Next Stop – Insurance

Telus, the second largest telecommunications company in Canada, has launched TELUS SmartHome Security and TELUS Secure Business, marking its entrance into the smart home and business security market.

Available for B.C., Alberta and Saskatchewan homes and businesses, both services are fully-managed through an app, which provides quick access to alerts, status updates and controls for automated devices. The systems offer customers a highly customizable solution that integrates outdoor cameras, smart locks, connected lighting, doorbell cameras, window and door sensors, smart thermostats, garage door controllers, and smoke, flood and carbon monoxide detectors. Users can also interact with the systems via Google Home or Amazon Alexa and create custom “scenes” that run multiple commands at once.

“TELUS has a long history of delivering innovative technologies to both consumers and businesses and we are proud to now offer security and automation solutions to help protect what matters most and streamline control of connected devices. Powered by our award-winning networks and entirely controlled from a smartphone app, TELUS’ security solutions provide integrated, flexible systems to make our customers feel safe, empowered and in control.” – Senior Vice-president at TELUS Smart Security, Jason Macdonnell.

As of now, insurance isn’t offered or recommended as part of the subscription service, however, the company states that home insurers “typically offer discounts when security systems are installed.”

Bottom Line: expect to see an insurance partner in the near future.