The cloud-connected smart home is expected to create a $28 billion US market by the year 2020; this is according to research firm ON World. With money like this on offer, I am sure it will draw a lot of attention anyone with the money to invest. One UK mobile operator, O2 has decided they want in and has decided to offer the service to UK households.
Just two weeks after Vodafone and Alcatel-Lucent said they are looking for more areas to test their Femtocell solutions, O2 today said today they are switching on their 4G (or LTE – Long Term Evolution) network in London. The Telefónica subsidiary is the first to offer 4G wireless to the capital and is expecting over 1000 individuals to take part in the trial. This includes businesses, social bodies plus demonstrations will be offered at O2 stores.
O2 is set to join the likes of BT and Virgin media in offering fibre optic broadband service. According to the Cable website, O2 will launch a commercial trial before the end of this year. Felix Geyr, the companies managing director, said they are making sure “the right customer experience” is in place before the pilot starts.