Microsoft gets into the home automation with Insteon

by Intern

Microsoft announced a partnership with Insteon today, along with some big plans to fully incorporate the popular home automation network into its ecosystem. Starting June 1, an enhanced version of the Insteon app with exclusive features will be made available for Windows Phone 8 devices, along with any tablet, laptop, or desktop running Windows 8.1 .

Windows-exclusive features in the new version of Insteon’s app will include complete Live Tile integration capable of offering status updates for multiple devices at once on the start screen of devices running Windows 8.1.

Insteon is also promising enhanced camera support that will allow users to view full-screen feeds, view multiple feeds at once, or use a camera without needing to install an Insteon Hub.

Insteon's business kit

Insteon is also promising enhanced camera support that will allow users to view full-screen feeds, view multiple feeds at once, or use a camera without needing to install an Insteon Hub.

Insteon is also touting a new Visitor Mode that will provide restricted system access to children or guests, as well as an improved dashboard view and multihouse support, which will enable users to control multiple homes or businesses from a single account.

Though the Live Tile integration will obviously remain exclusive to Windows, Insteon’s team tells us that they expect the rest of the new features to roll out to Android and iOS users at some point in the future — though they wouldn’t commit to a timeline.

Developed in Irvine, California, Insteon is a fee-free home automation network that’s long been popular with hobbyists. The Insteon network combines a wireless radio frequency with existing power line connections to create a fast, reliable, dual-band connection. Insteon’s product line includes over 200 sensors, switches, cameras, and other devices capable of monitoring and automating things around the home.

Blogs