Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Comcast's 'Project Dayview' does PDA duty across TV, phone, PC and tablet (update: video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/comcast-project-dayview-agenda-pda-four-screen/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/comcast-project-dayview-agenda-pda-four-screen/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/21/comcast-project-dayview-agenda-pda-four-screen/#comments Comcast's 'Project Dayview' project does PDA duty across TV, phone, PC and tablet

While we expected to see Comcast roll out its X1 DVR platform today at the Cable Show, more surprising is the new Project Dayview initiative. As seen above, it attempts to provide a single cross-platform home screen that combines info from its services and third party sources to give customers a quick look at what's important to them, on any screen. Potential sources include Comcast services (DVR schedule from your cable box, voicemails from the home phone, email, or home security / automation updates when you're away) as well as third party information like your current calendar software, social media and local news. While ambitious, it does reflect a futuristic ability to bring its users relevant information (based on the time of day, it could pull the traffic report before you leave for work or TV listings in the evening, for example) automatically. How well it all works remains to be seen once this is integrated with the new DVR software and apps later this year, but you can get an idea of what Comcast has up its sleeve for your four screens from the pictures in the gallery below.

Update: Check out a video of CEO Neil Smit demonstrating Project Dayview on the show floor embedded after the break.

Gallery: Comcast Project Dayview UI

Continue reading Comcast's 'Project Dayview' does PDA duty across TV, phone, PC and tablet (update: video)

Comcast's 'Project Dayview' does PDA duty across TV, phone, PC and tablet (update: video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 May 2012 14:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>agendaautomationcable showcable show 2012CableShowCableShow2012comcastdvrfour screenFourScreenhdpostcrosshome automationhome securityHomeAutomationHomeSecuritymobilepostcrossproject dayviewProjectDayviewsecuritytrafficvideoMon, 21 May 2012 14:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft Research wants to automate your house, introduces HomeOS]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/microsoft-research-home-automation-homeOS/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/microsoft-research-home-automation-homeOS/http://www.engadget.com/2012/04/30/microsoft-research-home-automation-homeOS/#comments microsoft-research-home-automation-homeOS

Ever wondered if you could control your house's climate, security, and appliances -- along with your PCs and peripherals -- using Microsoft software? That day may soon dawn, as its Research arm has started testing its home automation software, called HomeOS, in twelve domiciles over the past few months. The budding system views smartphones, printers and air conditioners as network peripherals, controlled by a dedicated gateway computer. The project even has a handful of apps in play, which perform functions like energy monitoring, remote surveillance and face-recognition. This growing list of applications, available through a portal called "HomeStore", will allow users to easily expand their system's capabilities. So how does it all work out in the real world? Head past the break, and let Redmond's research team give you the skinny.

Continue reading Microsoft Research wants to automate your house, introduces HomeOS

Microsoft Research wants to automate your house, introduces HomeOS originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 Apr 2012 02:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applianceappliancesappsballmergatewayhome automationhome networkingHomeAutomationHomeNetworkinghomeOSHomeStorehouseholdmicrosoftmicrosoft researchMicrosoftResearchnetworkingpcvideowindowsMon, 30 Apr 2012 02:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Connected Home Gateway home automation all-in-one hits the FCC with Verizon tags]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/23/motorola-connected-home-gateway-home-automation-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/23/motorola-connected-home-gateway-home-automation-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/23/motorola-connected-home-gateway-home-automation-fcc/#comments ImageWe first got our eyes on Motorola's Connected Home Gateway home automation box during CES 2012, and now that it's passed through the FCC it should be ready to do its all-in-one magic in real consumer's homes sometime soon. What makes this device special is its ability to speak more than one of the various wireless home control protocols currently in use, easily connecting to, controlling and spitting out macros to make multiple things happen with a minimum of user interference or setup. Want to dim the lights, lower the temperature and turn on security cams as soon as you step outside your door? It can do that. This will all be a part of Verizon's Z-wave based Home Monitoring and Control system at some point, if you're still wondering what possibilities are out there, check out our CES demo video embedded after the break.

Continue reading Motorola Connected Home Gateway home automation all-in-one hits the FCC with Verizon tags

Motorola Connected Home Gateway home automation all-in-one hits the FCC with Verizon tags originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 23 Mar 2012 23:33:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4homeconnected home gatewayConnectedHomeGatewaycontrolfccfiosgatewayhdpostcrossHome AutomationHomeAutomationmotorolasecurityverizonvideoz-waveFri, 23 Mar 2012 23:33:00 EST<![CDATA[SQ Blaster Plus blasts some infra-red at the FCC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/18/sq-blaster-plus-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/18/sq-blaster-plus-fcc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/18/sq-blaster-plus-fcc/#comments
The SQ Blaster Plus strolled into town, but before it knew what had hit it, it was bundled into the back of a van and taken to the FCC's secret underground bunker in Washington. It was there that strange men in blue lab coats found out what lay beneath that black plastic box that's remarkably similar to last year's offering. Hidden inside is a 802.11 b/g WiFi module and an infrared blaster, capable of beaming out commands to your TV and similarly equipped appliances. It's also only packing the one side-mounted aerial, whereas the older generation had the choice of internal or external. Now that it's been passed fit and proper by the government, it can't be long until it reaches our shelves pre-order lists.

SQ Blaster Plus blasts some infra-red at the FCC originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 18 Mar 2012 02:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>FCChdpostcrossHome AutomationHomeAutomationSQ BlasterSQ Blaster PlusSqBlasterSqBlasterPlusSun, 18 Mar 2012 02:31:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T announces home automation platform, eco-ratings for consumer devices]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/att-announces-home-automation-platform-and-eco-ratings/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/att-announces-home-automation-platform-and-eco-ratings/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/23/att-announces-home-automation-platform-and-eco-ratings/#commentsAT&T announces home automation platform, eco-ratings for consumer devicesToday, AT&T revealed that it's working on a new home monitoring and automation platform known as Digital Life. While it'll be marketed toward service providers, the IP-based system will allow business and residential users alike to remotely monitor cameras, lighting, thermostats, motion detectors, window and door sensors, along with a litany of other devices. It'll be demonstrated next week in Barcelona as part of the GSM Association's Connected Home experience. As you'd expect, we'll be there to bring you a peek of AT&T's handiwork.

The company has also announced that, later this year, customers will find eco-rating labels on AT&T-branded mobile devices. With this initiative, shoppers may evaluate criteria such as a product's energy efficiency, the percentage of recycled materials used in manufacture, and the inclusion of metals such as lead, cadmium and mercury. These factors and more will be presented as a composite score that evaluates the sustainability attributes of each device -- think of it as an easy way to get your green in gear. You'll find the PR for both announcements after the break.

Continue reading AT&T announces home automation platform, eco-ratings for consumer devices

AT&T announces home automation platform, eco-ratings for consumer devices originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attdigital lifeDigitalLifeeco ratingeco scoreEcoRatingEcoScoreemerging devicesEmergingDevicesgsm associationgsmaGsmAssociationhdpostcrosshome automationHomeAutomationindexmobilepostcrossmwcmwc 2012Mwc2012ratingscoresustainabilitysustainability scoreSustainabilityScoresustainableThu, 23 Feb 2012 08:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Elevate aims high, agrees to become Sprint's newest MVNO]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/elevate-sprint-new-mvno/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/elevate-sprint-new-mvno/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/07/elevate-sprint-new-mvno/#comments
Another MVNO is going live on Sprint's network, and this time Elevate is the one signing the dotted line. The company, known primarily for providing digital services such as VoIP, wireline and wireless broadband in 22 markets across the country, is now aiming to expand its portfolio by using the Now Network to provide both postpaid and prepaid mobile plans for its customers. While we're still waiting to hear the specifics, Elevate mentioned that it will feature Android and "Windows-based devices." The MVNO will also be leveraged to support the company's Smart Home automation service, taking advantage of a new app that will give customers remote access to all aspects of their home security systems. Head over to the press release to glean every last little detail.

