NOTAS: | "In 2018, the smart home will continue to head toward the mass market as more innovative devices are launched, new business models are developed, and marketing efforts are increased. However, telcos, in particular, are still struggling with how best to capitalize on this growing market. In many cases, they will need to reevaluate their role in the smart home if they want to remain part of the sector. This report outlines the major changes and trends likely to take place in the smart home space in 2018. Although the smart home tech sector is growing quickly, a number of barriers prevent the smart home from attracting the mass-market consumer. Proving the everyday value of smart home technology remains a significant challenge. Ovum expects a significant increase in vendors' marketing efforts in 2018 and that retailers and service providers alike will focus heavily on the benefits and use cases of smart home solutions. Smart energy will become more important as environmental issues rise on the agendas of governments and individuals. Smart commerce will also continue to see some significant advancements in both technology solutions and business models. Telcos, however, will need to reevaluate their role in the smart home if they do not want to be pushed out of the picture by the large internet companies." |