There are more advanced technologies made for the standard American home than ever before. Three new products that are making waves in the home tech market are VoIP phone systems, smart thermostats, and smart refrigerators.

1. VoIP Phone Systems

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems use the Internet to transmit phone calls. Because they operate via the Internet, VoIP connections can be made by nearly any device that has a broadband connection. Plus, when it comes to VoIP vs landline security, VoIP systems are less susceptible to surveillance than landlines. Like any telephone system, VoIP systems do have their weakness, but VoIP service providers have tried-and-true ways to defend customer privacy, whereas landlines generally cannot be protected. Most importantly, VoIP phone systems cost significantly less than both landlines and cell phones, especially when hardware and data costs are factored in.

2. Smart Thermostats

Digital thermostats were some of the first “smart” devices to make their way into American homes. However, they have recently seen some upgrades. Nowadays, smart thermostats can be programmed to automatically adjust a home’s temperature based on the occupant’s schedule. For example, a smart thermostat can conserve energy by turning down the HVAC system when a homeowner is sleeping or absent at work; by the time they wake up or return home, it will adjust the temperature back to their preference.

Additionally, many smart thermostats now offer room-by-room customization. Exercise rooms can be cooled to accommodate heavy workouts. Music rooms can be kept at a perfect 70 degrees Fahrenheit to best store sensitive instruments. Bedroom temperatures can be increased to accommodate those who are easily chilled without infringing on the comfort of the rest of the household.

3. Smart Refrigerators

Refrigerators used to only be for keeping food items cold; now, they can do so much more. Beyond preserving leftover meals, smart refrigerators have screens that can be used to leave notes, display reminders, look up recipes, play music, stream television, and more. Plus, they have internal cameras that can be used to check their contents when a homeowner forgets to bring a grocery list to the store. Smart refrigerators can also alert homeowners to low ice levels, water filtration issues, and doors that are accidentally left open.

Who knew that refrigerators would one day be able to communicate with humans in ways that could enhance their owners’ culinary skills? New technologies built specifically for everyday households are constantly cropping up on the home tech market. Another great invention may be waiting just around the corner.