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We didn't ask for 'smart' cars – so why are we getting them?

2 months ago
  • #smart appliances
  • #smart cars
  • #technology debate
  • Smart appliances, including smart fridges, are not widely owned in the UK, with only about 3 in 100 people having one.
  • Smart fridges offer features like music playback, weather updates, and AI-driven shopping lists, but many find these unnecessary.
  • Adoption rates for other smart home devices vary, with smart energy meters being the most common at nearly 40%.
  • Smart security devices like alarms and cameras are also popular, though their necessity is sometimes questioned.
  • Most new cars are now data-connected, offering features like over-the-air updates and subscription services, which some buyers may not want.
  • Many new cars come with excessive technology, such as multiple screens and complex menus, which can be distracting and inconvenient.
  • There is a debate about the preference for physical buttons over touchscreens in cars, especially for essential functions like HVAC and drive modes.
  • Some manufacturers, like Porsche, strike a balance by offering physical controls alongside screens for less critical functions.