The most time-saving tech inventions of this century, according to Brits, are air fryers, virtual banking and contactless payments. A survey of 2,000 adults found that instant messaging apps and online appointment booking were also seen as significant time-saving advancements.
Four out of ten people depend on self-checkouts at supermarkets to save time in their daily routine, while one in five believe voice-activated assistants are a useful tool for saving a few minutes here and there. Internet shopping, smart meters and autofill for online forms also made it into the top 10.
The study was commissioned by Smart Energy GB to emphasise the time-saving benefits of smart prepay meters, which allow users to top up online or over the phone instead of having to go to the shops.
Personal finance expert Lynn Beattie, who balances a busy life as a mother of three boys, said: « My absolute favourite time-saving invention is my air fryer. Not only does it save me half the time on cooking the jacket potatoes and chicken, but it saves on energy too.
« As a busy parent, anything that helps speed up mealtimes is a win it means less time standing over the hob and more time spending quality time together.
« Finding small ways to save time can make a real difference. My smart meter means I no longer have to remember to submit meter readings, which is just one less thing to worry about. »
The study also discovered that 81% of the 200 polled individuals who use a smart prepay meter believe it has helped them save time in their daily lives, as they can top up using an app and no longer need to manually check their meter.
On average, time-saving technology saves Brits around four hours per week, which translates to over 220 hours per year.
Nearly a third of respondents haven’t visited a bank branch in the past year, instead relying on technology, while 21% believe that smart technology helps them budget more effectively.
More than half of respondents have gained a few hours by using video calls instead of attending in-person meetings, and 35% appreciate technology speeding up their management of energy and utility bills.
Lynn Beattie, also known as Mrs Mummypenny, added: « As a parent, you quickly learn to appreciate anything that saves you a few minutes here and there.
« I’ve got smart plugs so I can use my phone to switch things on and off, including the kettle, and I always do the food shop online to avoid the supermarket dash.
« Using a smart prepay meter is another great trick it means one less thing for you to think about, and you can even top up from your phone when out and about. »
