It was never meant to be a competition in the way it has turned out, but there is a battle brewing between the two leading smart device operating systems (OS), Apple’s iOS and Google’s Android. Whether by design or co-incidence, Apple devices now play a major role in facilitating home automation; I would go as far as saying apple has now added home automation to its already established cool computing and entertainment solutions.  Following very closely behind Apple’s iOS is Google’s Android platform as a possible option.

A quick glance at the new Belkin WeMo automated switch you might be tempted to think its the same technology in a new package.  To a certain extent, it is but looking at the whole package you will come to love the enhancements on the old functions.  Its ability to be controlled from a smart device is an added bonus and a big step away from the manual presetting you have to do on other plugs.

Are you tired of having to get-up to turn off or dim your lights? According to INSTEON, they have introduced a for networked remote control dimmable LED light bulb, that you can control from your phone or tablet.  The 8 Watt (60W) bulb when paired with the free INSTEON’s SmartLinc Hub app turns an iOS or Android smartphone or tablet into a fully functioning remote control of the bulb.

Norton has announced plans to develop a more holistic virus solution for the future connected home and it appliances.  Through the project codenamed, “Apollo”, Symantec's Norton Labs is collaborating with Broadcom the chip manufacture to develop a new security solution for the home. The security software will be pre-built into Broadcom’s based router devices to protect from the gateway.

The UNH-IOL (University of New Hampshire InterOperability Laboratory) has setup a new home networking consortium, which is to act as a one stop shop for broadband forum TR-069 and IPv6 testing.  UNH-IOL said manufacturers of CPE (customer premise equipment) can have their devices tested for IPv6 CPE Ready Logo and compliance to the TR-069 protocol.  The UNH-IOL has been named the world’s only official laboratory for all Broadband Forum TR-069 testing and is the only approved laboratory for IPv6 CPE Ready Logo testing in North America.

Technological innovation, partnering and customer engagement are all key themes which are explored at the third Smart Homes conference and exhibition taking place in Amsterdam from 9-11 October this year.  The event forms part of the largest European utilities event which will gather more than 6500 energy professionals.

Some 6500 utility professionals will gather in Amsterdam in October for the annual Metering, Billing/CRM Europe at what has become the largest industry conference and exhibition on the continent. “The traditional, centralised energy sector is experiencing a seismic shift in the way electricity is produced, managed and consumed,” says Metering Europe director Aida Mezit, “and increasing demand, security of supply and the growing concerns over climate change are pushing for developments of smart grid and energy efficiency behaviour.”   

Cisco has developed a new software platform for its Linksys Wi-Fi Routers. Labelled Cisco Connect Cloud, the new platform will make it easier to add devices to your home network and make them more accessible, said Cisco. To support the Connect Cloud, Cisco has also release Cisco Connect Cloud Mobile App, which features SimpleTap, a new interface for the Linksys Wi-Fi Router.  Cisco also released six new developer apps to offer more control and convenience.

Cisco is offering a new range of home network wireless solutions based on the latest 802.11ac technology. The Linksys Smart Wi-Fi Router (EA6500) and Universal Media Connector (WUMC710) available this month promises to offer wireless speed of up to three times faster than current 802.11n devices. The router also features Cisco’s latest home network software platform, Cisco Connect Cloud, which offers hassle free network setup and management.

Microsoft has widened the functionality of its Xbox platform with the introduction of Xbox SmartGlass.  The new platform and update will allow the Xbox 360 to connect to your PCs, Phones and Tablets and show content. According to Microsoft SmartGlass will make “entertainment more engaging, web surfing more effortless and playing games more immersive”, by delivering companion content and control to enhance a TV experience.