CES: ADT takes security high-tech

Global security firm ADT unveiled a range of new product innovations and partnerships at CES in Las Vegas this week.

Security firm ADT is best-known for its home and business protection and security services. But, at the 2014 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas this week, it highlighted the use of high-tech in protecting both people and digital assets.

‚”As a pioneer in the home security and automation space, ADT is focused on evolving the security industry by developing new ways for consumers to integrate our products seamlessly into their everyday lives,‚” said Arthur Ordu√±a, senior vice president and chief innovation officer for ADT. ‚”This is an important strategic shift for ADT, as we are no longer solely protecting a home or business, we’re now protecting people and their digital assets.‚”

Enhancements to the ADT Pulse home automation system included the introduction of a hands-free voice application that adds convenience and control for users: a sleek wireless control panel with a touch-friendly user interface: and new features that offer users the ability to control garage doors, ceiling fans and large appliances remotely via the ADT Pulse smartphone app.

The new products and services include:

ADT Pulse Voice App: ADT Pulse Voice app offers the hands-free convenience of using voice commands to control nearly all areas of the home in the Pulse ecosystem, including lights, thermostats, door locks, small appliances and security systems. ADT Pulse Voice also responds to user’s vocal commands and provides auditory feedback on system status and confirmation of actions.

ADT Pulse Wireless Platform: The ADT Pulse Wireless Platform features a sleek design with a touch-friendly user interface. The wireless control panel manages all ADT Pulse controlled devices such as lights, thermostats, locks, and small appliances. The ADT Pulse Wireless Platform is designed to deliver a non-invasive and seamless installation experience for homeowners, reducing installation time by half and avoiding any in-wall wiring.

ADT Pulse Remote Garage Door Control: To help ensure security and control at all access points of the home, ADT Pulse will feature remote garage door controls by incorporating leading technology developed by Linear LLC. This new feature will enable users to secure and control their garage door via the ADT Pulse smartphone app from around the corner or around the world.

Canopy App: Building on the expertise of ADT home security services, the Canopy mobile application for iOS and Android provides users added personal protection and networking while on-the-go. Canopy enables users to identify the whereabouts of and communicate with friends and family members in a designated virtual circle. Additionally, the integrated ADT Chaperone feature provides a direct line to ADT monitoring centers anytime and anywhere. ADT Chaperone is a subscription-based feature within the Canopy app that provides added protection in situations such as entering a dark parking garage or walking alone across campus at night.

ADT Pulse Voice and Canopy are designed for iOS and Android, and will be available for download via the iTunes App Store or Android Google Play.

ADT and McAfee: Starting in 2014, US consumers will be able to purchase a security plan that will protect their homes and belongings as well as their digital devices and data. ADT and data protection brand McAfee, part of Intel, say they are both committed to combining both existing and conceptual technology to further bridge the gap between physical and digital security, and create new products and services that will offer consumers low-touch, automated connections between their ADT platform and McAfee-protected devices.

ADT and Ford Motor Company: In 2014, the ADT Pulse app will become compatible with Ford SYNC AppLink, enabling drivers of equipped Ford vehicles to control aspects of the home, such as opening a garage door or turning down the thermostat, from their vehicle using voice commands.

ADT and Ideal Life: Since their announcement at CES in 2013, ADT has partnered with Ideal Life and the two will continue to support the ADT Health platform with real-time health management services. Customers, as well as caregivers and medical providers will be able to monitor and track health and wellness.

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