Continue reading Elevate aims high, agrees to become Sprint's newest MVNO

Elevate aims high, agrees to become Sprint's newest MVNO originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 07 Feb 2012 12:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidelevatehome automationHomeAutomationmobilepostminimvnosecuritysecurity systemSecuritySystemsmart homeSmartHomesprintsprint mvnoSprintMvnowindows phoneWindowsPhoneTue, 07 Feb 2012 12:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Cortexa's ZE Home Controller: recreate Demon Seed for a fraction of the cost]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/cortexa-s-ze-home-controller-recreate-demon-seed-for-a-fraction/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/cortexa-s-ze-home-controller-recreate-demon-seed-for-a-fraction/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/25/cortexa-s-ze-home-controller-recreate-demon-seed-for-a-fraction/#comments Your home is the next frontier for gadgeteers across the world and Cortexa's leading the way by releasing a new kit that'll turn your house into Proteus IV in a matter of minutes. The EZ Home Automation Ready Controller can manage lighting, security cameras and thermostats from the comfort of its Flash-based (aww) web-interface or iOS app. It's also retailing an EZ-Wave Starter package with ten dimmers, thermostat, energy monitor, controller and two lamp modules for quick fitting. You'll also be able to save on energy bills, cutting your power down when you're out and about or by setting custom actions for those lightbulb-left-on-moments. Cortexa's building a HTML5 interface as well as support for Hal and Lutron-based systems, which are due to arrive in "a few weeks." The starter kit will set you back $1,800, while remote access costs $50 a year (or $5 a month). After the break we've got PR for everyone who wants to really freak out the kid you paid to come house-sit when you're on vacation.

[Thanks, Jesse]

Continue reading Cortexa's ZE Home Controller: recreate Demon Seed for a fraction of the cost

Cortexa's ZE Home Controller: recreate Demon Seed for a fraction of the cost originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 25 Jan 2012 17:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CortexaDemon SeedDemonSeedEZ-WaveEZ-Wave Home Automation Ready ControllerEz-waveHomeAutomationReadyControllerFlashHALHome AutomationHome ControlHome ControllerHomeAutomationHomeControlHomeControllerHTML5LutronProteus IVProteusIvSmart HomeSmartHomeThermostatWed, 25 Jan 2012 17:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung NaviBot-S hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/samsung-navibot-s-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/samsung-navibot-s-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/12/samsung-navibot-s-hands-on-video/#comments If you're looking to control more than your washer and dryer with your mobile device, Samsung can oblige with an update to its NaviBot line. The latest smart vacuum model, NaviBot-S, can be summoned via the same app that is used with some of the company's other WiFi-enabled appliances, or the more traditional stock remote control. Featuring Visionary Mapping Plus, it uses a ceiling cam to seek out and remember the best route to and from its charging station. The robovac also uses a dust sensor to determine just how dirty your floors are and the exact location of those dropped Cheerios. Should the tech develop a mind of its own, there are some controls on the top panel that will allow you to get things under control right on the device. Now you can prep for those annoying 'drop by' guests while your on the drive home from the market -- with 90% efficiency. As far as cleaning time goes, you can expect around 100 minutes of work per three hour charge. For a demo of the NaviBot gathering up spillage, hop on past the break and peep the video.

Gallery: Samsung Navibot S hands-on

Continue reading Samsung NaviBot-S hands-on (video)

Samsung NaviBot-S hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Jan 2012 01:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appcesces 2012Ces2012hands-onHome AutomationHomeAutomationhouseholdnavibot-ssamsungsamsung navibotsamsung navibot-sSamsungNavibotSamsungNavibot-ssmartphonetabletvideoThu, 12 Jan 2012 01:54:00 EST<![CDATA[Siri finds new employment in Crestron's home automation biz (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/siri-based-home-automation-for-crestron/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/siri-based-home-automation-for-crestron/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/11/siri-based-home-automation-for-crestron/#comments It was with mild curiosity that we witnessed Siri control a thermostat, but thanks to an integrated setup from Carnes Audio Visual -- a custom installer of home automation systems in Little Rock -- we couldn't help but gawk as Apple's soft-spoken assistant reigned supreme over an entire house. With help from Crestron's AMS-AIP home automation equipment and an intermediary proxy server, we're shown voice control of lighting, temperature, home theater equipment and more. You'll definitely want to check the video after the break, which is likely to make the folks at Control4 more than a bit nervous.

Continue reading Siri finds new employment in Crestron's home automation biz (video)

Siri finds new employment in Crestron's home automation biz (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Jan 2012 07:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecarnes audio visualCarnesAudioVisualCESCES 2012Ces2012crestroncrestron electronicscrestron mobilecrestron mobile proCrestronElectronicsCrestronMobileCrestronMobileProhdpostcrosshome automationHomeAutomationiosiphone 4sIphone4ssiriWed, 11 Jan 2012 07:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung WiFi Washer and Dryer hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/samsung-smarthome-wifi-washer-and-dryer-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/samsung-smarthome-wifi-washer-and-dryer-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/samsung-smarthome-wifi-washer-and-dryer-hands-on-video/#comments We've all needed to keep the laundry going while we're out and about. Samsung is looking to help with that and let us in on their plans at yesterday's presser. The WF457 washer and dryer set houses an 8-inch touchscreen, is WiFi-enabled and can be controlled from inside or outside of the home via a mobile app. With your smartphone or tablet, you can choose the cycle, duration and set-up notifications on your mobile device once the job is done. Neither are available as of yet, but rest assured, this will be a neat piece of tech you should consider. Want a demo? Head on to the gallery below and video.

After spending some time controlling a few eight second demo cycles, we were pretty impressed with the system as a whole. Amazingly enough, our load of towels was completely dry. The app worked well and stayed connected for the most part -- granted, we were in the midst of the CES WiFi crossfire. We did encounter some issues when controlling the dryer with a smartphone and then interacting with the appliance's touchscreen. The SmartHome tech seemed to only like to take orders from one source at a time. Other than that, everything went off without a hitch and the phone notification feature is quite a nice touch. Either way, not having to get up to fluff those 400-thread-count sheets is a luxury we can all enjoy in some capacity.

Gallery: Samsung SmartHome WiFi Washer and Dryer hands-on

Continue reading Samsung WiFi Washer and Dryer hands-on (video)

Samsung WiFi Washer and Dryer hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 15:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappliancesapplicationcesces 2012Ces2012dryerFeatured StoriesFeaturedStorieshands-onhome automationHomeAutomationhouseholdsamsungsamsung smarthome dryersamsung smarthome washersamsung wf457SamsungSmarthomeDryerSamsungSmarthomeWasherSamsungWf457smarthome appSmarthomeAppsmartphonetabletvideowasherwf457wifiTue, 10 Jan 2012 15:48:00 EST<![CDATA[Belkin announces WeMo home automation system; controls electrical outlets with your smartphone, motion]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/belkin-announces-wemo-home-automation-system-controls-electrica/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/belkin-announces-wemo-home-automation-system-controls-electrica/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/09/belkin-announces-wemo-home-automation-system-controls-electrica/#comments If you're looking to control the electrical outlets of your home or apartment via your newfangled smartphone, Belkin has you covered. The company has unveiled the first two products of its newly launched WeMo line of home automation technology. The WeMo Home Control Switch is a plug that doubles as a programmable on / off for any device from lighting to coffee pots. Alongside the outlet power control, the WeMo Motion Sensor will detect your movement and when used in tandem with the Home Control Switch, can be programmed to power on electrical items in reaction to motion. Both pieces of the Belkin kit require the free WeMo app and will set you back $49.99 and $59.99, in order of mention. These two initial products will be available in the US in March, with more devices coming in the Fall.

