With smart-home technology now firmly in the mainstream, new research carried out by the Dublin-based iReach highlight some concerns over personal data security and the possibility of brands spying on peoples’ every day habits.
The research shows that although only 13% of people in Ireland have a smart home (up 3% from 2018), an enormous 81% of them believe that a smart home makes life much easier. Additionally, 72% say that they are more relaxed as they can control their home from wherever they are.
The strong endorsement for smart homes is continued as a further 77% would recommend a smart home to anyone who is thinking about getting one, with over half (53%) of smart home owners who believe they have saved money by implementing smart technology into their home.
Whilst 48% of people who have a smart home feel safer as a result of the technology, there are nonetheless some concerns around security and data protection.
Some 52% of those with a smart home are fearful of having personal data about their daily habits stolen, an increase of 8% from last year. Similarly, 34% worry about being spied on because of their use of smart technology at home.
The research – which surveyed 1,001 people – shows that 35% of people in Ireland feel that they are likely to implement smart technology in their home in the future, with those aged between 18-34 more likely (41%) to do so than those over 55 year of age (28%).
