BBC reports that South Korea, already poised to lead the robotics revolution, is now targeting smart homes as well. It's not just speculation: Already, 30,000 homes have been built.
These aren't the talking, thinking homes of science fiction -- although they could evolve into such. Rather, they are homes that include enough intelligence to manage the household functions in a routine way, based on occupants' instructions.

One example is the ordinary-looking apartment occupied by Mi-yung Kim and her 10-month-old son Jae-won. Superficially normal, upon entry one notices an LCD wall panel. It displays various devices in the apartment so
Mi-yung can choose which to control. ( Continued )

Electricity cables are used to transfer data, as well as power. (Note: This type of technology is also being explored as a way to provide high-speed Internet access.)

Each appliance has to fit the operating standards of the HomeNet system, one of a variety of such systems now available in South Korea. No standard has yet emerged, which means that homeowners must purchase appliances
to fit the system they use or plan to use. The system tracks electrical consumption, pays power bills and stores video messages. It can tell when your washing has finished and who is visiting before the occupant answers
the door.

It is connected to the Internet, which makes telecommunications possible. It also allows remote monitoring and control of the systems.

LG Electronics is spearheading deployment of the system. It has construction deals to provide these in 30,000 South Korean homes starting in 2008.
Continued tomorrow.