Continue reading Belkin announces WeMo home automation system; controls electrical outlets with your smartphone, motion

Belkin announces WeMo home automation system; controls electrical outlets with your smartphone, motion originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplicationbelkinbelkin wemoBelkinWemocesces 2012Ces2012electricalelectrical outletsElectricalOutletshome automationhome automation systemHomeAutomationHomeAutomationSystemhouseholdsmartphonewemowifiwirelessMon, 09 Jan 2012 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola's Connected Home Gateway makes your house smarter, turns it into a 4Home]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/motorolas-connected-home-gateway-makes-your-house-smarter-turn/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/motorolas-connected-home-gateway-makes-your-house-smarter-turn/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/05/motorolas-connected-home-gateway-makes-your-house-smarter-turn/#comments 4Home The world of home automation is one full of disparate, fragmented pieces often requiring high-dollar contractors with trucks full of adapters. Motorola's been trying to streamline that with its 4Home standard and the company's latest attempt at smarthome synchronicity has just been unveiled. It's called the Connected Home Gateway and it looks like your average wireless router, but it's actually much more than that -- according to Moto's press release, anyway, which promises the thing can easily tie together home security, automation and climate control into a single, petite box. Once harmonized, the whole package is said to be easily accessible from a mobile device, something that might help homeowners relax a bit more while on vacation -- or while covering a major convention in Las Vegas. We're still lacking a lot of details here (like, how exactly do all these devices connect to the thing) but we'll try to get a demo and more details as soon as possible.

Continue reading Motorola's Connected Home Gateway makes your house smarter, turns it into a 4Home

Motorola's Connected Home Gateway makes your house smarter, turns it into a 4Home originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 05 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2012Ces2012climateconnected home gatewayConnectedHomeGatewaygatewayhome automationhome securityHomeAutomationHomeSecurityhouseholdmotorolaThu, 05 Jan 2012 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Control4 MyHome app takes up residence on Android while Android@Home is out of town]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/control4-myhome-app-takes-up-residence-on-android-while-android/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/control4-myhome-app-takes-up-residence-on-android-while-android/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/21/control4-myhome-app-takes-up-residence-on-android-while-android/#comments Home automation provider Control4 has finally seen fit to open up its systems to Android users, releasing a version of its MyHome software for phones and tablets. Already available on iOS and PCs, it lets homeowners with Control4 setups manage their video, music, lighting and more on their own devices with taps and gestures. The apps themselves are free, but naturally one will need a MyHome license to use them, which runs $499 for multiple devices at one location or $199 for a single device. Of course, if you've had one of these installed scraping together the cash probably won't be too difficult, so while you're checking the couch for loose change we'll sit back and wonder whatever happened to that Android@Home project we (haven't) heard so much about. Press release and demo video follow after the break.

Continue reading Control4 MyHome app takes up residence on Android while Android@Home is out of town

Control4 MyHome app takes up residence on Android while Android@Home is out of town originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 21 Dec 2011 04:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid appAndroidAppandroidathomeappcontrol4googlehdpostminihome automationHomeAutomationmyhomemyhome for androidMyhomeForAndroidphonetabletvideoWed, 21 Dec 2011 04:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Scanomat TopBrewer brings iPhone control, elegant design to single-cup coffee makers (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/scanomat-topbrewer-brings-iphone-control-elegant-design-to-sing/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/scanomat-topbrewer-brings-iphone-control-elegant-design-to-sing/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/05/scanomat-topbrewer-brings-iphone-control-elegant-design-to-sing/#comments There's no question that we love our coffee, but we're often far less intrigued by the brewing process than we are the result. With its incredibly sleek design and simple iPhone or iPad control, Scanomat's faucet-like TopBrewer could easily become one of the few exceptions, however. This fully automatic coffee machine grinds your beans, measures out ingredients and foams milk, before dishing out the perfect cup. But iOS control is the keystone of this elegant solution, letting you make your beverage selection from a wireless device, leaving nothing but the stainless steel tap exposed. Craving a cappuccino? Simply toss your cup under the spigot and tap an icon. You can also dispense cold milk or water, hot chocolate and even carbonated water -- all from the same head. Scanomat has yet to hint at a release date or price, but if you have to ask... Jump past the break for a quick taste, courtesy of some lucky folks at a hospitality industry expo in Milan.

[Thanks, Fredrik]

Continue reading Scanomat TopBrewer brings iPhone control, elegant design to single-cup coffee makers (video)

Scanomat TopBrewer brings iPhone control, elegant design to single-cup coffee makers (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 05 Dec 2011 21:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplianceappliancesappsautomationcoffeecoffee brewingcoffee machinecoffee makercoffee makersCoffeeBrewingCoffeeMachineCoffeeMakerCoffeeMakershome automationHomeAutomationiosios appios appsIosAppIosAppsipadiphonescanomatscanomat TopBrewerScanomatTopbrewerTopBrewervideoMon, 05 Dec 2011 21:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Corvair 6-inch Android 2.3 tablet outed, destined for the home automation set?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/05/motorola-corvair-6-inch-android-2-3-tablet-outed-destined-for-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/05/motorola-corvair-6-inch-android-2-3-tablet-outed-destined-for-t/http://www.engadget.com/2011/11/05/motorola-corvair-6-inch-android-2-3-tablet-outed-destined-for-t/#comments There are plenty of WiFi-connected remote control apps for tablets, dongles for IR control and even an IR blaster built into Vizio's tablet, but here's a Motorola slab purpose-built for the coffee table. The Verge has received several pics of the Motorola Corvair (and its packaging), a "dedicated controller for the connected" ...something, which is apparently in testing with unnamed cable companies right now. It's a 6-inch tablet running Android 2.3, that the box shows working as a remote control and apparently mirroring its display on the TV screen. Other notes indicate it's optimized for low cost, packs a healthy 4,000mAh battery, and can communicate with other devices via IR or Zigbee's RF4CE spec (where's Android@Home?). That would line it up perfectly to tie in with home automation systems like the one Motorola and Verizon just launched, as well as potentially provide a sweet platform for content discovery. The only downside? Unless Moto goes against type, this will probably never see retail and we'll have to wait on our cable company to figure out a way to charge extra for one and slap their own ugly software on it -- here's hoping that's not the case.

Motorola Corvair 6-inch Android 2.3 tablet outed, destined for the home automation set? originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 05 Nov 2011 16:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidandroid 2.3Android2.3cablecable boxCableBoxcorvairgingerbreadgooglehdpostminihome automationHomeAutomationirmotorolamotorola corvairMotorolaCorvairremoteremote controlRemoteControlrf4cetabletzigbeeSat, 05 Nov 2011 16:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Crestron debuts free, paid mobile apps for Android devices]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/crestron-debuts-free-paid-mobile-apps-for-android-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/crestron-debuts-free-paid-mobile-apps-for-android-devices/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/crestron-debuts-free-paid-mobile-apps-for-android-devices/#comments It's taken some time, but Crestron has finally rolled out an official version of its home automation remote control software for Android. Crestron's iOS efforts have been around and there was also an unofficial solution available from former Sling founder Blake Krikorian, but now users can choose between the free Crestron Mobile app and $100 Crestron Mobile Pro app. Judging by its iOS counterpart, the Pro version adds a number of control options including pre-set scenes and more. Of course, if you're rocking one of the company's setups then we figure you pay someone to explain this stuff to you who can probably break it down in more detail. Hit the link below to download or check out the press release after the break.

