Magnum Energy Solutions, a manufacturer of innovative wireless solutions, launches root™, a Google Android-based thermostat that is anything but retro. Created as a smart device, root is poised to pave the way towards the interconnectivity of devices, appliances, protocols and building systems. root doesn’t need to learn behaviors and preferences because  it is intuitive.  Enabled with innovative and comprehensive functionality, as well as third-party app integration, root is ideal for any lifestyle. root takes hold immediately upon activation. 

root works as the central portal of the home, seamlessly interfacing with other energy management devices as well as related home automation and security platforms including Sonos, Alarm.com, ADT, Comcast and Nest Protect. Beyond that, the Google Android core allows root to control nearly anything with an available app in the Google Play store. 

“The design of root reflects the Internet of Things reality that is now upon us,” states Mike Giorgi, CEO of Magnum Energy Solutions “Devices are getting smarter and sexier, so why not your thermostat?” 

Mr. Giorgi is referring to the fact that root has a seven inch capacitive touchscreen, allowing users to easily interface with the features of the device in the same way that they would with their smartphone or tablet. Users can stream music, audio books, replenish supplies through Amazon, connect to their Fitbit, stream live video, control door locks and even control a garage door and sprinkler system. All these features are accessible through an easy–to-use, intuitive interface. 

From a hardware perspective, root has multiple layers of connectivity potential, including EnOcean, ZigBee, WiFi, Bluetooth, ZWave, Verizon 3G mobile capabilities and an Ethernet jack for a direct connection to either an existing or planned infrastructure. root represents the most connected and capable thermostat on the market today. 

The immediate need recognized by Magnum Energy for root lies in multifamily residential buildings. Facility owners and managers can use root to communicate to an entire building or to individual residents. Security alerts and emergency messaging can be audibly and visually presented on the thermostat’s dynamic display. In buildings where control of vacant spaces is necessary, root provides the answer. Facilities staff can use root to remotely monitor and turn off utilities when units are not occupied. Furthermore, additional energy management devices like occupancy sensors, which can interface with root, require no batteries to operate. 

According to Mike Smith, VP of Building Technologies at real estate developer, Forest City, “Magnum’s Android- based, wirelessly communicating root presents the future of residential living.” With nearly $9 billion in diversified real estate assets, Mr. Smith has kept Forest City focused on the forefront of emerging technology adoption and looks to Magnum Energy Solutions to lead the “smart apartment” strategy he has developed within Forest City and evangelized in the multifamily industry as a whole. 

Magnum Energy is expected to fulfill root orders starting April 1st at a suggested retail price of $299 or $379 for root with Verizon mobile capabilities. To be one of the first to experience the benefits of root, pre-order today by contacting sales@rootthermostat.com. To learn more about root, please visit www.rootthermostat.com or call us at 330.656.9365.