Verizon Wireless is looking to reinvent and reinvigorate the home phone by launching a new device on Feb. 1st called the Verizon Hub. Designed to replace the standard home phone, Verizon hopes the Hub will be the centerpiece of communications, contacts, and calendars for the home. Think of it as a device that bridges communications, Internet connectivity and content, and wireless communications.
Connecting to any broadband service at home, the Hub will provide advanced calling features such as visual voice mail and “robust” contact list management. Use it as a messaging center by sending text message calendar alerts and turn-by-turn directions to other Verizon Wireless phones. Other features that will be available to the Hub include:
- Check local traffic and weather reports
- Update calendar and automatically receive text when appointment changes or as a reminder for the appt.
- Get directions to a new site when the location changes
- Find local business information
- Preview upcoming movie trailers and purchase movie tickets
- Connect to VZ Navigator and Chaperone services
- V CAST content will be available
- Doubles as a digital photo frame
You’ll also have access to the Verizon Hub over the Internet via a companion website which will allow you to make updates to the Hub.
Will this device be a hit for Verizon Wireless? It’s hard to say since most people could care less about the home phone these days – especially with the widespread adoption of mobile phones. Heck, many families have altogether dropped their home landline connections in favor of just carrying a mobile phone. I guess we’ll see in a few days about how capable the Hub really is.
Stay tuned on pricing and service plans.
