After testing its Digital Life security and home automation service last year in trials, AT&T announced at the Consumer Electronics Show that it will officially launch in eight U.S. markets in March, with up to 50 additional market rollouts for the remainder of 2013. Cisco will provide AT&T with the control panel and remote monitoring capabilities.

Remote monitoring features will allow users to manage and control various devices in their home, as well as view live video, via any Web-connected device, regardless of broadband or wireless provider. The system features Z-Wave, Wi-Fi and 3G communications standards, providing a flexible, open platform for home control.

The system signifies Cisco’s advocacy of “The Internet of Everything,” which was a common theme throughout CES, where “dumb” such as water bottles, kitchen sinks, a child’s toy—basically anything—can seamlessly connect to and share information via the Internet.

The Digital Life system is wireless, all-digital and UL-certified. Connected devices can include surveillance cameras; window and door sensors; smoke, carbon monoxide and motion and glassbreak sensors; door locks; thermostats; moisture sensors and shut-off valves; and appliance and lighting control modules.

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Lisa Montgomery - Contributing Writer

Lisa Montgomery has been writing about home technology for 15 years, with a focus on the impact of electronics on a modern lifestyle.