Continue reading Crestron debuts free, paid mobile apps for Android devices

Crestron debuts free, paid mobile apps for Android devices originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 03:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>android appAndroidAppappcrestroncrestron electronicscrestron mobilecrestron mobile proCrestronElectronicsCrestronMobileCrestronMobileProhdpostminihome automationHomeAutomationmobileremote controlRemoteControlMon, 17 Oct 2011 03:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola and Verizon team up for Z-Wave monitoring service, let you control your home as you roam]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/12/motorola-and-verizon-team-up-for-z-wave-monitoring-service-let/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/12/motorola-and-verizon-team-up-for-z-wave-monitoring-service-let/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/12/motorola-and-verizon-team-up-for-z-wave-monitoring-service-let/#comments Do you have Verizon broadband and an overwhelming desire to dim your lights remotely and spy on the kids while you're out on a date? Verizon's mew Home Monitoring and Control service lets internet subscribers add Motorola's Z-Wave-based 4Home automation system to their existing package, enabling access to networked cameras, light controls, smart thermostats and door locks. With the $10 monthly service, you can monitor a collection of wireless cameras, unlock doors for family members or guests, or adjust the thermostat using a web-connected tablet or smartphone. The basic Home Monitoring Kit will run you $70, and includes a wireless camera and single light control. A $170 Energy Control Kit swaps the wireless cam for a connected thermostat and Energy Reader, while a $220 Home Monitoring and Control Kit includes all of the above. Door locks, window sensors and additional cameras are sold a la carte, making a complete system a rather pricey proposition. Jump past the break for a handful of man on the street customer testimonials (spoiler alert: they love it!).

Continue reading Motorola and Verizon team up for Z-Wave monitoring service, let you control your home as you roam

Motorola and Verizon team up for Z-Wave monitoring service, let you control your home as you roam originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 12 Oct 2011 15:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4Homehome automationHome Monitor ServiceHome Monitoring and ControlHome Monitoring GatewayHomeAutomationHomeControlCenterHomeMonitoringAndControlHomeMonitoringGatewayHomeMonitorServicemotorolamotorola 4homeMotorola4homeVerizonverizon home automationverizon Home Monitoring and ControlVerizonHomeAutomationVerizonHomeMonitoringAndControlvideoWestellz-waveWed, 12 Oct 2011 15:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Yale demos NFC-enabled residential locks, germaphobes rejoice (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/yale-demos-nfc-enabled-residential-locks-germaphobes-rejoice-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/yale-demos-nfc-enabled-residential-locks-germaphobes-rejoice-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/20/yale-demos-nfc-enabled-residential-locks-germaphobes-rejoice-v/#comments Assa Abloy has already brought NFC-based door locks to some Swedish hotel rooms, but one of its subsidiary companies is now looking to bring them to your doorstep, as well. Earlier this month, Yale Locks & Hardware unveiled what it hopes will be the first NFC-enabled residential lock to hit the US market. With this system, all you'll need to do is wave your smartphone in front of one of Yale's Real Living line of motorized locks, which will then automatically open (as long as you've been authorized to do so). Demoed at this year's CEDIA Expo, these revamped locks are also compatible with either Zigbee or Z-Wave home automation technologies and support Assa Abloy's Mobile Keys software, which allows users to securely load all of their digital keys on their handsets. Pricing and availability remain unclear, but you can unlock more details in the brief demo video and full press release, after the break.

Continue reading Yale demos NFC-enabled residential locks, germaphobes rejoice (video)

Yale demos NFC-enabled residential locks, germaphobes rejoice (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 20 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>abbas abloyAbbasAbloycedia expocedia expo 2011CediaExpoCediaExpo2011commercialdoorhomeHome AutomationHomeAutomationlockMobile KeysMobileKeysnear field communicationNearFieldCommunicationnfcreal livingRealLivingresidentialsmartphonesoftwarevideoyaleYale LocksYaleLocksz-wavezigbeeTue, 20 Sep 2011 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Siemens shows off iPad-controlled homeConnect appliances]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/siemens-shows-off-ipad-controlled-homeconnect-appliances/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/siemens-shows-off-ipad-controlled-homeconnect-appliances/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/31/siemens-shows-off-ipad-controlled-homeconnect-appliances/#comments You use your mobile device for pretty much everything these days, right? So why not the kitchen? That was part of Siemens' pitch today at IFA -- the ability to control your cooking and dish washing from afar. The company debuted homeConnect, a "networked kitchen," which lets homeowners check on their energy consumption, shut down appliances remotely, receive notifications when the washing is done and view the contents of their fridges in real time -- with the help of internal cameras trained at the food. By downloading recipes from the internet, users can also import temperature and cooking times. This isn't the first time we've seen some kitchen-based connectivity, of course -- LG debuted the similar smartphone-based Thinq line at CES earlier this year.

Gallery: Siemens homeConnect

Continue reading Siemens shows off iPad-controlled homeConnect appliances

Siemens shows off iPad-controlled homeConnect appliances originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 31 Aug 2011 08:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applianceappliancesautomationconnected homeConnectedHomehome automationHomeAutomationIfa2011refrigeratorrefrigeratorsSiemenswasherwashing machineWashingMachinewashingtonWed, 31 Aug 2011 08:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Netduino and WP7 used to remotely control sprinkler system, show off Microsoft's DIY credentials]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/netduino-and-wp7-used-to-remotely-control-sprinkler-system-show/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/netduino-and-wp7-used-to-remotely-control-sprinkler-system-show/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/22/netduino-and-wp7-used-to-remotely-control-sprinkler-system-show/#comments WP7 and Netduino controlled sprinkler Arduino, Android and the iPhone usually get all the DIY love, but Mike Linnen, he has taken the road less traveled by -- turning to Windows Phone 7, Azure and a Netduino Plus to get his home hacking on. The .NET-powered microcontroller is the heart of Linnen's new sprinkler system which can be scheduled to turn on and off automatically or manually triggered remotely from his WP7 handset. The system also monitors weather forecasts and, if the chance of rain is above 39-percent, any sprinkler activity for the day is canceled to avoid over watering the grass and plants. It's all pretty neat, and there's some DOS command line action thrown in for good measure. Check out the lengthy demo video after the break, and hit up the source for more detail and the necessary code to set up your own.

Continue reading Netduino and WP7 used to remotely control sprinkler system, show off Microsoft's DIY credentials

Netduino and WP7 used to remotely control sprinkler system, show off Microsoft's DIY credentials originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 22 Aug 2011 13:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>.netazureDIYdo it yourselfDoItYourselfhackhackingHome AutomationHomeAutomationMicrosoftmicrosoft azureMicrosoftAzuremobilepostcrossnetduinonetduino plusNetduinoPlussprinklersprinkler systemsprinklersSprinklerSystemwindows phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7wp7Mon, 22 Aug 2011 13:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 Encore redefines 'affordable,' looks good doing it (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/bang-and-olufsens-beosound-5-encore-redefines-affordable-looks/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/bang-and-olufsens-beosound-5-encore-redefines-affordable-looks/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/26/bang-and-olufsens-beosound-5-encore-redefines-affordable-looks/#comments It's certainly been a while since Bang & Olufsen's given any love to its gorgeous (but pricey) BeoSound 5, but refining self-proclaimed perfection takes... well, about three years. The more affordable $3,350 BeoSound 5 Encore carries over the svelte 10.4-inch LCD / scroll wheel toting controller from its predecessor, but nixes the BeoMaster music server requirement, allowing it to run headless (and in turn save you bookodles of cash). So how does one play tunes if it rides solo? With a bevy of new connectivity options: content can now be slung over USB (be it via a "mobile device," thumb key or hard drive), from a NAS, over A2DP Bluetooth, or from one of 13,000 internet radio stations. It'll ship in August, which'll leave you plenty of time to count those pennies, and perhaps to ponder why it couldn't spring for finer graphics in the video that awaits you beyond the fold.

