Innovation in door chimes; it's about time. California based Microsystems Development, Inc. has designed the iChime, a door chime that the company calls, “the play anything doorbellâ€, and that's exactly what it does.
The iChime comes with 50 pre-recorded sounds including scary Halloween screams and spooky music, a vicious barking dog, a quacking duck, police sirens, and holiday music, along with many traditional chimes. Here's where the real fun starts though; you can download any other sounds that you desire to the iChime, using either the built-in microphone, your MP3 player, CD or PC. As the company says, “the possibilities are endlessâ€; your favourite tune or TV theme song, your car engine revving, your uncle snoring, the cat meowing, a beer can opening, the toilet flushing: You can have a different chime play each week and for every special occasion.
The unit, currently only available in white, sells for about $90.00. Installation is simple and auxiliary speakers are available.
MP3 Doorbells
Replace 'Ding Dong' With 'Kanye West' Using iChime
Trend Themes
1. Customizable Doorbell Chimes - The rise of customizable doorbell chimes presents an opportunity for companies to develop new digital interfaces that allow homeowners to create personalized sound experiences.
2. Connected Home Audio - The integration of doorbells with MP3 technology presents an opportunity for companies to develop smart home audio devices that can be connected to a home Wi-Fi network and controlled using a mobile app.
3. Voice-activated Doorbells - The popularity of smart speakers like Amazon Echo and Google Home suggest a market for voice-activated doorbells that can be controlled using voice commands.
Industry Implications
1. Home Security - Innovations in doorbell technology could lead to new applications in home security, including facial recognition technology linked to a doorbell to allow for controlled access into homes.
2. Home Automation - The integration of doorbells with other connected home devices presents opportunities for companies within the home automation industry to create intuitive smart home experiences.
3. Digital Audio - The rise of customizable doorbell chimes presents opportunities for audio companies to develop new products and services that cater to the trend of personalized audio experiences.