Futuristic 'smart homes' soon to be a reality

SINGAPORE — Amid the Republic’s Smart Nation drive, a developer here has teamed up with technology giant Samsung to build future “smart homes” which recognise owners’ lifestyle patterns, turn on the lights and make coffee when they wake up for example.

Qingjian Realty (South Pacific) Group and Samsung Asia signed a memorandum of understanding today (Feb 25). The first project under the collaboration will be an executive condominium to be launched in Sembawang next year. However, given the current limits to technology, this project would serve as a first step, the companies said.

Separately, the collaboration will also benefit some owners under the developer’s portfolio. Those who expect to receive their Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) from this year can buy Samsung appliances at preferential rates. Details will be announced next month. The companies said they are also in discussion with the homeowners to better integrate household technology with personal smart devices. The companies noted that existing technology allows washing machines and vacuum cleaners to be operated remotely.

“This collaboration comes as a natural fit. Both Samsung and Qingjian are committed to the Smart Nation initiative and we are thrilled to start at the heart of any nation — with its people and their homes,” said Mr Andy Sim, General Manager, Enterprise Business for Samsung Asia. Mr Donald Ng, Head of Sales and Marketing for Qingjian Realty (South Pacific), added: “What seems futuristic in the past are now available today ... The technology may not be fully ready right now for such a seamless integration, but nothing is impossible with technology. We believe that the concerted efforts via the Smart Nation blueprint and the consumer electronics companies can make this a reality.”