According to a recent report by The Wall Street Journal, Apple, Microsoft and Google are all vying for the attention of id8 Group R2 Studios Inc., a startup that has been flying under the radar in the tech industry. R2 Studios is working on home automation software for mobile devices, which has caught the attention of the big three tech giants.
Why Home Automation?
Home automation is the next logical step in adding value to portable devices. With location, social and intelligent assistant features already built into gadgets powered by Android and iOS, home automation offers a new layer of use value that can tie together multiple aspects of a user’s life. R2’s first project is an Android app that allows users to control their heating and lighting systems via their smartphone devices.
Patents and Interests
R2 Studios was founded by Blake Krikorian, who previously founded the Slingbox. The company holds some patents related to control of electronic devices and control interfaces, which has caught the attention of Apple, Google and Microsoft. All three companies have introduced technology that shows their interest in connecting mobile tech with traditional household entertainment hubs.
- Apple’s AirPlay and Apple TV: allow users to stream media from one device to another.
- Google’s TV efforts, Nexus Q: demonstrate its interest in home automation.
- Microsoft’s Xbox/Windows 8/Windows Phone 8 home media integration services: show its commitment to integrating multiple devices.
Talks Between R2 and Tech Giants
The talks between R2 Studios and the big three are still in early stages, but it is clear that all parties are interested in exploring ways to tap into the living room. The next logical step goes beyond just media and entertainment; it’s about creating a seamless experience for users.
Personal Assistants and Home Automation
Both Google and Apple are already taking steps to make their mobile devices more full-featured personal assistants. Siri and Google Now allow users to access information, such as finding good restaurants nearby or serving local movie showtimes or box scores from the baseball game. Why not extend these features to home automation? By using contextual information to inform automation patterns, users can experience a truly connected living space.
Paradigm Shift
The paradigm here is similar to streaming media: it makes more sense for companies like Apple and Google to build their own solutions rather than relying on manufacturer-specific ones. A home automation control system that works across devices and platforms will lead to greater adoption and user satisfaction.
Recent Developments in Home Automation
- Nest: a smart thermostat that learns users’ habits.
- Philips Hue: a line of smart light bulbs that can be controlled via smartphone app.
- Lumawake: a device that allows users to control lighting and other devices with voice commands.
Conclusion
Apple, Microsoft and Google are circling R2 Studios for its home automation software. With the big three already interested in connecting mobile tech with traditional household entertainment hubs, it’s clear that home automation is the next logical step. By integrating personal assistants with home automation features, users can experience a truly connected living space.
Recommendations
- Invest in R2 Studios: Apple, Microsoft and Google should consider investing in R2 Studios to gain access to its innovative home automation software.
- Integrate Personal Assistants with Home Automation: by extending personal assistant features to home automation, users can experience a seamless and connected living space.
Takeaways
- The big three tech giants are interested in home automation software from R2 Studios.
- Home automation offers a new layer of use value for portable devices.
- Integration with personal assistants will lead to greater user satisfaction.