AT&T Develops Smart Home Security Business

After hinting at opportunities in the automation and security markets, AT&T is just about ready to enter the fray.

At CTIA on Monday, Ma Bell is announcing AT&T Digital Life, its competitor to ADT and other security services. The idea is that AT&T installs a home base unit that taps AT&T’s cellular networks and can connect via Wi-Fi and other methods to any number of devices in the house, from cameras and window sensors to locks, thermostats, appliances and motion detectors.

The company plans to have trials of the service in Atlanta and Dallas this summer. During the trial, customers can use their own wired broadband to connect to their system and then remotely control the system from phones, tablets or PCs.

“We’re planning a unique suite of services, from start to finish, that will give homeowners control of their property and their possessions through an easy to navigate user interface,” AT&T Senior VP Kevin Petersen said in a statement.