SquareRooms Issue 181 Mid-Year 2020

1 9 Remote cooling An ingenious companion to the traditional air-conditioner, smart thermostats enable you to program cooling times and track electricity consumption, helping you figure out useful ways to save money for utility bills. Many of them even make adjustments based on your usage habits, such as automatically switching on before you even reach the house. And with Singapore’s hot and humid climate, stepping into a cold room after a hot day outdoors is like a comforting hug. Better binging If you’re a Netflix junkie, then you’ll love how smart TVs let you binge-watch your favourite shows without the disconnection inconveniences that usually come with screencasting. Newer models of smart tellies are pre-installed with entertainment streaming apps, so you can sit back on your couch and instantly fire up the TV with a press of a button. Some devices even have voice control features, which are particularly handy for individuals with disabilities or the elderly. PHOTO BY BENCE BOROS ON UNSPLASH On and off Ever gone to bed and then start to wonder if you remembered to switch off the appliances in the kitchen? With a smart plug, you can shut down the microwave or electric stove without having to get up from the sack – just whip out your phone and use the app to turn them all off. You can also use it to automatically switch on and off devices and monitor your home’s energy consumption to help cut down on skyrocketing electricity bills. P H O T O B Y D A N L E F E B V R E O N U N S P L A S H SMART LIVING IMAGE COURTESY OF SAMSUNG