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Home of the future

In association with BT

Over the next couple of decades, technological innovation is unlikely to mean we'll all be living on the moon, but there are sure to be some changes to the ways our homes look. It's predicted that while our homes will - on the outside at least - look pretty much as they do now, the levels of technology within will completely change our lives.

Of course, predicting the future is an impossible task, but big companies such as Microsoft, Phillips and BT have invested large sums in research and have come to relatively similar conclusions. And the two main areas that most experts believe will see the biggest changes are in energy and green living, and entertainment.

We're all aware now that the planet only has limited resources, and with an increasing global population it's vital that each of us uses as few of those resources as possible. Electrical equipment will be more energy-efficient, and homes will have monitors installed that tell householders how much they are using. There may be solar panels on your roof, and your toilet and shower will receive recycled waste water. Appliances will be linked - for example your dishwasher will use power generated by the washing machine's spin cycle.

Your home will also be more user-friendly. Your fridge will be able to warn you to use food before it goes off, and will automatically add any items you use up to your next home shopping service. It can also suggest recipes, based on what ingredients you have. In the bedroom, your wardrobe will be linked to your calendar and the weather forecast, so it can tell you if you need to dress smartly, or put on warmer clothes.

Then there's entertainment. Television is already changing, with on-screen programme guides, digital TV on demand and hard drive recording already on offer, the next stage is tailored content to suit not only your tastes but also your availability, time and even mood. Because there will be so many programmes to choose from, the system will learn about your likes and recommend new choices to you. It's likely there will be a television in more rooms in the home, but each one will be fed by a central computer, or wireless hub through the broadband internet connection and will provide the on-demand services and also set any restrictions, such as parental controls. Gaming is also going to change. With a fast broadband speed you can already hook your Playstation or other console to the internet and compete against players miles away. But the quality of the gaming will improve, and so will the type. For example, immersive online gaming with hi-res 3d graphics is now feasible for homes with fast broadband, and next generation connections will allow for even swifter downloads, better graphics, and increased interactivity. While computer games will continue to evolve, you'll also be able to play other types of game - for example, you will be able to race your Scalextric car against opponents at the other end of the country.

Of course, other developments may supersede what's currently predicted, but one thing is for sure: our homes are going to be far more 'joined up' than ever before.

Broadband

All BT Total Broadband options give you reliable broadband and a BT Home Hub as standard that has an unbeatable wireless connection compared to other UK broadband providers. Up to 20Mb broadband available now in selected areas.