  Internet-connected consumer devices have rapidly increased in popularity;
however, relatively little is known about how these technologies are affecting
interpersonal relationships in multi-occupant households. In this study, we
conduct 13 semi-structured interviews and survey 508 individuals from a variety
of backgrounds to discover and categorize how consumer IoT devices are
affecting interpersonal relationships in the United States. We highlight
several themes, providing exploratory data about the pervasiveness of
interpersonal costs and benefits of consumer IoT devices. These results inform
follow-up studies and design priorities for future IoT technologies to amplify
positive and reduce negative interpersonal effects.
