Home automation company Control4 has developed its own application marketplace called 4Store where custom A/V integrators can download features to enhance system from Control4, as well as third-party devices.

An account can be set up at www.4store.com, and customers can then download and purchase a variety of applications in numerous categories. Some of the first to be available include a calendar feature (US$7.99) that allows families to view up to six Google calendars via a touch-screen display; a free Door Lock app from Black & Decker that lets families manage Kwikset ZigBee locks with individual person codes; and Dinner Out from Concierge Services (free) that lets owners of Control4 systems browse local restaurants and make OpenTable reservations directly from the touch panel.Other typical apps are available as well, like a Blog Reader, Facebook, Twitter, and eBay's eShop.

Control4 has also released the latest software upgrade, OS 2.0, which includes support for Adobe Flash, and implements ZigBee Pro technology for interoperability with a greater number of devices. Additionally, it includes some neat new design options, allowing customers to make their own personalized home page, wallpaper, and screen saver; and customers can also mark favourite pages for quick access.

There is also now support for seven languages: French, Spanish, Chinese, Russian, Portuguese, Ukranian and English, with the ability to add new languages via the Control4 Language Development Kit.