In our youths many of us imagined the 2000s with everything from flying cars and self-tying shoes to robotic lawnmowers and machines that could control the weather.But we're well into 2012 now,and none of these things have materialised yet.
And while we aren't wandering around in space-age metallic suits and flying to work with jetpacks attached to our backs,the future has arrived.It's just a bit different than anyone planned.
Tablet computers,Wi-Fi and smart phones allow us to access a huge amount of information from practically anywhere,while robotic vacuum cleaners,electric cars and incredibly energy efficient lighting-in the form of LED bulbs are all becoming more popular.
Recently,the Daily Telegraphs's consumer technology editor Matt Warman decided to imagine the house of the future,giving us an idea of what the home would be like in 2020.And with only seven and a bit years to go,there's a lot to look forward to.
"Key to much of our future lifestyle will be the use of resources.Imagining the home of the future is not simply about infusing more glamour into the places we live today,"he explained,adding that small things like using LED bathroom lights will be a big part of our future homes.
Other futuristic bathroom technology will include water-saving devices like smart water meters and digital controls with personalised shower settings for each family member.
Meanwhile,the kitchen will be filled with new,advanced devices that are also manufactured to be durable.Matt reckons that smart refrigerators will communicate with other devices,letting you know what's inside and even providing ideas for meals based on their contents.
And it's likely that everything in the living room could be controlled with a tablet or mobile phone-from the television channel and thermostat to the downlights and blinds.Indeed,some modern homes already display the early versions of this sort of technology.
With just a touch of a button,you can turn on the television,close the blinds,dim the lights and turn up the temperature slightly,creating the perfect atmosphere for a relaxing evening on the sofa.
