Emerging demand for smart homes in India

Home automation is no longer the stuff of science fiction; it has become real with the concept of smart home. Equipped with latest features and technologies, a smart home is being touted as the biggest innovation in the real estate sector today, and they are more in demand. As per Colliers International India, the concept is still evolving in India, although at its core is the ability to manage a system of networked devices, also known as the Internet of Things (IoT), and servicing powering homes remotely through apps on smartphones and computers. The adaptation of a smart home is largely driven by various smart devices for convenience, security, entertainment, efficiency and health. In India, the concept was earlier limited to luxury segment only, but it is entering into the mid-income segment also. The increment in its demand has shot up due to a rise in internet penetration and affordability of smart devices. Talking about the smart homes, Gaurav Mittal, Managing Director, CHD Developers, said, “The smart homes concept is new to India and it is trending in the Indian real estate market. Smart home technology products aim to incorporate comfort, entertainment, mobility and security, providing consumers with connected solutions all the time.” In his opinion, new advanced technology is making people smarter and that too homes; a variety of things can be controlled like lights appliances, security systems from anywhere in the house or as well as any region in the world by phone and internet. As per Anarock Property Consultants, in India, these are common in IT-centric areas like Pune’s Kharadi and Navi Mumbai in Mumbai. "Today’s homebuyers look for a home which complements them and simplify their busy lives. With Vatika smart homes you would be able to control your gadgets through a voice command or remotely through a mobile app. We have focussed on the elements which make a home more convenient,” said Anupam Varshney, Head Sales and Marketing, Vatika,“The concept of smart homes is set to revolutionise the real estate sector and we are glad to provide the same to Vatika buyers. Vatika Automated Smart Homes will be available in Vatika India Next and Vatika India Next 2 townships in Gurugram,” he stated. Increasing awareness about the need for environmentally sustainable development and living is also another reason for the rise in the increasing demand for smart homes. Thus, a genuine smart home is conceived and developed with a certain tech-enabled focus, ensuring optimal use of the facilities at the project level. It becomes necessary for a developer to use the latest technology without ignoring quality and security.