These trends will be addressed at the firm's 30th annual Connections Conference, next month in Santa Clara, where industry leaders from companies including Amazon Web Services, Alarm.com, ADT, Samsung Smartthings, Schneider Electric, Silicon Labs, Calix, Eero, Ayla Networks, Vivint, LG, Chamberlain, Comcast, Plume and more will examine the evolution of smart home platforms and connected device ecosystems.

Executives from across the ecosystem will address how mobile credentials, AI, and interoperability are shaping the next phase of the connected home market. The research firm shows continued evolution in the smart home market as companies expand beyond standalone devices to integrated platforms that combine hardware, software, and services.

“Access control is becoming a key entry point for broader smart home experiences,” said Daniel Holcomb, Senior Analyst, Parks Associates. “Mobile credentials, AI, and interoperability are reshaping how consumers interact with devices and services in the home.”

Recent trends highlighted in the research include:

• Mobile credentials expand: 41% of US internet households use Samsung Galaxy smartphones, supporting growth in wallet-based access using NFC and ultra-wideband technologies.
• AI adoption increases: 51% of security dealers use AI tools for marketing and engagement, while 39% highlight AI features in residential security messaging to customers, up from 15% in 2023.
• Wearables gain traction: 48% of US internet households own a wearable device, with emerging categories such as smart rings showing increased interest.
• Platform integration grows: Companies are developing unified platforms that integrate security, energy, and automation into a single user experience.
• Interoperability advances: Standards such as Matter and Aliro are expanding compatibility across devices and ecosystems.

The research, available for purchase, also highlights ongoing activity from major industry players, including new smart home assistants, digital key solutions, energy platform integrations, and expanded product offerings.