Philips opens futuristic HomeLab
Thursday, May 16 2002
by Ciaran Buckley

The technological devices built into the two-level, two-bedroom home, do not include remote controls, entertainment devices or computer monitors, all of which have been replaced with futuristic technologies that are transparent to the naked eye, yet are more sensitive, personalised, adaptive, anticipatory and responsive to the presence of people.

All of this "intelligent technology" is embedded into everyday home appliances and furniture to create a laboratory where families can actually reside, allowing Philips scientists to study their subjects' interactions with developing technology in their most natural setting -- the home.

HomeLab, which opened in late April, is linked through hidden cameras, microphones and two-way mirrors to a state-of-the-art observation centre.

Philips says that HomeLab will enable its researchers to "live" with consumers 24 hours a day, to study how they interact with new home electronic prototypes. The company believes that this unprecedented, ongoing access will speed up its product development cycle.

"By observing them using our technology in their natural habitat -- the home, we can better adapt that technology into real world products. This will be a key differentiator for Philips moving forward," said Ad Huijser, Philips' chief technology officer.

The facility is decorated with modern furniture and Van Gogh prints. To play a song, the person simply says "Music where are you?" and hums a tune. Within a few seconds, the smart technology will play the tune being hummed. Similar technologies are tucked throughout the home -- even in the bathroom, where a digital display in the medicine cabinet plays videos that encourage children to brush their teeth.

Philips claims that the products being tested in Philips HomeLab today will be a part of everyday life within the next five to 15 years.

Philips opens futuristic HomeLab
Thursday, May 16 2002
by Ciaran Buckley

The technological devices built into the two-level, two-bedroom home, do not include remote controls, entertainment devices or computer monitors, all of which have been replaced with futuristic technologies that are transparent to the naked eye, yet are more sensitive, personalised, adaptive, anticipatory and responsive to the presence of people.

All of this "intelligent technology" is embedded into everyday home appliances and furniture to create a laboratory where families can actually reside, allowing Philips scientists to study their subjects' interactions with developing technology in their most natural setting -- the home.

HomeLab, which opened in late April, is linked through hidden cameras, microphones and two-way mirrors to a state-of-the-art observation centre.

Philips says that HomeLab will enable its researchers to "live" with consumers 24 hours a day, to study how they interact with new home electronic prototypes. The company believes that this unprecedented, ongoing access will speed up its product development cycle.

"By observing them using our technology in their natural habitat -- the home, we can better adapt that technology into real world products. This will be a key differentiator for Philips moving forward," said Ad Huijser, Philips' chief technology officer.

The facility is decorated with modern furniture and Van Gogh prints. To play a song, the person simply says "Music where are you?" and hums a tune. Within a few seconds, the smart technology will play the tune being hummed. Similar technologies are tucked throughout the home -- even in the bathroom, where a digital display in the medicine cabinet plays videos that encourage children to brush their teeth.

Philips claims that the products being tested in Philips HomeLab today will be a part of everyday life within the next five to 15 years.