New York, NY (October 18, 2000)–Xanboo™, the first completely integrated Internet home management system that enables individuals to remotely monitor and control their homes and business, will be available to consumers through retailers, telephone companies, cable service providers, utility companies and security distributors starting in January of 2001.

A low cost, easy to install "smart home" solution, Xanboo meets a wide variety of compelling lifestyle and business needs. Homeowners will now be able to keep an eye on their homes from virtually anywhere. They will be able to remotely control appliances and be automatically notified when events such as device power interruption, temperature change, or motion on the premises occurs. Working parents will be able to see that the kids got home safely from school, or observe who is at the door. The system works over both dial-up and broadband Internet connections, but the "always-on" nature of broadband access makes possible an even greater number of additional, useful features.

Using a standard Web browser to reach their secure accounts at the Xanboo Web site(www.xanboo.com), businesses will be able to remotely monitor multiple locations; control HVAC and lighting; observe equipment and operations; and be notified when events such as unauthorized entry, water damage or undesired temperature changes occur.

"Xanboo is a complete system that truly delivers on the promise of the ‘smart home,’" said Robert Diamond, Xanboo CEO. "Its low cost and easy installation make it practical for millions of people who seek peace of mind in protecting their homes and businesses, as well as ensuring the safety of their loved ones."

Designed, manufactured and distributed by New York City-based Xanboo Inc., the product/service package combines compact color video cameras with accessory sensors for motion, sound, water, temperature, power interruption and door/window contact, together with a number of appliance controllers—all of which link to the user’s personal computer through his or her Xanboo System Controller. Proprietary software then enables users to access a password-protected personal "Control Panel" on the Xanboo Web site to monitor and manage their home or business environment.

A key feature of the Xanboo system is event notification that can send an alert to the user’s e-mail address, pager or text messaging cell phone whenever a camera detects motion or a sensor is triggered by a change in temperature, an open door or window, loss of power or the presence of water. Automatically recorded time-stamped still images or video clips of sensor events, plus on-demand real-time video, can be viewed on the user’s Xanboo Web account and stored or emailed to friends and associates. All notifications, video images and real-time viewing, sharing and controls are provided through a single low-cost monthly service fee.

Based on strong commitments from several major retailers, the company expects to manufacture 60,000 units for distribution in Q1 2001. "We anticipate a quick sell-through of this initial production run," said Diamond, adding, "with our manufacturing facility in Shenzhen, China, we can meet even higher demand."

The Xanboo system expands to accommodate a user’s individual needs. Up to four color video cameras with built-in motion sensors and eight additional sensors can communicate with a single Xanboo System Controller, which links to a personal computer. The Xanboo system requires a Windows ‘98 operating system or higher, and an IBM compatible PC with an Internet connection.

The suggested retail price for the Xanboo starter package, which includes a camera, Xanboo system controller, cables, and installation software is $179.95. Additional cameras can be purchased at a suggested price of $79.00 for conventional models, or $109.00 for wireless. Sensors—including models for motion, acoustic, doors and windows, temperature, water and power on/off—are available at a suggested price of $24.95. The monthly service fee for unlimited access to the Xanboo Web site is $9.95 with a one-year subscription.

In January of 2001, Xanboo will be publishing details of the Xanboo protocol that will allow any product or home appliance manufacturer to Web-enable their products for remote control and monitoring through the Xanboo system. "Over time, we expect many manufacturers to produce devices compatible with Xanboo’s specifications," said Diamond.