seth_j wrote:

But back to Apple.... what Apple and C4 are doing are two completely different things. Control4 is worried about controlling products/devices in your house. Apple is worried about effortlessly displaying content on your TV and picking up a couple of devices for the cool factor.

Based on the patent application, it's clear Apple is thinking about *control* of devices.  In the 114 page filing, they illustrate an iPhone controling the following devices: DVR, satellite receiver, light switch, ~Xbox, receiver, DVD player, projector, security system, intercom, garage door, sprinkler system and thermostat (and yes, an Apple TV too).  It also highlights things like: multi-room control, programming your thermostat based on weather and lighting schedules etc...   

Full patent filing available here: http://www.freepatentsonline.com/y2012/0188052.html

I'm sure C4 is aware of what others are working on through either senario planning or just basic research.  I'm also sure they have developed strategies to deal with the results of their analysis relating to possible future outcomes for the industry.  I do wonder if there are potions of market sitting on the sidelines for now waiting to see what happens.  That could be a problem as he dollar involved in setting up a system makes this a high risk purchase for consumers.  Should be interesting to see how things shake out.  I'll be ready when they do.

dannyboy wrote:

The last discussion I had with Cisco on c4 was they stopped their focus in this space.
I got the impression from the last Cisco live event, that they have dropped a few technologies where they are not likely to be number 1 or 2 in the market.

Previously CISCO focus seemed to be on commercial, not domestic automation too. Hope ive misread this play, but at this stage I'm not holding my breath that the Cisco partnership is a game changer.

who knows what they have planned