed in your home, you are practically inviting intruders in. Make your home safer this coming year with these security system trends.
Go wireless
Wireless alarm systems are becoming more and more popular. They are easier to install and do not require a lot of work. You can also move them around the house where it is most convenient. And you would be surprised that wireless technology is actually affordable. Need another reason to go wireless? Let's just say roughly 25% of burglars reported cutting alarm wires before barging into a home. Convinced now?
Mobile video surveillance
The cutting-edge technology of surveillance cameras have been around for a long time. But as the years passed and as the demand increases, there have been a lot of improvement on video surveillance. Video quality is now a lot better. For one, video feed now has color. You can also remotely access the videos via mobile applications or in your computer. Wherever you are, you can check in on your home.
Video analysis
Traditional security systems are used primarily for post-event investigation. After the burglary has happened, police look to surveillance cameras to tell them a thing or two about the intruders. But with a whole lot of technological possibilities, video has become more functional and capable that they are able to predict a crime before it happens. Video content analysis provides the ability to detect and analyze abnormal behaviors and movement patterns in areas of interest. An alert is then automatically issued to warn you and give you time to take action.
Remote monitoring and notifications
With the birth of smartphone technology, your home can be even safer. In 2016, you will see trends in home security that revolve around remote monitoring. Unique features such as customized apps that notify you when an alarm is triggered are useful security tools. Advanced security systems will also notify you if your windows are open or if your kids are home from school.
Controlling a smart home
It's time that you know what a smart home is and what it can do for you. A market research survey in 2014 found that 52% of American adults feel that having a smart home is important. Sixty-two percent said that it is security and home monitoring that they are after. Aside from security, home automation also lets you control your home anytime, anywhere. You can control a number of systems in the house like adjusting thermostat, turning off the home theater system, syncing some appliances, and deactivating lights and electrical outlets. The genius of home automation increases the amount of convenience that a security system typically provides.
Mind your front door
If you think burglars are all for finding the most uncommon entry point to break in, you're wrong. Majority of home intrusions were through the front door and 30% of burglars entered the home through an unlocked door without resorting to force. This means that you have to bolster your front door security. It's a good thing that your front door can be a really smart one with automated door locks, smart door bells, facial recognition, motorized shades, and lighting.
Working towards integration
In some ways, technology is ahead of the home security industry. For example, some of the security systems being installed today are still "standalone" technology. This means alarm only or video only. In 2016, security providers will work towards system integration: monitor, access, and control all in one device. This aims to take security systems to a whole new level, wherein convenience, efficiency, and practicality are all priorities.
Bluetooth connectivity
Bluetooth smart short-range connectivity is an exciting addition to home security. This technology also uses mobile devices for access control. Through this, you will be able to open and close doors and the gate from a distance. It also connects the rest of your home to a mobile phone, laptop, computer, or any bluetooth-compatible device. Sensors, lights, doors, windows, and motion detectors can be controlled.
Biometric identification
A lot of government systems are now using biometrics. Home security is no exemption. Biometrics technology refers to an automated system that can identify an individual by specific uniqueness and patterns and comparing them to the ones on record. This technology can identify a person through his fingerprints, face, palm prints, signature or retinas for easy and convenient verification. This adds another layer of security at home. No one gets through that door if he doesn't have an existing record. Say goodbye to keys, magnetic cards, IDs, and forgotten passwords.
Up in the cloud
Everything's up there in the cloud, including your home's safety. Cloud-based software solutions are a big thing in the security industry today and will be for a long time. Cloud technology promises increased amount of control and management. Cloud-based applications increase the ability of machines to communicate with each other using the Internet.
Interconnectivity via Internet of Things
Internet of Things (IoT) is a buzzword for the home security market. IoT is crucial in the developers’ and providers' aim for the ultimate interconnectivity. Through the IoT and cloud-based technology, you can connect your camera system with your alarm, and your alarm with your lighting sensors, and so on. Ultimately, every piece of your home security package will be interconnected to each other.
Cybersecurity matters
Most of advancements in security technology involve the Internet. This is why you should expect 2016 home safety trends to have a great deal of cybersecurity. Big data manipulation continues to happen and someone has to be responsible. What if a burglar breaks into your system? Securing security systems will remain a hot topic for years to come. The top considerations of home security trends for 2016 are convenience and efficiency. With each year, the trend will remain focused on improving existing features such as video, control, and interconnectivity. For the coming years, home security will no longer just be concerned with protecting our homes, but also making everyday lives more convenient and comfortable.
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