Control4 and Cisco have signed a strategic agreement to deliver network-enabled automation platforms for connected ‘smart communities’ and home energy installations.
Cisco is leading an investment in Control4, and the collaboration between the two companies includes the integration of Control4 technology into Cisco’s Service Delivery Platform (SDP) and the introduction of Cisco-branded Control4 products.
Speaking to IE Residential, Control4 Energy Systems president Richard Walker clarified the extent of the investment: “Control4 raised $15 million from three investors, of which Cisco was one. These strategic relationships further our initiatives to bring affordable and user-friendly home control and energy management products to global markets, while expanding our licensing of the Control4 OS in key verticals. The Cisco deal is a great endorsement of the open strategy that Control4 believes is key to bringing home automation to the mainstream, it also demonstrates that control goes beyond home entertainment and can have applications that improve everyday lives.”
Control4 will also become a key member of Cisco’s ecosystem in delivering specialised applications to meet the needs of Cisco’s Smart+Connected Communities and utility customers.
“Both Cisco and Control4 share a vision of delivering a connected world where we all lead better and simpler lives,” said Control4 chief executive officer Will West. “The integration of Control4’s operating system is a key component of the value proposition for Cisco’s Smart+Connected Communities vision to use the network as the platform to build smart, green and connected communities around the world and helps bring the benefits of automation and control to potentially millions. This relationship is a great validation of our licensing strategy and will accelerate our international growth and reach with consumers, businesses and utilities.”
“Cisco envisions a future where successful communities and cities will run on networked information enabling economic, social and environmental sustainability for citizens,” said Wim Elfrink, chief globalisation officer and executive vice president, Cisco Services. “Cisco’s collaboration with Control4 will offer our customers the network as the platform to transform and manage their properties, enhance economic development and city management, and improve energy management and citizens’ quality of life.”
