Resideo Makes Updates
Resideo Technologies announced new capabilities for its pro security and home automation solutions last week during ISC West. Named the ProSeries Platform, the new offering represents Resideo’s largest range of supported home solutions in one modular, scalable system. Updates include dealer branding, customized voice interactions, and increased network flexibility. Resideo also announced Google Assistant integration with ProSeries and that its Brilliant Smart Home System will now be compatible with other popular security platforms including Lynx and Vista.
The NPD Take:
- Though retail sales continue to soar, many customers choose professional installers for their expertise and quality of work. According to Connected Intelligence’s Ownership and Usage Study from December 2021, 41% of smart home device owners have hired an installation professional to connect products they own
- As awareness of the home automation category expands to new demographics (especially among non-technology enthusiasts) the skill of professional installers and a growing assortment of products and prices will pose a larger challenge to retail sales.
Alexa Now Keeps Up on Deals
Amazon’s Alexa has launched a new feature that will notify Prime customers up to 24 hours early about specific discounts. The voice assistant will alert Prime members when eligible products on their wish list or in the shopping cart are on sale. Customers can then ask Alexa to order the items when the deal is live- or send a reminder. US customers who own fourth generation Echo speakers or newer can access the feature.
The NPD Take:
- Consumers are using their digital assistants for shopping activities, however, understandably it remains a lower incidence task than checking the weather or playing the news. Eliminating friction from the shopping process (as well as adding incentives to shop) should drive more users shop using their digital assistants.
- The key is to promote the activity while also keeping intrusions and interruptions from the assistant to a minimum. Balancing privacy with access will be important in promoting more commerce related habits using digital assistants.