Continue reading Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 Encore redefines 'affordable,' looks good doing it (video)

Bang & Olufsen's BeoSound 5 Encore redefines 'affordable,' looks good doing it (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 26 Jul 2011 05:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioaudio controllerAudioControllerbang olufsenbang olufsen beosound 5BangOlufsenBangOlufsenBeosound5beosoundbesound 5Besound5bocontrollerhome automationHomeAutomationmusicvideoTue, 26 Jul 2011 05:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Habey USA's 12-inch panel PC brings that rugged look to your home]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/habey-usas-12-inch-panel-pc-brings-that-rugged-look-to-your-hom/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/habey-usas-12-inch-panel-pc-brings-that-rugged-look-to-your-hom/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/24/habey-usas-12-inch-panel-pc-brings-that-rugged-look-to-your-hom/#comments It's a shame this steel-encased touchscreen PC from Habey USA arrived too late for our violent outburst on the Engadget Show, but at least it has some broadly agreeable specs. The PPC-6512 can reel off 1080p vids on its 12-inch screen while consuming just 30W thanks to its 1.8GHz Atom D525 and NVIDIA Ion GT218 combo. An empty 2.5-inch removable HDD tray and eSATA port give it potential as a networked storage hub, and an old-school serial port lets it handle home automation controls too. It could also be used as a comms or security terminal, as there's a 1.3MP webcam on board, vesa mounting holes and four USB 2.0 ports. Heck, we'd buy three and rig our whole house up -- were it not for the $800 price tag, the apparently limited availability on Habey USA's underloved Amazon page, and the fact that we like our terminals to show a bit of emotion. Full specs in the PR after the break.

Continue reading Habey USA's 12-inch panel PC brings that rugged look to your home

Habey USA's 12-inch panel PC brings that rugged look to your home originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 24 Jul 2011 11:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12-inch12-inch display12-inchDisplayatomcommericalembeddedhabeyhabey USAHabey USA PPC-6512HabeyUsaHabeyUsaPpc-6512Home AutomationHomeAutomationindustrialintel atomIntelAtomion 2Ion2nvidia ionnvidia ion 2NvidiaIonNvidiaIon2panel PCPanelPcPCPPC-6512ruggedtouchtouch paneltouch panel pcTouchPanelTouchPanelPctouchscreentoughSun, 24 Jul 2011 11:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Sanyo's Mirai Sanzo robot brings the extra emotion your household craves]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/15/sanyos-mirai-sanzo-robot-brings-the-extra-emotion-your-househol/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/15/sanyos-mirai-sanzo-robot-brings-the-extra-emotion-your-househol/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/15/sanyos-mirai-sanzo-robot-brings-the-extra-emotion-your-househol/#comments First we had the spherical drone and now we have the spherical butler. Sanyo's Mirai Sanzo robot won't do housework unfortunately, but it will interpret your voice commands and relay them to your home automation system, just in case you happen to live in the type of wondrous abode depicted after the break. To fulfill its mission as a "communication robot," the WiFi-connected 22cm helper comes with a touchscreen, touch sensors (for switching on and off) and voice recognition -- all powered by an undisclosed version of Android. It can also show seven different emotions by glowing in various colors, making it about three times more expressive than some humans. Mirai Sanzo will be out in Japan any time now, and while we're not sure of the price, we have tried to translate the name. We arrived at "Future Bob", but we're open to other suggestions.

Continue reading Sanyo's Mirai Sanzo robot brings the extra emotion your household craves

Sanyo's Mirai Sanzo robot brings the extra emotion your household craves originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 15 Jul 2011 07:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidbutlerhome automationHomeAutomationJapanmirai sanzoMiraiSanzorobotsanyoSanyo HomesSanyoHomessphericalFri, 15 Jul 2011 07:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Switched On: Light music]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/26/switched-on-light-music/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/26/switched-on-light-music/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/26/switched-on-light-music/#commentsEach week Ross Rubin contributes Switched On, a column about consumer technology.

Last month, Switched On discussed two of the Android expansion initiatives announced at Google's I/O conference -- the relatively easy to execute Android Open Accessory program and the relatively difficult to execute Android@Home initiative. In support of the latter, which would seek to wedge a new home networking standard among wireless systems such as Zigbee, Z-Wave and Insteon.

In making the case for Android@Home, Google showed off a new LED light bulb from Lighting Science Group that included the necessary data radio embedded in the bulb. The advantage versus traditional lighting controls is that it removes the requirement for an electrician (or at least advanced DIYer) to build the radio into the wall plate. NXP Semiconductors has also shown off both compact flourescent and LED bulbs that can be controlled wirelessly via smartphones and other devices. But in a quest to tackle two staples of the smart home in one flip of a switch,, speaker house Artison has teamed up with lighting company Sylvania. to create MusicLites. As its name suggests, MusicLites combines lighting controls and multi-zone distributed audio in in a single product, but is it an approach you'll buy into?

Continue reading Switched On: Light music

Switched On: Light music originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 26 Jun 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>automationcolumnhahome automationHomeAutomationlightlightinglightsmusiclitesswitched onSwitchedOnSun, 26 Jun 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Google 'retires' Health and PowerMeter, lets you save your vitals through 2012]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/24/google-retires-health-and-powermeter-lets-you-save-your-vital/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/24/google-retires-health-and-powermeter-lets-you-save-your-vital/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/24/google-retires-health-and-powermeter-lets-you-save-your-vital/#comments
Remember that Withings blood pressure monitor for iOS that we went hands-on with last week? It integrated with Google Health. The search giant's health management portal also paired with dozens of other services (a heaping handful can be seen in the image above) to aggregate and track all of your data, and share it with family members, friends, and doctors. The service didn't have the widespread impact that Google expected, however, so it's taking Health offline after the clock strikes midnight on January 1, 2012. You'll have another year to download your info, or send it directly to competing services.

Also on the chopping block is PowerMeter, a free energy monitoring tool that pairs with smart power meters and other energy monitoring devices to help users better understand consumption habits and ultimately reduce costs. That project will get the boot from Mountain View on September 16th, but you'll be able to log in to your account to download a CSV file. We imagine Health and PowerMeter are already plotting their trip down south, to get in a few thousand rounds of golf with Video Store at Pebble Beach. Perhaps to be joined by Buzz and Wave, in the not-so-distant future?

Google 'retires' Health and PowerMeter, lets you save your vitals through 2012 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>blood pressureblood pressure monitorBloodPressureBloodPressureMonitorclosesclosinggooglegoogle healthgoogle powermeterGoogleHealthGooglePowermeterhealthheart rateheart rate monitorHeartRateHeartRateMonitorHome AutomationHomeAutomationmedicalpower managementPowerManagementPowerMeterShut DownShutDownwithingsFri, 24 Jun 2011 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Xfinity Home Security makes home monitoring and management Comcastic (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/xfinity-home-security-makes-home-monitoring-and-management-comca/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/xfinity-home-security-makes-home-monitoring-and-management-comca/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/09/xfinity-home-security-makes-home-monitoring-and-management-comca/#comments
It looks like Comcast's trial bubble has been something of a success, and now the company is announcing that its Xfinity Home Security Service will be branching out beyond Houston to arm alarms, dim lamps and keep home automation freaks appraised of sports scores in an additional six markets (including Philadelphia, Portland, Jacksonville, Sarasota/Naples, Chattanooga and Nashville). Powered by iControl Networks' Open Home automation and security platform, packages start at $40 a month and feature live video monitoring, lighting and climate control, burglar and fire alarm monitoring, and more -- via touchscreen interface, web portal, and iPhone app. Now you too can put your family's safety in the same hands that bring Gilligan's Island into your home! Video, PR-palooza after the break.

