Smart home sales to grow amidst global pandemic

As people remain quarantined in their homes, demand for smart home devices like smart speakers and lighting, security products and appliances are expected to rise.

COVID-19 situation

The global has caused an upsurge of work-from-home arrangements and has made home quarantine the new normal. With the majority of the population staying at home, interest and value in voice-controlled smart home devices has grown since they help minimize possible transmission on commonly touched surfaces like light switches, remotes, door handles and more. ABI Research estimates a 30 percent sales growth on voice-enabled units, with about 180 million units to be sold at the end of 2020. Buyers looking to source what's hot in the electronics market despite the pandemic can start sourcing smart home devices like voice-activated speakers, lights & controls and smart doorbells, which are readily available on Global Sources.

Smart speakers

These devices are popular with the Gen-Z youth and the millennials, the largest spending generation. The latest models now have added features like voice recognition in regional languages, music playback, and streaming and podcast support – which, in turn, attract more consumers. Some smart speakers can be used for online shopping. This convenience helps reduce face-to-face interactions in public, further decreasing any possible virus transmission.

Smart lighting

With smart lighting and home automation products, users won't have to constantly touch switches at home. House lights can all be controlled via smartphone apps, voice-control and motion. These energy-efficient smart lights can be operated remotely and can produce different variations of colored lights, which can make smart homes even more attractive.

Security

Home security products like smart doorbells and video cameras help avoid face-to-face interaction of homeowners and people outside. Conversations can be carried out via video doorbells and smart intercom systems. Deliveries being sent at home can be dropped directly at the doorstep. ABI Research Director Jonathan Collins states that these “delivery capabilities are especially valuable for that already in-home quarantine or for those receiving home testing kits."

Collins adds that "a smarter home can be a safer home." As the world adjusts by assimilating stronger safety measures against viruses, homes are getting smarter and safer as well.