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"What makes my phone SMART?"

These days a "smart" device is anything that is operated using a microchip. This microchip can be activated by voice commands via Bluetooth or wi-fi devices. Which, summed up means I am able to communicate commands verbally or using a remote controller to anything with this microchip.

So, now when I look around, I have a "smart" phone, "smart" TV, "smart" radio, and even a "smart" wristwatch. Do we need all these smart tools? No, but they can make life easier, safer, and enjoyable. Let me explain why I’ve come to that conclusion.

Amazon echo dotEASIER – Amazon’s Alexa device can respond to verbal commands. I store my shopping list on my phone by using the Alexa app. As I need to purchase a new item, I ask Alexa to add it to my shopping list. The item is added to my smart phone in the Alexa app. The Amazon device can also make phone calls, play radio station music, answer trivia questions, read an audio book, and so much more.

The “smart TV” makes locating movies and television shows at my command. It also uses a microchip to connect to the internet. I am able to watch cinema movies, old television series, and some foreign channels. My cable equipment is no longer needed. The wi-fi connects me to the internet where all this information is stored.

SAFER – “Smart” cars with safety belt reminders, accident alerts, and GPS-mapping controls. The "smart" doorbell (RING) that will allow my phone to show me who is at my front door from anywhere using my “smart” phone.

Fall Detection Pendant with GPS and Wi-FiMedical alert necklaces that can detect a person’s fall and alert emergency staff or family. Smart medical equipment that can monitor my health condition and send the information directly to the doctor or medical caregiver.

ACCURATE - "Smart" Body Composition Monitoring device (i.e. weight scale) can track more than just my weight but gives me statistics that include my body mass index (BMI), percentage of total body water, percentage of muscle mass, and even body fat and it sends all this information to my “smart” phone. I am able to share this information with my doctor or emergency medical staff.

Too many people have been hospitalized because of dehydration. Having the ability to monitor my percentage of water in my body will warn me when I need to increase my intake of water. This data is tracked and summarized by week, month, quarter or year. A Fitbit is a “smart” wrist watch that monitors my body’s vitals and also stores this information on my “smart” phone. The Fitbit also helps me monitor my sleep, exercise, calories, and heart rate. All information collected by my Fitbit is stored on my smartphone too. I just take my phone with me to my doctor’s appointment and we can review together.

I do believe that smart devices are extending lives and helping people to be more knowledgeable about their physical condition. The ability to monitor my vitals and actively participate in staying healthy is a valuable gift and worth reducing doctor or hospital visits. STAY AWARE!!
About The Author:

Auntie GadgetLiz Moncrief Chaney, known as "Auntie Gadget", loves buying and trying new technology gadgets on the market. A senior herself living in the Metro Detroit, Michigan area is writing a series of articles that she hopes will be informative for the technologically timid. She also conducts workshops on “Understanding Your Smart Phone”. She has been providing technology training for over 20 years. She is an experienced software trainer for professionals, clerical workers, seniors, and children. Formerly a college adjunct professor teaching Technology Management courses.