AT&T Gives the Smart Home a Second Try With Help From Google and Abode

"Previously available as a pilot program in select markets, AT&T Connected Life is rolling out nationwide starting today. The vision behind it is to simplify smart-home setup. Instead of buying various smart-home devices and using multiple apps to connect them, you can buy one of two kits directly from AT&T's Connected Life website-the Starter Kit ($11 per month for 36 months) or the Advanced Kit ($19 per month for 36 months). You can also pay upfront for the kits at $399 and $699, respectively."

"Each includes Google Nest smart-home products and security sensors, with the Advanced Kit offering more sensors, a security keypad, and a Nest Cam security camera. (Google confirmed the Nest products on offer are not the latest devices the company launched recently.) You'll use the Connected Life app and the Google Home app to set everything up, though you can also get help from a technician if you don't want to DIY."

"Google says the platform leverages Google Home's application programming interface (API) to integrate Google's smart home devices into the Connected Life app, and after setup, users can solely rely on the Connected Life app to view livestreams and manage devices. There are two subscription tiers: Essential ($11 per month) or Professional ($22 per month). They offer access to features like 30-day event video history and intelligent alerts, though the Professional plan includes a US-based monitoring service from Abode."

AT&T is relaunching a smart-home security platform called Connected Life nationwide in partnership with Google and Abode after sunsetting its Digital Life service in 2022. Customers can buy Starter and Advanced kits through AT&T with monthly financing or upfront payment; kits include Google Nest devices and security sensors, with the Advanced Kit adding more sensors, a security keypad, and a Nest Cam. Setup uses the Connected Life app alongside the Google Home app, with optional technician installation. Two subscription tiers—Essential and Professional—provide features such as 30-day event video history and intelligent alerts, while the Professional tier adds US-based monitoring from Abode that can be paused when not needed.

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