We are all pretty used to the concept of smart assistants now. If you don't own one yourself you probably know someone who does. We've become accustomed to saying things like 'Okay Google, what's the weather like tomorrow?' and 'Alexa, what happened on Love Island last night?'. But just how much have these virtual assistants become part of our homes?
A new survey conducted by the Real Homes Show has revealed that smart assistants are in fact the most popular home tech gadget, with Amazon Alexa and Google Home being used by over half (57 per cent) of those surveyed.
- Amazon Prime Day is coming, but these smart home deals are worth snagging now
- Get £100 off a Google Home Speaker with this pre-Prime Day deal
- Don't wait for Prime Day: Google Home Mini is now £24 at John Lewis
According to the 1,042 participants of the survey, the most popular smart assistant was by far the Amazon Alexa (53 per cent). The next most popular choice was Google Home Assistant, with 22 per cent saying this was their preferred smart assistant (check out our reviews on both). And, we've reviewed Apple's Siri, too.
The factors that affected buyers the most when choosing which smart assistant to go for was easy connection and ease of use, and the most popular type of smart device bought was a smart audio gadget, with 37 per cent of smart devices bought being some kind of speaker.
As well as smart assistants, the homeowners surveyed also noted they are considering prioritising their investment in smart audio, smart lighting, smart security, smart heating and smart plugs with in the next year. Well over 50 per cent also stated that they regularly control their home tech remotely from their smart phones and tablets, and they do tend to use their smart gadgets more than once a day.
Feeling tempted to invest in your own smart assistant? Well with Amazon Prime Day coming up (starts next Monday 15th July), there will be some amazing deals go on, so now is going to be the best time to get your hands on one. Not sure what device to go for ? Check out these reviews and advice:
- Smart assistants: a beginner's guide
- The smart plug: a beginner's guide
- Smart meters: everything you need to know
- Amazon Echo Show (2nd Generation) review
Jason Orme, presenter on the Real Homes Show, sponsored by Checkatrade, says, 'We’re quite a smart home tech nation, according to the Real Homes audience survey. It’s gratifying to know that in this fast-paced world, the Real Homes Show is attracting a loyal audience who are keen to hear more about the latest products and to educate themselves on ways in which they can enhance their homes, make the most of their space and enjoy their surroundings even more by introducing small improvements that won’t cost the earth and are user-friendly. We’re really excited about the second series which will bring more hints, tips and advice to our home loving, tech savvy viewers.'
Join our newsletter
Get the best home decor ideas, DIY advice and project inspiration straight to your inbox!
For a load more content on smart home tech then make sure you check out our new section, The Hub. You'll find plenty of advice and in depth reviews over there.
Plus, make sure you check out the latest episode of the Real Homes Show, which is back for a second season tomorrow and has a new smart home tech section. Each episode, tech expert Verity Burns will give viewers a beginner's guide to creating a more connected home, focusing on everything from robot vacuum cleaners to smart fridges.
Hebe joined the Real Homes team in early 2018 as Staff Writer before moving to the Livingetc team in 2021 where she took on a role as Digital Editor. She loves boho and 70's style and is a big fan of Instagram as a source of interiors inspiration. When she isn't writing about interiors, she is renovating her own spaces – be it wallpapering a hallway, painting kitchen cupboards or converting a van.
-
Best TVs: upgrade your lounge with the best OLED, QLED, 4K and Smart TVs
The best TVs to invest in for your next movie night, binge-watch, or the big game
By Caroline Preece Published
-
BenQ GS50 Wireless Projector review: perfect for your next family trip
With full HD resolution, it's even splash and drop-proof
By Caroline Preece Last updated
-
Dyson Pure Hot + Cool HP04 review
The ultimate buy for your home, all year round
By Annie Collyer Last updated
-
Canon SELPHY Square QX10 review: a scrapbookers dream?
We test the Canon SELPHY Square QX10 to see how it can help immortalise those most treasured memories
By Caroline Preece Published
-
BenQ GV30 Projector review: a fun, feature-packed, portable projector
We tested the BenQ GV30 Portable Projector to see whether it could really make our outdoor cinema dreams come true
By Chris Haslam Published
-
Keep your cool this summer with these portable air conditioners — highly rated by shoppers
Forget hot girl summer
By Joseph Bobowicz Last updated
-
Canon SELPHY CP1300 review: perfect for picture printing
We take a look at the playful Canon SELPHY CP1300 photo printer, which aims to reintroduce physical prints into our lives
By Anete Lusina Last updated
-
Best smart speaker: our pick of the best smart assistant speakers and displays
The best smart speakers from Amazon, Google, Sonos, and more to upgrade your home with a little helper for the family
By Caroline Preece Last updated