Telefónica dives into the consumer internet of things with Thinking Things ‘ambient’ pack
Telefónica has launched a modular internet of things platform called Thinking Things, which consists of stackable modules for a variety of purposes.
There will be many sensors, actuator modules and so on to come, but the first manifestation of the new platform is an “ambient kit pack” that includes a communications module with an embedded SIM, a module for measuring air temperature, humidity and ambient light, and a battery module that can be charged via microUSB (the battery modules, which can charge 1,000 “communications” per charge, can themselves be stacked.) This will apparently let users remotely control the temperature, lighting and humidity of their home or office, though that only applies to lights, heaters and humidifiers that are plugged in, rather than fixed units.
The Spanish carrier group is kicking things off with some introductory prices: The ambient kit costs €89.95 ($114) with six months’ 2G connectivity included, or €99.95 with a full year’s connectivity - beyond that, connectivity will cost €14.94 for 6 months and €24.95 per year.
Importantly, the devices will be usable across Europe, the U.S. and Latin America.