SINGAPORE - Ten homes in Yuhua have been fitted with smart power plugs that let home owners know in real-time how much energy they are using as part of Singapore's smart nation trials. Energy readings collected by the smart plugs are shown on a dashboard that can be projected on TVs.

This is one of the items showcased at the Infocomm Development Authority's newly-renovated IExperience centre at Esplanade Xchange, unveiled on Friday by Minister for Communications and Information Dr Yaacob Ibrahim.

"IExperience gives a preview of Singapore as a smart nation: one where the extensive and systematic use of technology enables government and business to improve their operations and deliver their services seamlessly, and makes a difference to people's lives," he said.

"The smart nation vision can only be developed to its full potential with participation from all sectors," he added.

Other smart technologies showcased include a mailbox fitted with sensors and video cameras that accept parcel deliveries round-the-clock. When the postman presses the door bell, an alert will be sent to the mobile phone of the home owner. Even if the owner is away, he can remotely open the mailbox and verify the delivery via a video feed delivered to his smartphone.