The technology is there, and has been for a decade. Still, Wi-Fi's roll-out into our homes has been slow, at best, and continues to be confronted by various challenges.
For decades, the 'home of the future' has been touted as being 'just 'round the corner.' Wireless network technology has long been a selling point, with technology like tablets used as remotes, emails to open and close the garage door, and wireless security monitoring. Still, the technology, though readily available, has been slow to be placed in many homes. The New York Times' Kevin J. O'Brien reports on the lackluster implementation of wireless technology in the home.
"Experts say there are several reasons why the uncabled home, which became possible with the advent of Wi-Fi networks, has been slow in coming," reports O'Brien, "with consumer indifference, the cost of consuming wireless data, the global recession and competing technical standards among them."
The technology potential of such wireless networks is exceptional and, frankly, exciting. From wireless monitors that adjust household energy consumption to locks that send text messages to parents notifying when children arrive home, the potential benefits to the wireless-connected family are many.
FULL STORY: Home of the Future Still Years Away

Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.

Chicago’s Ghost Rails
Just beneath the surface of the modern city lie the remnants of its expansive early 20th-century streetcar system.

San Antonio and Austin are Fusing Into one Massive Megaregion
The region spanning the two central Texas cities is growing fast, posing challenges for local infrastructure and water supplies.

Since Zion's Shuttles Went Electric “The Smog is Gone”
Visitors to Zion National Park can enjoy the canyon via the nation’s first fully electric park shuttle system.

Trump Distributing DOT Safety Funds at 1/10 Rate of Biden
Funds for Safe Streets and other transportation safety and equity programs are being held up by administrative reviews and conflicts with the Trump administration’s priorities.

German Cities Subsidize Taxis for Women Amid Wave of Violence
Free or low-cost taxi rides can help women navigate cities more safely, but critics say the programs don't address the root causes of violence against women.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
planning NEXT
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie