Since the beginning of modern civilization, people have been predicting the future. Future predictions can be exciting and hopeful to scary and daunting. No matter the prediction, the future always captures the imagination. High-end AV technology is no different. In fact, technology in the AV industry changes so rapidly that what was once considered the future, becomes reality, seemingly overnight. This post isn’t about AV industry precognition’s that became true. It’s about those that were 100% false.
1. DIY App Based Home Automation Rules
Many retailers and tech companies have created so-called DIY home automation products, promising to save the consumer money and make home technology easier than ever. When these products first hit the market, many industry insiders predicted they would make home automation more simple and threaten the need for a professional installer. While some products, like Sonos, may be perfect for a simple multi-room audio solution, most products cause a nightmare for set-up. When it comes to integrating multiple automated devices into one control system, a professional AV system designer and installer is still required to offer the best solutions, service and know-how.
2. Home CCTV Will Never Catch On
Not that long ago, CCTV was mostly a commercial application, and rarely used for residential projects. Many people predicted that CCTV would never become a main stream solution for residential use. However, with the advent of inexpensive touchscreen controls and wireless IP cameras, many homeowners are requesting CCTV to be installed as part of their whole-home control solution.
3. Projectors Are Dead
Bigger. Sleeker. Lighter. Those are the words echoed at every Consumer Electronic Show for the past 15 years when describing front-end projection displays. Many people predicted that projectors were going the way of the typewriter due to the lower costs and functionality of LED and LCD displays. The truth is projectors are still used 99% of the time when installing a media room or home theater. They offer a larger viewer radius and are more compact than any display.
4. 3D TV Is The Future
The world seems to go bonkers every time there is a mega 3D movie blockbuster that hits theaters. Most recently, the movie Avatar created a 3D TV buzz that made many think 3D TV was the future of home entertainment. The fact is 3D has remained a novelty item that people like, but it is rarely used on an everyday basis in the home.
Advancing Forward
As home technology continues to pave the way for more predictions, only time will tell what will actually happen. For questions or consultations regrading a home automation project, feel free to contact one of our system designers from the button below.
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