CHICAGO — This weekend AT&T is opening a 10,000 square-foot flagship store on Chicago’s Michigan Avenue where for the first time the company will offer a retail demo of its Digital Life services. Along with the product portfolio’s home security features, customers can see how the services will enable them to adjust the temperature, raise and lower a window shade, and control their home using AT&T wireless devices.
The IP-based Digital Life “ecosystem” will include professionally installed and monitored window and door sensors, CCTV cameras, smoke alarms, carbon monoxide (CO) detectors, motion and glass-break sensors, thermostats, water shut-off valves, door locks, plus the ability to remotely turn off appliances.
AT&T previously announced Digital Life would eventually be marketed nationally at its more than 2,000 retail stores where consumers will be able to test and experience the system’s user interface as well as the various service offerings. The services will also be available for purchase on the company’s Web site.
The Chicago store is divided into distinct areas that focus on consumer’s getting the most out of their gear at home, during work, for entertainment, and in their cars. In each zone, employees with specific areas of expertise will help customers with the latest software and services for their smartphone or tablet. Among its highlights, the store includes a fitness section, plus an all-electric Nissan Leaf features a prototype service that can track the speed, location and driving habits of teenage drivers.
“Customers will not only be able to interact with and purchase our products, but they will also experience the forefront of evolving wireless technology and see how AT&T is leading it,” says Paul Roth, president of AT&T retail sales and service.
