AT&T Inc. says it will expand into the residential video monitoring business so that customers can stay more connected to their property while away from home.
The company announced its new service will allow customers to view real-time video on their Cingular wireless phones, handhelds or computers. The IP-based service also allows subscribers to control lights remotely or receive text message alerts on motion, door and window movement.
“Keeping track of home activities is increasingly challenging today, as we spend more time on the road and on the run,” says Susan Johnson, senior vice president of Business Development at AT&T. “This service is ideal for a wide range of potential applications, from keeping an eye on children, elderly parents or pets to monitoring a second home or vacation home.”
The service is available to customers of Cingular Wireless services, and can be accessed by a Cingular wireless phone or PDA supporting Internet access and Java, as well as most broadband-enabled PCs.
All monitoring equipment is controlled via an integrated Web-based portal. Users can access these live video feeds and reports from the portal, and establish customized instructions for the service to provide alerts or to take action under specific conditions.
AT&T will charge $199 for the starter kit, including a pan-and-tilt IP camera, two power cords, wireless door and window sensor, wireless gateway to connect equipment throughout the home and software. A monthly service charge of $9.95 also applies.