Verizon readying home monitoring, automation system?
updated 02:05 pm EDT, Fri March 20, 2009
Verizon home automation
FCC documents indicate that Verizon may be readying a home automation and control system based on technology from 4Home, according to CEPro. The configuration would provide a Home Monitoring Gateway and Home Monitor Service, based on a Westell device called Control Point. Integrated Z-Wave wireless technology would provide connectivity with components such as thermostats, motion sensors, lights, door locks and garage door openers, among others.
The Control Point could also be used to attach local storage such as memory sticks or hard drives, via USB, or even IP-based surveillance cameras. The various devices are accessible from any web browser or from a mobile interface on Verizon handsets. Users can then adjust the home temperature, view camera feeds, unlock doors or turn on lights.
The document also indicates that the home page will be customizable by adding or removing widgets with a configuration tool. Users can also set alerts, such as video clips that are sent to a mobile phone if a motion sensor is tripped.
Both Verizon and 4Home declined to comment on the FCC documents. Pricing and a launch schedule remain unknown.
