Matsushita to release networked appliances

Matsushita said Wednesday it will release a networked home appliances to enable users to operate consumer electronics from remote locations with mobile phones.

The system will be put on the market Sept. 1 and the company will simultaneously release four appliances for use in the system — four air-conditioner models, a refrigerator, a washer-dryer and a microwave oven.

The system will involve installing a terminal in a house to control the appliances. The in-house terminal will be connected to Matsushita’s computer server via an asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL).

Combined with sensors on windows and elsewhere, the 182,000-yen system will also monitor security and other household conditions and alert users by sounding an alarm on their cell phones or other terminals in the event of an emergency.

Four air-conditioners for use with the system will be offered at prices ranging from 270,000 yen to 390,000 yen. The refrigerator will sell for 295,000 yen, the washer-dryer for 170,000 yen and the microwave oven for 90,000 yen.

Matsushita, known for its Panasonic brand of consumer electronics, plans to sell 300 systems in Osaka and vicinity before launching nationwide sales next April.

Source: Kyodo News