Control Devices and Accessories via Android @ Home, Open Accessory

Among the new features that Google announced on Tuesday for users owning devices powered by their Android-based devices, we can count one that offers users the ability to control electronic systems at home, dubbed Android @ Home.

In short, the new feature would offer users the possibility to remotely control connected devices in their house, including appliances, entertainment systems, lights, and even climate systems.

Basically, the new Android @ Home feature would transform the Android device into a home automation controller to connect and direct all of the above.

With the new Android @ Home framework, developers would have the possibility to come up with software that would enable the control of specific electronics devices.

At the Google I/O conference, the Internet giant also showcased project Tungsten as part of the new product, which includes a hub that runs both the Android OS and the Android @ Home framework.

A Tungsten hub would come with a wide range of capabilities included into the mix, such as the ability to stream music through the newly announced Music Beta by Google service to any supported music device at home.

Google also announced that Android @ Home is completely open and that there are no fees in place for developing with the framework, nor would it require registration.

Another new feature that expands the capabilities of an Android device beyond what it was initially meant for would be Android Open Accessory, through which developers would be able to create accessories able to benefit from the software installed on the mobile device.

Apps that take advantage of the new features are also expected to emerge, and the Internet giant is committed to provide the hardware and software support necessary for the open accessory design kit (ADK).

At the Google I/O conference, the company demoed CardioQuest, device with a USB accessory that could monitor the heartbeat while exercising, as well as the manner in which one could control a game from the tablet.

The new Open Accessory offers support for all Gingerbread and Honeycomb devices. Currently, only USB devices are supported, but Google aims at adding Bluetooth support too in the near future. (via BGR)