Continue reading Xfinity Home Security makes home monitoring and management Comcastic (video)

Xfinity Home Security makes home monitoring and management Comcastic (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 09 Jun 2011 18:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>chattanoogacomcasthomehome automationhome securityHomeAutomationHomeSecurityhouseholdhoustonicontrolicontrol networksIcontrolNetworksjacksonvillenaplesnashvilleopen homeOpenHomephiladelphiaportlandsarasptasecurityvideoxfinityxfinity home security serviceXfinityHomeSecurityServiceThu, 09 Jun 2011 18:01:00 EST<![CDATA[ThinkFlood WiFi remote for Android goes beta, but still requires iOS]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/thinkflood-wifi-remote-for-android-goes-beta-but-still-requires/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/thinkflood-wifi-remote-for-android-goes-beta-but-still-requires/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/18/thinkflood-wifi-remote-for-android-goes-beta-but-still-requires/#comments ThinkFlood is best known for its universal remote control systems, but now it might become famous for something totally different: discovering a way to bring peace to the tiresome iOS/Android fanboy wars. Its new beta app for Android provides complete control over the company's RedEye and RedEye Pro products, which in the past were strictly iOS-only. In turn, a RedEye system allows a range of IR-equipped devices in a home to be controlled via WiFi -- so in principle you should now be able to control your home theater and other kit using your Android tablet or smartphone. But here's the twist: users of the beta app will need both an Android device and an iOS device in order to get full functionality, because the Android app can't yet handle configuration. The company insists this limitation will soon be fixed, but we say keep it. If all apps required us to own both platforms, things would be so much more harmonious. Full PR after the break.

[Thanks, Martin]

Continue reading ThinkFlood WiFi remote for Android goes beta, but still requires iOS

ThinkFlood WiFi remote for Android goes beta, but still requires iOS originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 18 May 2011 09:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappfanboyFanboyshome automationhome theatreHomeAutomationHomeTheatreiOSIRredeyeredeyeproremote controlRemoteControlthinkflooduniversal remoteuniversal remote controlUniversalRemoteUniversalRemoteControlWiFiWed, 18 May 2011 09:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Slingbox inventor releases Crestron R2 Control App for Android, teases something big]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/17/slingbox-inventor-releases-crestron-r2-control-app-for-android/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/17/slingbox-inventor-releases-crestron-r2-control-app-for-android/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/17/slingbox-inventor-releases-crestron-r2-control-app-for-android/#comments Own a professionally installed Crestron home automation system? Then check this out mister moneybags. Former Sling boxer, Blake Krikorian, has turned his home automation hobby into a full-fledged Android app ready for download. The R2 Control App will set you back $99 (hey, it's Crestron) from the Android Market and give you control over your 2-Series and 3-series systems from anywhere in the world via WiFi or cellular data networks. At least it will after an authorized Crestron programmer enables it. The app works natively with Mobile Pro / Pro G projects built for Crestron touchscreen or iOS devices and automatically resizes the UI to the native resolution of the Android device you're using.

Great, we guess, but what we find most compelling is what Blake teases about the future. We had a chat with the Slingbox inventor who shares our concerns about the current state of home automation and believes that the industry is "on the brink of something big" that could finally take it to the mass market. Given his entrepreneurial lineage and clear home automation interests, we're more than a bit intrigued by where this might go now that Blake and Google are in the mix.

Continue reading Slingbox inventor releases Crestron R2 Control App for Android, teases something big

Slingbox inventor releases Crestron R2 Control App for Android, teases something big originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 17 May 2011 06:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2-series3-seriesandroidandroid marketAndroidMarketappblake krikorianBlakeKrikoriancrestronhome automationHomeAutomationid8id8 groupid8 Group ProductionsId8GroupId8GroupProductionsmobile promobile pro gMobileProMobileProGslingboxteaserTue, 17 May 2011 06:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Editorial: Android@Home is the best worst thing that could happen to home automation]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/editorial-android-home-is-the-best-worst-thing-that-could-happe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/editorial-android-home-is-the-best-worst-thing-that-could-happe/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/editorial-android-home-is-the-best-worst-thing-that-could-happe/#comments As the resident Engadget home automation nerd, Google's Android@Home announcement rocked my little low-powered RF world yesterday. Seeing a brand like Google get behind home automation is the stuff I've been dreaming about ever since Nokia dipped a toe into the tepid Z-Wave waters back in 2008. Unfortunately, Nokia abandoned its Home Control Center ambitions shortly thereafter, leaving the industry in the hands of such consumer powerhouses as Zensys, Sigma Designs, ExpressControls, AMX Corp, Control 4, Echelon, and Jung. Heard of them? No, no you haven't, and that's my point.

Home automation has long suffered from the lack of a consumer-centric approach. Consumer electronics companies have almost universally come around to the new mantra of user experience. Most companies have finally awoken from their deep eighties slumber to realize that a single product can no longer dominate an industry on its own -- the age of the Walkman is over. For success, a product must encompass great software, great services, hardware that just works, and stellar support when it doesn't. In short, the user experience is what sets the product apart. Home automators have yet to realize this but Google's announcement could force the issue.

Continue reading Editorial: Android@Home is the best worst thing that could happen to home automation

Editorial: Android@Home is the best worst thing that could happen to home automation originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 May 2011 08:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>android at homeAndroidAtHomeeditorialfeaturefeaturesgoogle iogoogle io 2011GoogleIoGoogleIo2011home automationHomeAutomationhubproject tungstenProjectTungstenz-wavezigbeeWed, 11 May 2011 08:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Lighting Science demos Android @ Home bulbs, promises dead-simple home automation (hands-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/lighting-science-demos-android-home-bulbs-promises-dead-simpl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/lighting-science-demos-android-home-bulbs-promises-dead-simpl/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/11/lighting-science-demos-android-home-bulbs-promises-dead-simpl/#comments 'Tis amazing what a partnership with Google can do. Unless you're a frequent patron of Home Depot, there's a slim chance you'd ever heard of Lighting Science prior to this week's opening I/O keynote. Now, said company is leading the Android @ Home charge, and based on what we learned yesterday at its booth, we're feeling better than ever about home automation's chances in the mainstream market. Company representatives noted that this Google-led mesh networking solution -- which beams out commands on the 900MHz frequency band -- is the first HA solution that's truly designed to be ultra-low-cost and easy to implement. Compared to Z-Wave and Zigbee, there's far less technical expertise needed to start automating things in your home, and there's no need to take out a second mortgage to open your garage door with your handset. Oh, and there's zero chance anything fails due to congestion on the 2.4GHz band.

We pressed the company on pricing details, and it stated that the wirelessly enabled light shown above would be priced "at parity" with the non-wireless counterpart available today. At last check, that puts a single bulb at around $30. In order to make these kinds of devices compatible with existing Android phones and tablets, a couple of WiFi-to-900MHz adapters will be available. From Lighting Science alone, you'll soon see a light switch, security lamp and a regular wall wart on sale to handle the transfers. In other words, you can pick up a dirt-cheap plug, toss it in your guest room, and immediately give your Nexus One the ability to dictate Android @ Home products. Not too shabby, but what does this mean for the broader industry?

Gallery: Lighting Science demos Android @ Home bulbs: hands-on at Google I/O

Continue reading Lighting Science demos Android @ Home bulbs, promises dead-simple home automation (hands-on)

Lighting Science demos Android @ Home bulbs, promises dead-simple home automation (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 May 2011 06:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>900mhzADKAndroid at HomeAndroidAtHomegooglegoogle iogoogle io 2011GoogleIoGoogleIo2011hands-onhome automationHomeAutomationlightlightingLighting ScienceLightingSciencevideoWed, 11 May 2011 06:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Electronic House crowns iOS-equipped dwelling 2011 Home of the Year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/electronic-house-crowns-ios-equipped-dwelling-2011-home-of-the-y/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/electronic-house-crowns-ios-equipped-dwelling-2011-home-of-the-y/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/03/electronic-house-crowns-ios-equipped-dwelling-2011-home-of-the-y/#comments
 Electronic House just announced its pick for 2011 Home of the Year, and from the look of things, this iOS-enabled abode has the stuff to put your robotic butler out of work. The mammoth craftsman's interiors, designed by OCD poster boy Jeff Lewis, were automated by HD Media Systems using the Savant app. Everything from lighting to shower temperature are controlled using wall-mounted iPads or a series of unencumbered iOS devices. A pre-programmed "party button" immediately adjusts lighting and temperature, and bumps music to the 15 different Sonance in-ceiling speaker zones while displaying a slideshow on monitors dispersed throughout the house. Among the extravagant extras at work here are a switch in the master closet for flipping on the iron in the laundry room, a chandelier that flickers when it's time to switch out the toilet paper, and a virtual butler that warns of impending visitors. Looks to us like Rosie the Robot's days are numbered. Check out the source link for more automated overkill from this year's runners up.

