As the demand for better home communication systems rises, intercoms have evolved from essential audio devices to advanced smart home hubs, revolutionising how families stay connected. Across Australia, these innovations facilitate communication, security, and connection needs.
This blog explores advancements in intercom system technology for homes, the benefits of using intercoms, and the future potential for home intercom system installations.
- The Evolution of Intercom Systems
Wireless intercom systems used for two-way communication in the construction and between the floors of constructed buildings have also been enhanced by the available technology.
Today, they are parts of smart home systems that provide security, convenience, and compatibility different from voice-activated functionality.
Some of the critical advancements in intercom technology include:
- Video Intercom Systems: This enhancement differs from traditional intercoms, which only allow users to communicate with visitors while viewing them on a specific screen. This feature also enhances security by enabling the identification of individuals before granting them access to the apartments.
- Mobile and Remote Connectivity: Modern intercom systems integrate with mobile apps, allowing homeowners to communicate with household members or visitors while away.
- Wireless Options: Intercom systems have been made available through wireless technology, making installation easy. For example, since most wired systems require cumbersome cables, adding an intercom to existing buildings is less problematic, particularly when considering wireless solutions.
- Integration with Smart Home Devices: Intercoms now integrate seamlessly into smart home networks, syncing with automation systems and voice assistants like Google Home, Amazon Alexa, and Apple’s Siri. This allows homeowners to control their intercoms using voice commands, streamlining communication at home.
- Melbourne Leading the Charge in Intercom Adoption
Melbourne leads in adopting modern intercom systems, driven by its diverse housing market of inner-city apartments and suburban homes. More than ever, homeowners opt for intercoms for the simple user-friendliness and more decadent security options offered by modern models in response to the need for efficient communication equipment in different environments.
- Real-Time Video Monitoring: In places with high traffic, such as central business districts, video intercoms make it easier for residents to monitor their front doors or gates.
- Two-Way Audio with Noise Reduction: Intercoms contain functional two-way audio communication with noise reduction functions. This ensures clear communication for homeowners, even in busy households or outdoor settings.
- Night Vision Capabilities: Most of the current models of intercoms come with night vision, which allows the homeowner to see and speak with someone at the door at night and, therefore, secure the property in areas with few artificial lights at night.
- Multi-Unit Support for Apartments: It is common for security intercom systems to be incorporated within apartment buildings. These systems enable the residents to speak to visitors, receive goods and packages, unlock gates, and perform other collective tasks without physically relying on the vetted tenants.
- Regional Expansion: Intercom Solutions Beyond Melbourne
However, Melbourne leads in intercom usage while adoption is gradually increasing in other regions of Australia. Homeowners in Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, and even rural and coastal areas recognise the importance of a modern intercom system. The reasons for this are manifold:
- Safety and Security: In rural areas with isolated homes, intercom systems enhance safety by monitoring long driveways and ensuring elderly family members are safe and accessible, providing peace of mind.
- Convenience in Large Properties: Intercom systems streamline communication in households with multiple buildings or large outdoor spaces, allowing parents to call children from the backyard or homeowners to connect easily across the property.
- Remote Communication for Businesses and Farms: In a country or farm, intercoms help the worker to communicate from one working area to another, for instance, from a main house to a barn or a work shed; thus, the properties used for work and residence benefit.
- Types of Intercom Systems: Which One Is Right for You?
The current intercom era must enable property owners to select the most suitable device. Here’s an overview of some of Australia’s most popular types of intercom systems.
- Wired Intercom Systems: These systems are incorporated into the home’s wiring and thus offer communication that is not easily disrupted. Ideally suited to new build or major renovation work is being carried out, and wiring can be incorporated.
- Wireless Intercom Systems: Wired systems are more rigidly installed and used than wireless systems. They’re ideal for use in homes newly constructed or installed with little wiring. Wireless systems can perform based on Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or other wireless networks.
- Video Intercom Systems: As described before, video intercoms enable the caller and the called parties to see each other and physically identify the visitor. They are commonly used in homes and apartment buildings for security purposes.
- Mobile App-Based Intercoms: These devices can be connected to Wi-Fi and managed via a mobile app. They provide remote access, permitting owners to display and manage their intercom devices anywhere.
- Multi-Unit or Building-Wide Systems: Often found in apartment complexes or gated communities, these systems allow communication between individual units and a central entrance or lobby area. Residents can communicate with visitors and grant access remotely.
- The Benefits of Installing a Modern Intercom System
There are numerous benefits to installing a modern intercom system, whether you live in a bustling urban area like Melbourne or a quieter regional part of Australia. Some of the most compelling advantages include:
- Enhanced Security: Video and audio intercoms add a security layer by enabling homeowners to verify visitors before granting access. This is crucial for families with children or elderly members who may be more vulnerable.
- Increased Convenience: Intercoms are helpful when there are different floors or individual sections of a house, for example, assistance with laundry, groceries, or kitchen utensils in large families, different apartments in compound houses, or other properties.
- Remote Access: Homeowners can continuously monitor and control the intercom systems with their mobile. This is especially handy for people who often have to move around or are stuck elsewhere for prolonged intervals.
- Future-Proofing: With homes adopting the latest technology, modern intercom systems are functional in home automation and prepare properties for future technological changes.
In a Nutshell
The advantages of home intercom system installations in Melbourne are encouraging, mainly due to the incorporation of artificial intelligence and machine learning within the framework of smart homes. Facial and voice recognition could enhance home convenience, security, and sustainability.
Therefore, homeowners in Melbourne and nearby areas should seize the opportunity to adopt new and effective home intercom systems.