For 26 percent of Canada's population, in Ottawa's densely populated Golden Horseshoe, the future got a little bit closer Wednesday afternoon, as Internet and wireless service provider Rogers announced the expansion of the Smart Home Monitoring service into the area.
Rogers started the Smart Home Monitoring program in August 2011 for certain customers, but Wednesday’s announcement opens the door wide for new participants interested in trying out the latest home automation technologies.
Those technologies include what have become the contemporary mainstays of the smart home movement, including home security, remote control of doors and lights and advanced energy consumption personalization, which should be very popular in the Great White North.
"We're thrilled to now offer Rogers Smart Home Monitoring to residents of the Golden Horseshoe," said Ian Pattinson, vice president and general manager of Rogers Smart Home Monitoring. "Since we launched a year and a half ago, our customers continue to discover new system features that keep their homes and families secure while helping them better manage their daily lives for ultimate peace of mind."
All of the features are tied together in one central control tablet provided by Rogers, though features can also be controlled with smartphone and tablet apps, and by websites in any browser.
The release lists hypothetical uses it suggests for customers to become more connected with their homes than ever: detecting leaks to prevent floods, getting an email or text alert to know when their kids get home from school and setting a smart thermostat to get their house (or igloo?) nice and toasty before they get home from work.
"Canadians are among the most connected people in the world and are looking for seamless technology that complements their busy lifestyles," Pattinson said. "For nearly two years, Rogers Smart Home Monitoring has enabled customers to stay connected to their homes and families with a next generation, innovative product that leverages Rogers proven networks and communication expertise."
Wednesday's launch brings these services to customers in the communities of Oakville, Lincoln, West Lincoln, Grimsby, Hamilton and the Greater Hamilton area, Burlington, Niagara Falls, Thorold, Pelham, Niagara-on-the-Lake, St. Catharines, Wainfleet, Welland, Fort Erie and Port Colborne.
Customers in those communities are encouraged to sign up for a free in-home assessment at www.rogers.com/smarthome.
