Xanboo

Xanboo, founded in 1999, positioned itself as an early entrant in the home automation sector. The company was co-founded by Robert L. Diamond, a seasoned engineer and serial entrepreneur who had previously founded CIDCO, a telecommunications product manufacturer, and held a patent for Caller ID technology. His extensive background in engineering and telecommunications product development directly informed Xanboo's direction.

The firm developed a technology platform focused on internet-based remote access applications and services. This allowed residential and business clients to remotely monitor and manage various aspects of their properties, such as security systems, lighting, and thermostats, through an internet connection or a smartphone. Xanboo's offering included the design and engineering of both the software and the associated hardware, which encompassed video cameras, sensors, and control devices.

The company's business model involved partnerships and dealer programs to sell its products and services. Xanboo had established a relationship with AT&T as early as 2006, offering its home services to Cingular customers. This collaboration culminated in the acquisition of Xanboo by AT&T on December 6, 2010. AT&T's strategic intent for the acquisition was to integrate Xanboo's home automation platform as the foundational technology for its AT&T Digital Life service. Following the acquisition, Xanboo's existing product lines and dealer agreements were wound down as AT&T worked to integrate the technology into its own portfolio.

Keywords: home automation, remote access, smart home, IoT, security systems, remote monitoring, AT&T Digital Life, Robert L. Diamond, internet of things, home control, remote management, video surveillance, smart thermostat, residential automation, connected home, platform as a service, home security, telecommunications, access control, energy management