IBM, STMicroelectronics, and Shaspa have announced a collaboration to tap cloud and mobile computing for manufacturers and service providers to provide new ways for consumers to manage and interact with their homes’ systems using multiple user interfaces such as voice recognition and physical gestures for a “smarter” home.
AT&T has announced plans to launch AT&T Digital Life, an all-digital, wireless-based home security and automation service, in eight markets in March. The company said AT&T Digital Life will equip customers with control of their homes from a smartphone, tablet, or PC, regardless of wireless carrier or broadband provider.
The global market for home automation services saw strong growth during 2012, driven by a wave of new entrants and offerings in the North American market, according to ABI Research. The United States in particular leads in deployments and new shipments, acting as a bellwether for markets around the world.
The Automatic Security Valve gives the homeowner a secure feeling and flood protection. The product integrates with most home automation and security systems. The actuator housing rating is rated at NEMA 6P (waterproof) and NEMA 7D (ignitionproof).
Powerhouse Dynamics, creator of the eMonitor™ energy management system, announced that Ingersoll Rand has made a strategic investment in the company. Powerhouse Dynamics’ eMonitor system is being integrated into Ingersoll Rand’s Nexia™ Home Intelligence system.
HVAC contractors are working with a select group of homeowners looking to use their mobile devices to remotely control their indoor environment. It’s a niche market now but that should change significantly as more consumers with smart phones and tablets become aware of the remote control capability of HVAC thermostats and systems.
Bay Area Services, a successful HVAC contractor in Green Bay, Wis., is using Internet-connected door locks, security cameras, and thermostats as a means to an end: to build his customer list and increase sales on service calls.
The rapid increase in the use of iPhones, iPads, and countless mobile devices has had a major affect on HVAC products and technologies that enable homeowners to control temperature, humidity, and energy consumption in their homes from anywhere at any time of day.
The Continental Automated Buildings Association (CABA) and ClimateTalk Alliance announced that they have signed an agreement to collaborate on intelligent home and intelligent building issues.
The Continental Automated Buildings Association (CABA) will be holding its next Digital Home Forum in San Diego on Oct. 11 and 12, 2012. The event, hosted by CABA member Qualcomm, will bring together leading companies dealing with the integration of home technologies.