Electronic House crowns iOS-equipped dwelling 2011 Home of the Year originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 03 May 2011 07:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011appleelectronic houseElectronicHousehomehome automationhome of the yearHomeAutomationHomeOfTheYearhotyhouseiOSiPadiPhoneipod touchIpodTouchlivingluxuryMacsavantTue, 03 May 2011 07:28:00 EST<![CDATA[EnOcean's home automation sensors communicate over TCP/IP, play nice with smartphone apps]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/enoceans-home-automation-sensors-communicate-over-tcp-ip-play/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/enoceans-home-automation-sensors-communicate-over-tcp-ip-play/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/02/enoceans-home-automation-sensors-communicate-over-tcp-ip-play/#comments
EnOcean has long been on our radar thanks to its inexpensive light switches and thermostats, which harvest energy from solar cells and thermal differentials and boast peel-and-stick backs for easy installation. Now, they're getting hooked up for TCP/IP communication, which means in addition to talking to each other, homeowners will be able to control them using any garden-variety web-connected device. The setup will require a small gateway, at which point you can monitor rooms using desktop widgets and mobile apps such as Can2Go that are compatible with EnOcean's radio protocol (ERP). So far, the company's mostly made headway in retail stores and office buildings, but if it has its way, it could be coming to hospitals, college dorms, and (duh) your home.

Continue reading EnOcean's home automation sensors communicate over TCP/IP, play nice with smartphone apps

EnOcean's home automation sensors communicate over TCP/IP, play nice with smartphone apps originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 02 May 2011 14:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Can2Goenergy efficiencyenergy efficientEnergyEfficiencyEnergyEfficientEnOceanEnOcean radio protocolEnOcean sensorEnOcean sensorsEnoceanRadioProtocolEnoceanSensorEnoceanSensorsERPhome automationhome controlHomeAutomationHomeControlMon, 02 May 2011 14:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Thinkflood intros RedEye Pro networked home automation controller]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/thinkflood-intros-redeye-pro-networked-home-automation-controlle/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/thinkflood-intros-redeye-pro-networked-home-automation-controlle/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/05/thinkflood-intros-redeye-pro-networked-home-automation-controlle/#comments Talk about slamming down on the left of the wheel. Quite frankly, we haven't seen a veering this drastic since ZeeVee decided to shelve its consumer plans in favor of more professionally oriented wares, but we're willing to give Thinkflood the benefit of the doubt here. The same folks made famous for their IR-beaming iPhone remote dongle have just come forward with something completely out of the ordinary -- the RedEye Pro. The company claims that this newfangled A/V accessory works exactly like the original, attaching to one's home network in order to control a gaggle of devices. Everything from your iPhone to your PC can be dictated, and with eight dual-purpose 3.5mm infrared emitter / contact closure sensor ports, all but the hugest of mansions should be taken care of. We're guessing that the install is only for the brave (and the jobless, given the time away from work that you'll need), but it certainly sounds like an appealing option for those who've grown tired of getting up to activate their HVAC unit. Oh, and if you're curious about the original RedEye, you'll be pleased to know that Thinkflood just shot out the gen2 today; it'll retail at $199 and offering a newly added IR-out port for those who keep their components in a cabinet or rack. Details galore in the source links below.

Continue reading Thinkflood intros RedEye Pro networked home automation controller

Thinkflood intros RedEye Pro networked home automation controller originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 05 Apr 2011 06:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>home automationHomeAutomationnetworked home automation controllerNetworkedHomeAutomationControllerredeyeredeye gen2redeye proRedeyeGen2RedeyeProThinkfloodTue, 05 Apr 2011 06:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Kinect hacked for home automation, does your mood lighting for you (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/11/kinect-hacked-for-home-automation-does-your-mood-lighting-for-y/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/11/kinect-hacked-for-home-automation-does-your-mood-lighting-for-y/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/11/kinect-hacked-for-home-automation-does-your-mood-lighting-for-y/#comments Microsoft's Kinect has become quite the hacking hotbed -- the fields of medicine, music, and even shadow puppeteering have all benefitted from the peripheral's incredible versatility. And now, to the delight of home automation nerds everywhere, an enterprising young hacker has rigged a Kinect to automate the lighting in his home. By positioning the camera bar in a corner to track his movements, connecting it to the automation controller, and coding on / off commands, he's able to control the lights throughout his geektastic domicile. The automation logic then turns on the lights when entering the room, localizes them according to location, and turns them off upon leaving. One less thing to worry about -- here's hoping a method for spotting our perpetually misplaced keys is in version 2.0. Vid's after the break.

Continue reading Kinect hacked for home automation, does your mood lighting for you (video)

Kinect hacked for home automation, does your mood lighting for you (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 11 Mar 2011 11:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hackhackshome automationHomeAutomationkinectkinect hackKinectHackmicrosoftmodmodsmotion captureMotionCapturevideoxbox 360Xbox360Fri, 11 Mar 2011 11:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Square Connect SQ Blaster and SQ Remote review: Home automation, unified]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/25/square-connect-sq-blaster-and-sq-remote-review-home-automation/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/25/square-connect-sq-blaster-and-sq-remote-review-home-automation/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/25/square-connect-sq-blaster-and-sq-remote-review-home-automation/#comments Having already taken our first feverish steps down the path of an automated home, we figured it was time to try and integrate the home entertainment system with the household lighting. Our goal coming into this review was to sit down on the sofa and hit a single button on an old, unused iPhone 3G to automatically dim the lights, fire up the 5.1 sound, flip on the media streamer, and ignite the projector. To accomplish this seemingly monumental task we installed a WiFi-enabled SQ Blaster in the TV cabinet, a puck-shaped IR blaster from Square Connect that communicates with MiOS home control gateways like Mi Casa Verde's Vera. So, did we succeed? Did we achieve the ultimate in home-owner nerdvana? You'd better believe it. Read on to find out how.

Continue reading Square Connect SQ Blaster and SQ Remote review: Home automation, unified

Square Connect SQ Blaster and SQ Remote review: Home automation, unified originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 14:43:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appapplehome automationHomeAutomationinfrarediosirir blasterIrBlasterprogrammable remoteProgrammableRemoteremote controlRemoteControlreviewsq blastersq remoteSqBlasterSqRemotesquare connectSquareConnectvideoz-waveFri, 25 Feb 2011 14:43:00 EST<![CDATA[Dreamplug is the low-powered, lilliputian PC for people with really boring dreams]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/03/dreamplug-is-the-low-powered-lilliputian-pc-for-people-with-rea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/03/dreamplug-is-the-low-powered-lilliputian-pc-for-people-with-rea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/03/dreamplug-is-the-low-powered-lilliputian-pc-for-people-with-rea/#comments
Sure, tiny-ass PCs are nothing new, but as power increases and prices drop, things definitely get more interesting. Take, for instance, Globalscale's DreamPlug: your hard earned $150 will get you a 1.2GHz Marvell Sheeva ARM processor, 512MB of DDR 2 (800MHz) RAM, 1GB storage, not one but two gigabit ethernet ports, two USB 2.0 ports, an eSATA 2.0 port, SD card slot, Wi-Fi b/g, Bluetooth, and a headphone jack. And it all sits in the plug itself! And it draws a scant five watts of power. Of course, this isn't gonna replace your trusty desktop, but we're sure you can think of all sorts of clever uses for this bad boy. Set to start shipping sometime this month, hit the source link to get started.

