Recently there has been a flurry of activity in the home automation market from mobile and cable service providers. AT&T, Verizon and Motorola have each purchased or invested in home automation companies such as Xanboo and 4Home. Apple and Microsoft have also displayed interest in this emerging technology.

What does this mean for home automation?

Right now, there are a few key players that dominate the industry. Crestron, Vantage, Control4, AMX, and HAI create some of the most widely used technologies for automated systems. Will these companies be able to keep up with the powerful brands of AT&T and Verizon? It depends.

Microsoft and IBM have attempted the transition into home automation before but with little success. Normally an automated home system only appeals to and is acquired by more affluent clientele. Is it possible to create home automation technology that is not only affordable but also compatible with more modest lifestyles? Another factor to consider is that most automation systems require custom installation and a knowledgeable technician to implement. Will this new technology be streamlined enough for an efficient and inexpensive installation?

There are a few ways in which it seems that these established communication companies may be onto something. As energy prices continue to be unpredictable and inevitably rise, people may soon find it advantageous to more closely monitor their energy usage. A system such as this could operate in conjunction with energy providers for more efficient resource distribution. It could also be useful in regard to home security by allowing a customer to monitor the home through a smart phone with access to in-home camera systems. These are possible directions that home automation systems may take in order to be useful for the average individual.

Home automation is an extremely specialized industry. It is not as simple as connecting a wire to provide cable television or installing a phone jack. The technological advances that the industry will have to make to become a common feature in most homes are huge. On the other hand, it is impossible to know the route that automated home systems will take in the hands of companies that dominate industries such as smart phone and computer technology. Their challenge will not only be how to make it easy to use and affordable for the average customer, but also to create a product that people decide is necessary for their everyday lives.

At Mezuri Systems, we already have the knowledge and expertise to handle such projects. Our core belief is that home automation systems belong in every home and should be affordable enough to provide real benefits to the customer.

For more on this topic follow the following links:

Home automation heats up--will energy services follow?

AT&T to Acquire Smart Home Startup Xanboo