It seems that smart technology knows no boundaries. Devices integrate into almost every aspect of our lives. We can take our entertainment with us, automatically sync up songs, and order food from inside our cars on the way home. While these are just a few examples of such technology, the newest “smart” trend is truly making a splash.
American Standard Gets Smart
American Standard recently released their new smart toilet design. It features technology that they hope the American public will embrace. The AT200 smart toilet is the newest in luxury brand kitchen and bath products by American Standard.
Features include hands-free flushing, automated lid opening and closing, seat heating, and bidet with integrated air dryer. SmartTech Builder reports, “When the user departs, the lid closes and the toilet automatically flushes. The AT200 incorporates a soft night light in the bowl and in the area around the feet, conveniently illuminating the base of the toilet and the inside of the bowl.” It also syncs to your smart phone or Bluetooth to enable customization of settings as well as music you can play through speakers near the toilet. In addition, it promises maximum efficiency in water usage.
Taking a Cue from the Japanese
Smart toilets have already invaded 75% of Japanese homes, but Americans have been reluctant to embrace the bidet lifestyle. Yoshiaki Fujimori, Chief Executive of Lixil, top manufacturer in Japan believes that once American consumers try such toilets, they won’t go back. In an interview with the Wall Street Journal, Mr. Fujimori said, “This improves your standard of living, it doesn’t hurt you. People like comfort, they like ease, they like automatic. And people like clean.” The AT200 Smart Toilet is all of those things.
Other Companies Following Suit
Listed at $4,200 the AT200 is one of the most innovative toilets to hit the market. But, other companies are joining the trend, betting that popularity of smart toilets will soon increase. Perhaps Americans will see that this type of technology is not just for the rich and famous, but will welcome luxury and comfort. Smart toilets are certainly closer to being in the average American home and sure to make a much larger splash in the future of toilet technology.
PHOTO: Liuluenhon / CC 3.0