In today’s always online society it’s probably not too much of a stretch to say that we’re a little obsessed with our electronic gadgets. In fact most of us probably take these devices for granted as they’ve now become an integral part of our daily life and our home.

Here are seven essential devices that make our lives easier as well as keeping us entertained.

The personal computer

With so much of the world’s population now online the personal computer has become a ‘must have’ item in the home. If we’re not using this device to work on we’re surfing the internet, undertaking a little (or a lot) of online shopping, streaming films and video-chatting to friends around the world. The decreasing tablet and laptop prices means that most family homes usually have more than one of these devices and getting online has now become an almost global obsession.

The smart TV

The smart TV has become extremely popular thanks to the ability to connect to the internet and watch films and shows whenever we want. Downloadable apps allow viewers to use their TV in much the same way as the internet, which means playing games, video-chatting and even streaming movies in glorious high definition.

The smart phone

So many people own a smartphone now and there’s no doubt that most of them would be lost without one. The smartphone is essentially a mini-computer on which we can browse online, watch movies, listen to music and of course talk (via voice or video) to friends around the world.

The cordless phone

Coming in a close second to the smartphone are wireless home phones. Cordless phones have hugely decreased in price since they were introduced and now include multiple handsets as part of the low purchase price. These long-life battery-charged phones give you the freedom to talk on the move around the home, relaxing in the tub or sitting in your garden.

Games consoles

Some people are highly addicted to their video games but these consoles can do a lot more than just ‘shoot ‘em up’. The ability to get online means you can stream HD movies as well as interact with other gamers from around the world. You can also play Blu Ray DVDs, watch TV shows and store films, music and photographs on the hard disk drive.

The cordless vacuum cleaner

Cleaning the home is still a chore but it’s a lot easier with today’s cordless, infrared vacuum cleaners. You don’t even have to push leave your seat as the intelligent navigation system adapts and moves around your home environment while acoustic sensors pick up the smallest of dust particles.

The intelligent fridge

Smart fridges feature WiFi and an eight inch LCD touchscreen from which you can browse the web and make phone calls. These new fridges can even broadcast TV shows by sharing the signal with an internet connected television, and they’re also pretty good at keeping food chilled too.

Technology is advancing at a rapid rate and the next big electronic innovation will no doubt be along soon. There are even bluetooth hearing aids available now. One thing’s for sure — if the device makes our lives easier, there will be a demand for it.