Virtual Butler Mirror ‘Intelligent’ Home Automation Controller

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We weren’t sure how to title this particular item as, whichever way we put it – within a half-reasonable word count – it simply refused to make any cohesive sense. But then just how does one introduce a home automation computer controller that can control everything from doors to security cameras to jacuzzis (and a great deal more besides) which comes with a mirror through which a (butt ugly) face – the face of the virtual ‘English’ butler – appears to let you know what’s happening and to do your bidding? It’s not easy, let me tell you.

Billed as being ‘compatible with nearly all existing home automation and security systems’, meaning that it is compatible with the ones its compatible with and isn’t with the ones its not compatible with (which is extremely enlightening), the linked product page describes the Virtual Butler thus (and, no, a quick check of the calendar will confirm today isn’t April 1st):

The Virtual Butler is an amazingly intelligent computer server that connects to most of your home’s electronics–security cameras, front gate, garage doors, back doors, pool gate, jacuzzi, etc–and alerts you whenever there is a change in your environment (arriving guest, departing car, opened pool gate, etc).

The Virtual Butler appears through its specially designed mirror and speaks to you through your home’s speakers (it disappears afterwards). It literally shows you what the occurrence is through a live video feed, which works if you have security cameras in your home. It also reminds you of appointments and that the jacuzzi is ready. The Virtual Butler speaks in an English accent and looks the part, but a customized butler can be created for you that looks and sounds like anything you want.

I must admit, initially I had to check whether I’d overdone today’s medication but, no, this is all legit, to the tune of $20,000, though we should stress its probably not a good idea if you have young kids in the house – the ghostly vision of a face appearing in the mirror, its voice bellowing out, is enough to sow the seeds of severe psychological problems they may never truly get over.