Industry / Tech Trends Archives -

Is Cutting the Cord Right for You?

“Cutting the cord” is a euphemism for getting rid of cable or satellite TV service and replacing it with streaming TV services. It’s an appealing option, considering the expense of cable/satellite TV services. With all the available streaming services being offered, why not, right? But, the decision to cut the cord can be more complicated…

TV Sound, Soundbars and Speakers for TVs. How to Improve Your Audio Experience

How does your TV sound? Do you use subtitles? A recent survey to find out why Americans using subtitles is a growing trend found that 50% of us watch content with subtitles most of the time. And, an internal Roku study in 2022 revealed that 58% of their subscribers use subtitles; 36% of which switch…

High Tech Meets High Design

This stunning penthouse in Chicago is proof that technology can be incorporated into your space without interfering with beautiful interior design. In the Bar area, guests are treated to exquisite views of the city while surrounded with warm wood paneling. Hidden inside one of these panels is a 65” television. When the TV turns on,…

Tech Upgrades – 3 Quick & Easy Upgrades to do Now

Think all technology updates are involved and complicated? Think again. Here are our top three picks for tech upgrades that are quick and easy: Tech Upgrade #1: LED Lighting Updating your existing recessed, linear and/or outdoor lighting may be easier than you think. Many homeowners are moving to LED because these are more energy efficient, easier…

Hiding Technology in Your Home

Technology is an essential part of our daily lives. But let’s face it, electronics aren’t always aesthetically pleasing and can quickly add clutter to a sleek and sophisticated design. Whether you’re renovating an existing space or building a new one, Mills helps clients and their design teams lessen the visual impact of technology components –…

What is Video Distribution?

We briefly touched on video distribution in our Control System vs Multiple Apps post a couple of weeks ago. Distributed video allows a single video source, like a cable box, AppleTV, or a Blu-ray player, to be shared between multiple TVs that are connected to a video switch. Video Distribution – Some Advantages This provides…

Should My Smart Home Use a Control System or Multiple Apps?

“Can we use apps to control our system, or do we need an integrated control system?” This question is one we are often asked by our clients and building partners. There’s no right or wrong answer. It really depends upon the goals of the homeowners, as well as the size and complexity of your overall…

Lighting Control – Top Reasons Why Every Home Should It

Many home technologies boost convenience and safety. Others reduce energy costs. And some improve aesthetics. Lighting control is one of the few that can do all of this and more. Many homeowners who are building luxury homes purchase lighting control systems simply because they feel it is an expected feature for resale. What they fail…

Can Technology Make Your Life Greener?

Making Life Greener with Technology What comes to mind when you think about technology that helps us to conserve resources and live greener lives? Energy efficient appliances (smart thermostats, energy and water efficient dishwashers and the like) is usually one of the first things we think of, right? But there are many ways technology in…

Home Tech Trends to Watch in 2022

Let’s look at a few home tech trends that we anticipate will make big leaps this year. Technology plays a big role in our daily lives. It evolves rapidly, making our lives more convenient by making our smart homes smarter and more efficient. The number of connected devices in an average home is on the…