AT&T has a reputation as being one of the premier providers of wireless phone services in the world, but the company recently unveiled a new product offering with the potential to revolutionize the company’s business model. In January, AT&T announced plans to launch a connectedhome security system, and that system launched at the end of April in 15 major U.S. cities, including New York, San Francisco, Seattle, Chicago, Dallas and Philadelphia. The system, called AT&T Digital Life, has been added to the company’s existing phone and tablet services.
The connected home security system, which is also often referred to as a home automation system, gives users the unique opportunity to connect appliances, such as lights, televisions and even thermostats, and then control these systems remotely through the use of a smartphone. Home automation systems have become increasingly popular, not only because of the security protection offered, but also because these systems allow the user to make their home more energy efficient and eco-friendly.
Other features that can be integrated into the AT&T connected home security systems include video surveillance systems and even door locks. Additionally, the systems will provide users with an automated security system. The system will connect to a monitoring center controlled by AT&T. If a threat is detected, AT&T employees will respond and alert the appropriate authorities.
Prior to the recent introduction of home automation systems by a number of alarm system companies, these systems were considered very high-tech and available only to wealthy individuals, but in recent years, particularly with the influx of smartphones, connected home security and automation systems have grown in popularity and the price has become more affordable than ever.
The system options offered by AT&T offers two options: basic and advanced packages. The basic package will cost customers about $30 a month for monitoring services, and installation and equipment costs will be $150. For the advanced system option, monitoring costs will be $40 a month, and service and installation costs will total $250. The basic package provides users with home monitoring, a 24-hour back-up battery and indoor siren, along with a range of other features. The advanced package includes all of the features provided by the basic package, along with the addition of a glass-break sensor and smoke and motion sensors.
Add-ons will also be available to customers of Digital Life, such as video surveillance cameras, which AT&T will charge $10 for, and connected door locks for an additional $5 per month.
According to a representative from AT&T, the goal of the creation of the new Digital Life system options is to increase revenue for thecompany and expand its potential market. The company reports that it has found it difficult to find new customers, since most people already own a cell phone, but only 20% of people in the United States currently have a home security system, which means there are millions of potential customers who could take advantage of Digital Life.
