Home technology is advancing rapidly, with 2024 set to usher in faster internet, smarter devices, better security, and more efficient energy use in South African households.
As 5G infrastructure expands across South Africa in the coming year, homes will gain access to lightning-quick speeds, near-instant communication between connected devices, and improved stability for controlling systems remotely. This connectivity boost lays the groundwork for the next generation of clever home products.
Artificial intelligence (AI) will bring intuitive learning capabilities to products like smart lighting, security systems, and maintenance helpers. By observing behaviours and adapting to residents’ habits, AI-enabled devices can automatically tune homes to meet personal needs without complicated setups. And as generative AI matures, it may even schedule appliance repairs based on homeowners’ availability.
With strong connectivity and smart features comes a need for robust security – advances like biometric and blockchain protection will help guard against intrusions. Behaviour-monitoring AI can also alert homeowners and security teams about unusual activity detected inside properties.
Finally, strain on South Africa’s power grid is driving an increase in solar adoption and intelligent energy optimisation. Smart technologies can monitor usage patterns across homes, identify savings opportunities, and automatically adjust consumption while residents are away. This greater self-sufficiency and efficiency will be key as rolling blackouts persist.
“In 2024, smart homes will become sanctuaries of innovation, enriching the lives of South Africans,” says Dr. Andrew Dickson of CBI-electric. From personalised experiences to intuitive assistive abilities, the homes of the near future promise to understand and meet our needs like never before.
