When it comes to work and office life, the top responses were slow internet connection (46.3%) and forgetting passwords (also 46.3%). At home, the top annoyances were forgetting what you went into a room for (57.4%) and parcel deliveries going AWOL (51.9%). And while out and about, most people said their top annoyance was a rainy weekend after a week of sun (40.7%) and, of course, public transport delays (37%). 

We’ve all been there – walking into a room only to forget why you went in, or having your day ruined by a last-minute transport delay. Fortunately, technology is on hand to help turn all of our everyday irritations into minor blips, rather than full-blown frustrations. Here’s a look at some of the most common gripes and how tech can save the day.

1. Walking into a room and forgetting why you’re there

Digital assistants like Alexa and Siri are making this annoyance a thing of the past. Simply speak your thoughts out loud before they vanish. These voice assistants can set quick reminders for you in seconds. Better yet, apps like Google Keep and Microsoft To Do let you jot down notes that sync across all your devices, and location based reminders can be set to give you a nudge at just the right time and place. 

2. Deliveries being left in the rain or going AWOL

Few things are as frustrating as waiting eagerly for a package, only to find it left out in a downpour or nowhere to be seen. Devices like Ring and Nest doorbells provide live video feeds of your doorstep, allowing you to keep tabs on deliveries wherever you are. Some delivery services have also upped their game with smart lockers and predictive AI, ensuring your parcel doesn’t end up in the wrong place or left to soak in the rain. Add in real-time tracking apps from companies like Amazon or UberEats, and the mystery of “Where’s my delivery?” is rapidly becoming a thing of the past.

3. Infuriating software updates – just when you need to use it

You’re just about to jump on an important video call or send a crucial email, and your device decides it’s the perfect time for an update. We’ve all been there. Luckily, tech companies have gotten the memo and operating systems now offer scheduled updates during non-peak hours, often in the middle of the night. Apps like Google Chrome also roll out smaller, incremental updates that download in the background, so you’re not stuck staring at a loading bar when time’s ticking.

4. Loud voices in open-plan offices or restaurants

Noise-cancelling headphones like AirPods Pro can block out distractions, letting you focus in peace. If you’re in a virtual meeting, Krisp is an AI-powered app that mutes background noise. On a larger scale, some modern offices have taken to using acoustic panels and smart sound systems to create quieter spaces, proving that tech can solve even the most analogue of problems.

5. Transport delays that mess up your day

Apps like Google Maps and Citymapper use real-time traffic data and predictive algorithms to help you stay one step ahead. Get live updates on road conditions, accidents, or delayed trains and find the fastest alternative route in seconds. If public transport lets you down, ride-sharing apps like Uber or scooter services like Lime offer quick solutions to get you moving again, turning a potential day-wrecker into a slight inconvenience.

6. Slow drivers blocking the road

Thanks to adaptive cruise control and driver assistance software in modern cars, your vehicle can automatically adjust its speed, easing the frustration of traffic jams. If you’re not behind the wheel, Google Maps and Waze can help you navigate around slow-moving traffic by predicting where the bottlenecks are, getting you to your destination faster with minimal stress.

Tech has done wonders for easing these everyday annoyances, but this is just the tip of the iceberg. Expect more advancements in AI-powered predictions, augmented reality assistants, and smarter, more integrated home and city systems. Who knows? One day, you might not even need to set reminders – your home will just know what you need.

In the meantime, while life will always have its little hiccups, at least we’ve got technology smoothing the way, making our day-to-day routines a little easier, a little faster, and a whole lot less stressful.

The next generation of tech innovators

As part of our ongoing commitment to nurturing the next generation of bespoke software developers, we have launched a national competition for year 12 tech students to come up with their own solutions to beat Britain’s top everyday annoyances. Download the entry criteria form HERE.

This is open to A-level, BTEC, T-Level or any other students completing a computing-related subject, with prizes ranging from Amazon gift cards, to the chance bag work experience working alongside Propel Tech’s bespoke software developers. 

We’ll be sharing the most innovative ideas and outcomes from the competition early next year. Please contact claire.anderson@propeltech.co.uk for more information.