In his bestselling books Sapiens and Homo Deus, the author Yuval Noah Harari portrays the evolution of man as growing more and more linked to technology. Whereas some humans have long relied on inventions such as eyeglasses and hearing aids, most of us now count on our smartphones to fulfill our essential, everyday needs. 

Within the past 48 hours, I used my phone to wake myself up, call family, buy clothes, listen to podcasts, pay bills, order food, book a car, watch shows, take videos — not to mention, accomplish most work tasks that sustain my livelihood. Although such services may at first seem like luxuries, they have suddenly become vital throughout this pandemic.

According to a survey released last month, 51% of consumers have purchased at least one smart device since lockdown began in March 2020. Other than smartphones, some of these are specialized devices geared towards comfort, control, cooking, energy, entertainment, lighting, security, and any aspect of home living.

As we reorient and redesign our homes into “smart homes,” it is worth asking ourselves: is the enhanced comfort and convenience perhaps keeping us too locked down?

Or can these same innovations empower us to venture outside again and conquer new realities with heightened awareness, safety, and confidence?

Just look at the automotive industry. Of course, electric vehicles and self-driving cars are all the rage, but practically every vehicle can have smart capabilities thanks to smartphone apps.

It can be argued that apps make us lazier and dependent, but they can also make us more aware of our commuting habits and more attuned with our modes of transport. Personalized on-demand data such as fuel consumption trackers and dashboards help us understand how our machines work. Notifications like maintenance reminders and parking locations keep us more alert. 

More vehicles are coming with always-on features that allow calling and messaging, allowing drivers to reintegrate travel into their daily lives. 

In The Link, a brand new Filipino sci-fi short film, we get a glimpse of how such smart technology can make us more mobile and more connected to another form of transportation that moves us forward. The Link is directed by Gian Mawo and stars the voice of Patrice Patalinghug.

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For more information, visit TheLink2021.com. – Rappler.com