Dreamplug is the low-powered, lilliputian PC for people with really boring dreams originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 Feb 2011 15:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dreamplugglobalscaleglobalscale technologiesGlobalscaleTechnologieshome automationHomeAutomationmarvellmicro pcMicroPcmini desktopmini pcMiniDesktopMiniPcThu, 03 Feb 2011 15:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Intel and Capgemini to develop tablet for home energy management]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/01/intel-and-cap-gemini-to-develop-tablet-for-home-energy-managemen/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/01/intel-and-cap-gemini-to-develop-tablet-for-home-energy-managemen/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/01/intel-and-cap-gemini-to-develop-tablet-for-home-energy-managemen/#comments If Google and Microsoft can get in on the home energy management wave then hey, why not Intel? Chipzilla is teaming up with Capgemini SA to create a "tablet-style computer" that lets humans control the power consumed by their appliances. Later, presumably when there are enough of these smart devices on the grid, it could allow utilities to more intelligently manage its electricity allocation. According to Intel's Joe Jensen, general manager for low-power embedded processors, "energy is a big part of our project to extend the fringe of computing out to the next thing." Indeed, under Paul Otellini's lead, Intel is targeting fuel pumps at the corner gas station, advertising signs, and even exercise equipment as it seeks opportunities beyond traditional computing devices -- a market Intel believes to be worth about $10 billion. The goal of the Intel / Capgemini initiative is to offer a full-service smart-grid solution, according to Steven Harris, head of smart home services at Capgemini. Mind you, Intel's involvement shouldn't come as a total surprise here, seeing as how it was showing off wall panels for real-time utility management in the -- groan -- "digital crib" way back at CES in 2010. That's one such device, pictured above.

Update: Corrected spelling from "Cap Gemini" (as Businessweek presented it) to "Capgemini" -- this isn't 2004 anymore. We also managed to unearth the official press release announcing Intel's Home Energy Dashboard reference design built around the Atom processor. You'll find that after the break.

Continue reading Intel and Capgemini to develop tablet for home energy management

Intel and Capgemini to develop tablet for home energy management originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 06:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atomcap geminiCap gemini saCapGeminiCapGeminiSaelectricityelectricity gridElectricityGridenvironmenthome automationhome energyhome energy dashboardhome energy managementHomeAutomationHomeEnergyHomeEnergyDashboardHomeEnergyManagementIn-Home DisplayIn-homeDisplayintelintel atomIntelAtomJoe JensenJoeJensenpartnershippowerpower gridpower managementPowerGridPowerManagementreference designReferenceDesignSteven HarrisStevenHarristabletTue, 01 Feb 2011 06:35:00 EST<![CDATA[APX Alarm becomes Vivint as it expands into Z-Wave home automation]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/01/apx-alarm-become-vivint-as-it-expands-into-z-wave-home-automatio/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/01/apx-alarm-become-vivint-as-it-expands-into-z-wave-home-automatio/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/01/apx-alarm-become-vivint-as-it-expands-into-z-wave-home-automatio/#comments Heard of APX Alarm Security Solution? Probably not. But that's ok, it's par for the course when discussing home automation, a market segment mostly ignored by the big boys of consumer electronics. Today APX is making a grand entrance into home automation thanks to a $443 million investment by Goldman Sachs. The company's new lineup of Z-Wave-based automatic door locks, video surveillance, lighting and small appliance controls will be sold under the new Vivint identity. Better yet, the new Z-Wave modules are designed to work with the APX Go!control alarm panels already purchased by some 170,000 customers, according to APX. Look for products to be generally available on March 1st.

Continue reading APX Alarm becomes Vivint as it expands into Z-Wave home automation

APX Alarm becomes Vivint as it expands into Z-Wave home automation originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 01 Feb 2011 00:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>apxapx alarmapx alarm security solutionapxalarmApxAlarmSecuritySolutionhome automationHomeAutomationvivintz-waveTue, 01 Feb 2011 00:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Control4, Sub-Zero get in on the home automation game]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/control4-sub-zero-get-in-on-the-home-automation-game/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/control4-sub-zero-get-in-on-the-home-automation-game/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/control4-sub-zero-get-in-on-the-home-automation-game/#comments While brands like LG, Samsung, and Kenmore all showed off their own special brand of Jetsonian appliances at CES this year, Sub-Zero was close by touting a stable of 30 automation-ready products and a partnership with Control4 that could make them a contender for home automation domination. Sub-Zero's ZigBee-based system uses preexisting serial ports (initially installed for diagnostic purposes) to connect users to appliances via touchscreens, smart phones, and other enabled devices. The system lacks full control of potentially dangerous appliances like the oven, instead acting as an alert system when, say, your turkey is done roasting, but it does grant complete access to things like your refrigerator or freezer. Other systems might sport increased functionality, like LG's Thinq, which allows users to set oven temperatures remotely, and Samsung's fridge, which lets you tweet from a built-in touchscreen, but Sub-Zero is hoping a second-quarter release will put them at the head of the pack. We'll see if a head start makes a difference in the glacial appliance market, when Samsung rolls out its smart refrigerator this May and Kenmore's system comes to fruition in 2012.

Control4, Sub-Zero get in on the home automation game originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Jan 2011 13:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applianceappliancesautomated homeAutomatedHomeconnected homeConnectedHomecontrol4Home AutomationHomeAutomationkitchenkitchensovenovensrefrigeratorrefrigeratorsSamsungRf4289smart appliancesmart appliancesSmartApplianceSmartAppliancessub zerosub-zeroSub-zero appliancesSub-zeroAppliancesSubZerowirelesszigbeeFri, 21 Jan 2011 13:44:00 EST<![CDATA[LG's Thinq automated oven, refrigerator, and washer / dryer are the future now (hands-on)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/09/lgs-thinq-automated-oven-refrigerator-and-washer-dryer-are/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/09/lgs-thinq-automated-oven-refrigerator-and-washer-dryer-are/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/09/lgs-thinq-automated-oven-refrigerator-and-washer-dryer-are/#comments
Ah, the connected home... the ultimate Jetsonian fantasy that refuses to come true. LG's doing its best to change that with its Thinq lineup of connected appliances announced and demonstrated for the first time here in Las Vegas. The details of connectivity and interoperability are scarce but we do know that the appliances support both WiFi and ZigBee connectivity in order to communicate with each other, your in-home smart meter, and with smartphones when outside of the home. So far, LG has announced four Thinq devices including a vacuum, fridge, oven, and washer and dryer pair. That's a pretty strong foundation to build from especially if your home is already equipped with ZigBee devices like automated light switches, window controllers, and locks. Each LG appliance brings a rather lengthy list of features many of which are accessible remotely on a smartphone app (Android was demonstrated). It's just hard to fathom how useful they are without a humanoid robot capable of moving the finished wash into the dryer or putting the porkroast in the oven. And while being able to look up the contents of your fridge as you enter the supermarket sounds compelling, knowing that the owner has to manage the list manually (there's no UPC code scanner and RFID is still just a dream) tarnishes our enthusiasm quite a bit. Still, Thinq is definitely a step in the right direction. Watch LG make its pitch after the break.

Gallery: LG's Thinq automated oven, refridgerator, and washer / dryer are the future now (hands-on)

Continue reading LG's Thinq automated oven, refrigerator, and washer / dryer are the future now (hands-on)

LG's Thinq automated oven, refrigerator, and washer / dryer are the future now (hands-on) originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 09 Jan 2011 19:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cesces 2011ces2011dryerhands-onhome automationHomeAutomationlgovenrefridgeratorthinqvacuumwasherzigbeeSun, 09 Jan 2011 19:32:00 EST