AT&T debuts Digital Life in Chicago area
AT&T today, April 26, launches its Digital Life services, which allows homeowners to remotely secure their home or garage, adjust the temperature, or even shut off the water in an emergency, all by using their smartphone, tablet or PC.
The Chicago region is one of 15 markets in the first rollout of Digital Life. The 24/7 service is expected to be in about 50 markets by the end of this year.
“Anybody who wants to protect their home or loved ones will be interested in this service,” said Dave Fine, AT&T vice president and general manager, who is based in Hoffman Estates. “It can range from the soccer Mom to the grandpa and grandma or even a single person. Just as long as they have high-speed Internet, this will work.”
In fact, Digital Life will work with high-speed Internet from any service, and allows homeowners to retain that choice, Fine said.
But having a smart house will cost you. Digital Life equipment and monthly fees can vary widely, depending on the selected package and any additional features. The two main packages are:
Ÿ Simple Security: includes 24/7 home monitoring, 24-hour battery backup, a wireless keypad, keychain remote, recessed sensors and an indoor siren for $29.99 a month plus $149.99 for equipment and installation.
Ÿ Smart Security: includes Simple Security plus a choice of three of the following features: motion sensor, carbon monoxide sensor, glass break sensor, smoke sensor or takeover kit. This begins at $39.99 a month plus $249.99 for equipment and installation.
If a customer takes the Smart Security, they have more decisions to make that have additional costs. Additions include a live video package, an energy package to control appliances, a door package to allow someone into the home or keep them out and a water detection package that can shut off the home's main water source in an emergency.
The Smart Security package and all the trimmings and equipment would cost about $1,100 plus $75 monthly monitoring subscription, Fine said.
Also, installation times can vary, possibly 4 hours or more, depending on how complex the package and the customer's property are.
“Right now Digital Life is not part of a bundle, but we may do that later,” Fine said.
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