By Denise Woods
The Daily Record Newswire
RICHMOND - Your smartphone is quite the clutter buster. The number of tools and devices it packs into one processor that slides neatly into your hip pocket is pretty astounding when you think about it. You have a compass, a navigator, a phone book and a camera to equip you for any adventure.
In the not-so-distant future, your smartphone will pack even more essentials. Here is what you can look forward to leaving behind, thanks to better smartphone technology.
Your wallet
Two in five Americans would leave their wallet at home if they used a digital wallet, according to a recent Chase survey. Later this year, this will be easier than ever, because Chase customers will be able to use their smartphone to take out cash at the ATM, even if you left your card at home.
Your checkbook
For a long time, the checkbook has bordered on becoming an endangered species, and is now pretty much limited to the realm of paying bills. Even that is fading as more and more customers continue to opt in to mobile banking technologies than ever before. In 2016, 62 percent of mobile bank customers are using their bank's app for paying bills, a dramatic increase from 42 percent in 2015, according to the Chase survey.
Your phone charger
Wireless phone charging stations are already a reality, but what about energy efficient ways to power your phone? Technology is changing this industry for the good - and we could even see a built-in motion charger in our future. Whether you're heading out for a run or a day on the town, the movement of the phone would add some juice to your battery, extending its life. Or consider solar-charging capabilities, and one day, you won't even need to keep a spare charger at the office.
Your keys
Smartphone technology has already begun to change the way we lock and unlock our lives. Wouldn't it be nice if you could just change a PIN code when your roommate moves out, rather than going through the expense of changing locks? Or what about starting up your car's heater or air conditioner from your desk 15 minutes before you leave work? Expect more with the evolution of keys. Mobile phone activated keyless entries are already a reality at apartment buildings, as well as in the latest car models.
Your remote control
The television remote doesn't seem like it's an industry ripe for innovation but already, some newer smartphone models come with an IR blaster, a technology that gives your mobile device TV channel-changing functionalities. As more entertainment devices come with smart features, you will one day wield control of your home's entire media environment in the palm of your hand, as you dim the lights, flip on the ceiling fan and remotely monitor your dinner as it cooks. Now that's a universal remote.
Published: Mon, Nov 14, 2016
