Brits don’t want smart homes to snoop

Other concerns include the technology being hacked by criminals (51%), being made unusable by a virus (43%) and recording you without your knowledge (42%), said MoneySuperMarket.

The research found that whilst the majority (77%) of respondents had heard of a ‘connected’ home, only 6% claimed to know a lot about smart home technology. The most popular gadget was a smart TV, with 30% owning one, followed by a smart energy meter (16%).

When asked what smart home gadget they would like to see invented, said the website, answers ranged from self-cleaning ovens (29%), self-emptying bins (11%) and self-pouring wine fridges (5%), to smart dog walkers and self-emptying dishwashers. More outlandish suggestions included auto-spray devices that would deal with cold callers and robot dogs with the ability to do chores.

Smart homes insurance

Smart home technology focused on home security and fire prevention benefits insurers as it reduces claims, with insurers then able to pass these savings on to consumers, said the website. 58% of respondents said they would buy a smart device if helped them save money on their home insurance.

“It’s up to the makers of smart devices and applications to reassure consumers that they are not putting themselves at risk,” said MoneySuperMarket. “And it’s also vital that any cost savings that flow from adopting connected technology, such as reduced pay-outs for burglary claims, are passed on to customers in the form of lower home insurance premiums.”

The website has its version of a connected home here.