Telus is rolling out a new AI-powered assistant designed to act as a single brain for the modern connected home. The company claims the new tool, called the Telus SmartHome Assistant, solves the common headache of having to flip between dozens of different apps to control lights, cameras, and thermostats from different brands.
The system uses generative AI to build a custom interface on the fly based on what a user asks for. It can process voice commands, photos, and video feeds to handle tasks like troubleshooting a broken appliance or checking if a dog walker arrived on time. If a user asks to turn off the TV during homework hours, the AI will visually build the automation on the screen so the homeowner can quickly tweak or confirm the schedule. Telus proudly says it is designed and powered in Canada.
According to Telus, the platform can unify more than 2,000 different device models into one app. Dwayne Benefield, Chief Product Officer at Telus, said the goal is to move away from the fragmented experience of using multiple logins for different pieces of hardware.
“The true test of any smart home platform is whether it actually makes life easier and your home more enjoyable. The Telus SmartHome Assistant delivers that with one app, one login, and one AI assistant that can support thousands of smart devices, including those already existing in homes or ones consumers choose to buy to compliment their existing set-up,” said Benefield, in a statement to iPhone in Canada.
The assistant is currently being released only for Telus SmartHome+ subscribers, rolling out in the coming weeks. The turn-key service is for those who don’t want to set up and manage their own smart home devices, and want to pay for it. In the next few weeks, Telus plans to add internet management features, which will allow users to control Wi-Fi performance and set screen time limits for family members through natural conversation.
The service is available to Canadians now through the Telus SmartHome+ app. To attract new users, the company is offering up to $125 off smart devices and half off install for those who sign up for a two-year commitment.
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