Let the User Decide! User Preferences Regarding Functions, Apps, and Interfaces of a Smart Home and a Service Robot

In an online survey, we studied user expectations and preferences for functions and apps in the context of a smart apartment. Furthermore, we explored which type of interface users would choose for an interaction with the smart apartment. Equally important, we investigated users’ acceptance of a service robot in the smart home. Results showed high levels of acceptance for both, the smart apartment and the robot, although the preferred interface for the apartment was context dependent. We discuss implications of the current survey and highlight key aspects to be taken into consideration when developing innovation technology for the home context.