AT&T announces home security service roll out

Following last year’s announcement that it would be launching a new home security offering, telecommunications giant AT&T on Monday said that it plans to roll out its' new "Digital Life" services beginning in March in eight different markets and up to 50 additional markets throughout 2013.

According to the company, customers will be able to choose two different security packages: "Simple Security," which features basic home security services, and "Smart Security," which offers a myriad of different service options – from video surveillance to total home automation.

Those that opt for Smart Security can choose from number of different service packages including; video package (live video from inside and outside the home); energy package (remote control of appliances, lighting, and HVAC); door package (remote and automated control of door locks); and water package (detects water leaks within the home and can shut off water at the main source).

"The home security and automation market is about to expand significantly," Roger Entner, founder and lead analyst of Recon Analytics, said in a statement issued by the company.  "As the capabilities and usability of home automation solutions are dramatically improving, installation becoming easier, the value proposition is becoming a lot more attractive to consumers.  Not only can consumers protect their home against intruders, but with these new solutions they can save energy, keep an eye on what is going on in their home even when they are away and protect against costly accidents in their home."

AT&T’s Digital Life control panel is built by Cisco and will run the company’s all-digital, all-wireless home security and automation platform. Pricing details and specific market launches will be announced in March.

"We’re offering consumers a new experience in how they try, buy and experience home security and automation," said Kevin Petersen, senior vice president, AT&T Digital Life.  "Unlike other services in the market, we’ve designed a service that lets the customer customize their experience, from purchase to services selected to controlling these services through the app on the device of their choice."

Click here to read more about how AT&T’s move into home security will impact the larger market.