Move over ADT. AT&T announced it is offering a home security service that lets consumers remotely adjust their home’s thermostat, lighting and security cameras via a computer or smartphone. Called Digital Life, the service also provides ADT-like 24-hour security call-center monitoring. 

 

Bloomberg reports AT&T is just the next in a series of service providers looking to shore up revenue via smart home technology, as Verizon and Comcast already offer similar services. The new service, which can include video cameras, sensors, lighting controls and thermostats, is built on hardware AT&T acquired along with Xanboo in 2010. Pricing was not disclosed.

 

Yankee Group Research VP Brian Partridge comments

 

“Layering home management and security services on top of a home broadband IP network can provide a natural extension for the segment of the population who can afford to invest in such things.  Providers like AT&T can certify specialized devices onto their network, roll out trucks and personnel to get things set up, and remotely manage all the security and network gear from afar. That said, specialists like ADT have built a trusted brand in security services over a period of several years.  The challenge for AT&T and any other operator that wants to play in security is to prove it too can be trusted in such a critical area.  Home security is a place where one poor customer experience can mean the difference between life and death.”