From iPhones to smart grid sensors

When AT&T loses its iPhone exclusive, at least it will still represent some other wireless-enabled emerging technology: sensors for the smart grid.

The telecommunications giant has struck an agreement with Cooper Power Systems under which it will be able to sell smart-grid sensor devices that have been certified to run on its wireless data network. Utility companies are obviously the target customers.

AT&T will represent two different offerings: OutageAdvisor, which pinpoints line problems and faults; and VARAdvisor, which monitors equipment that controls voltage levels that are delivered to consumers. The alternative to both of these technologies today? Manual inspection.