AT&T Digital Life home automation platform set for Dallas and Atlanta trials this summer

Ahead of the CTIA show in New Orleans this week, AT&T has announced Digital Life, a home automation and security platform that will be offered as a professionally-installed system directly through the carrier’s stores (among other places). AT&T is leaving the range of devices and capabilities offered through Digital Life somewhat open-ended, but users will be able to set up cameras, window and door sensors, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, automated door locks (akin to Schlage Link), thermostats, and power control, for starters. “Any web-enabled device” will be able to control the system in your home, AT&T says, including PCs, tablets, and smartphones — and you don’t need to be using an AT&T phone or broadband connection to do so.

AT&T’s move looks to be a direct shot at Verizon’s Home Monitoring and Control package introduced last year — and like Verizon’s system, Digital Life will support Z-Wave, a popular wireless protocol in the home automation industry. There’s no word yet on when it’ll be available nationally, but trials are set for the Dallas and Atlanta areas beginning this summer.