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| iHome |
| This futuristic house is operated by an internet-accessible control system. |
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Imagine activating your security system, switching on your air conditioner or unlocking the front door of your home from the car, the office or the other side of the world. This is the idea behind iHome. It's a futuristic house operated by a unique control system that is accessible via the Internet.
Cisco Systems has joined forces with Bovis Lend Lease, AAPT, the NSW Government and leading appliance manufacturers, to develop the house of the future. Nicknamed the iHome, the property uses progressive Internet technology to change the way people live.
According to Cisco, the iHome is the next essential utility — like water and electricity. As more people choose to work from home, they become dependent on Internet technology and will need to utilise this from home.
Of course, people working in an office can benefit from iHome too. The click of a button will open your front door so the cleaners can enter or your groceries can be delivered. On cold winter nights, you can activate your heating system before leaving the office, and arrive home to a cosy house.
iHome owners have a personal internet site (security access only) to control their homes from anywhere in the world. From this site, home owners can access a range of functions. It is possible to access your security system, open blinds, lock and unlock doors and even switch on/off the TV or electric blanket.
The iHome will be on display until April 2001, before the key is handed over to the highest bidder. Identical apartments (without the iHome technology) are currently selling for $750,000.
The display home is three storeys and is equipped with a computer and video conferencing facilities. There's a small garden and courtyard with an Internet controlled irrigation system. Scattered through the house are keypads that can be used to access the home's many features.
The house contains many cameras, which are always taping. Their main function is security, but they can also be used to monitor certain rooms. For example, you can check on the baby without physically entering the nursery.
It currently costs $75 per month to access this broadband service (where available), but the price is expected to drop as competition increases. There are about 100,000 Australian homes "on-line" and by 2005 it's predicted 50% of households will utilise this technology.
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More Info
For more information:
Ph: 1800 244 663
www.ihome.com.au
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Disclaimer
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