Since its introduction, digital technology has been transforming the way people interact with their environment. Increasingly, the physical and the digital world are merging, and 20th-century dreams are starting to be realized. No longer are tools of convenience an amusing concept found only in Isaac Asimov books and Hanna-Barbera cartoons. With shocking rapidity, “the future” is poking its head into today.
There are many technologies on the market today that are improving the quality of people’s lives in ways large and small. Here are five different technologies you can incorporate into your day-to-day right now.
1. Portable Chargers
Running out of juice usually happens at the worst time. And for years, there wasn’t much you could do besides scour your surroundings for an available outlet. Thankfully, battery technology has come a long way, and now there are portable chargers you can carry with you. They’re lightweight, long-lasting, and are themselves rechargeable. So pick one up today, and you’ll never miss an important phone call — or the best part of your favorite song — again.
2. Heating and Cooling Systems With Wi-Fi
Having access to a reliable microclimate system is increasingly important as temperatures around the world continue to fluctuate. If you’re still using window unit air conditioners or an antiquated heating system, it’s time for an upgrade. Fortunately, you don’t need to invest in a massive central air system to do so.
Mini split systems offer unparalleled room-by-room microclimate control. They’re also far simpler to install than extensive vent-based systems and are often more energy-efficient than the alternatives to boot. Since they heat and cool individual areas, energy isn’t lost from hot or cool air traveling from room to room. Better still, you can use Wi-Fi-based controllers to change temperature settings remotely. Even if you can’t predict the weather outside, mini split systems let you choose the exact weather you want inside — whether you’re home or not.
3. High-Tech Pet Feeders
For the pet lovers out there, you know how hard it can be to leave your furry friend for extended periods of time. Or any time at all, for that matter. If this describes you, you’ll be happy to learn that pet feeders have come a long way in the last few years. No longer do they simply feed your pet on an automatic timer. Now they can feed your soul.
The latest pet feeders offer two-way voice and one-way video so you can talk to your pet while you’re gone. An app on your phone will let you see everything the feeder sees, day or night, thanks to night-vision capabilities. Best of all, you can offer pre-loaded treats for your feline or canine companion at the touch of a button. State-of-the-art pet feeders offer interactivity and closeness with your pet, even when you’re far away. So you’ll never be truly apart for long.
4. Tech-Enhanced Alarm Clocks
If you’re struggling with sleep and use your phone as an alarm clock, it’s time for an alternative. Your phone is essentially a black hole of sleep loss at your fingertips. First off, its blue light stimulates your mind into staying awake past bedtime. Then there’s the electromagnetic field your phone emits, which can irritate your nervous system, potentially damaging it over time. So instead of continuing to knee-cap your sleep schedule, get yourself a new alarm clock.
Alarm clocks themselves are nothing new, of course, but you’d be surprised how far they’ve advanced in recent years. Many of them also double as Bluetooth speakers and come with relaxing pre-loaded ambient sounds to help you drift into slumber. Some offer soft lighting that mimics the sunrise, helping you wake up naturally, even during the winter. With these sleep cycle–facilitating features, you won’t have to keep wondering why you’re awake at two in the morning.
5. Smart Wallets
Your grandfather’s wallet is, frankly, antiquated. Sure, it looks appealing and holds sentimental value, but it’s just not functional by current standards. Simply put, old-fashioned wallets weren’t designed with the needs of today in mind. Smart wallets, on the other hand, take efficiency, safety, and convenience to the next level.
Some modern billfolds have built-in, foldable mechanics that make storing and accessing various cards as simple as pressing a button. Many models are designed to block radio frequency identification (RFID) technology that can steal your sensitive information without your knowledge. And others have built-in tracking devices that will allow you to find your wallet with your phone if you lose it. And because they’re also designed with aesthetics in mind, you can still match your wallet to your personal style.
Upgrade Your Tech, Upgrade Your Life
You know how distracting many of today’s digital technologies can be. It can take some research to ensure your money is spent on useful capabilities rather than pointless bells and whistles. If you choose your tech wisely, though, you can truly increase the quality of your life. Investing in well-designed tech can smooth many of the wrinkles posed by daily life and increase your satisfaction in your daily experience.