CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) - Count the number of wireless devices you have in your home right now. That number is expected to grow by leaps and bounds by 2014.
Researchers anticipate by then there will be 1.5 billion wirelessly connected devices and we're talking about much more than cell phones.
The newest generation of wireless technology does so much more than send emails and allow you to connect to the web from anywhere.
"We are talking about pajamas that are wired and will send you notes when your baby wakes up or isn't feeling well. There are slippers that let you know if someone falls down," said Josh Gelinas, a spokesperson for AT & T.
AT and T is one company connecting consumers, wirelessly, with the innovative products being made by many companies.
"Practically everything will be connected in the future. Actually, you will look at something and be shocked if it isn't connected," said Laurent Therivel, a Vice President and General Manager for AT & T in the Carolinas.
Ideal Life is one company using the wireless bridge to access those who use it's products.
Sheryolyn Layel says before she got the Ideal Life equipment in her home, she went to the doctor nearly every day.
Now she checks her oxygen levels, blood pressure and weight at home. Her results are then sent wirelessly to a secure website nurse Betty Alexander can access.
If Sheryolyn's readings are at all off, Betty picks up the phone to check on her.
"Some call me their conscience, some call me their reminder or even their security," Alexander said.
Terri Ross is a Care Management Director with Community Health Partners in Gaston and Lincoln counties.
"We have seen a significant difference while they're on the monitors," she added.
In some cases 50% fewer ER and visits to the doctor which significantly cuts medical costs and adds piece of mind for the patients.
The gear from Ideal Life is not the only potentially life saving technology on the market.
One company makes a prescription pill bottle with a wireless receiver in the lid. If no one pops the top to take the medicine when they're supposed to, a wireless alert is sent to a family member or friend.
Wireless technology can also help us monitor our kids. One particular GPS device alerts when the person carrying it leaves a predetermined boundary.
Wireless makes life more convenient. A pair of wireless ear buds can pick up the playlist on your phone. They can also integrate with the map and reminder functions and perhaps when you run by the grocery store you get a reminder in your phone to get a loaf of bread. You would hear that reminder through the ear phones.
"It is an exciting time to be in wireless and an exciting time to be a consumer of wireless. You are eventually going to be the hub to control this info and have access to it any time you want," Therivel said.
There's a catch, however, to all of us being able to use these devices seamlessly and at any time we want.
You can hear the three things the wireless industry must have to go forward by watching the web extra video on this page.
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