AT&T has officially launched its IP-based Digital Life home automation service in 15 markets, with plans to introduce the service in up to 50 markets by the end of 2013. 

The new service, which was announced last spring and has been trialing in Dallas and Atlanta, will be served up a la carte, depending on which aspects of their homes users want to control with Digital life. 

Packages include Simple Security, which features 24/7 home monitoring, 24-hour battery backup, a wireless keypad, keychain remote, recessed sensors and an indoor siren for $29.99 a month plus $149.99 for equipment and installation. 

The higher-end Smart Security package includes all the features of Simple Security plus a choice of three of the following features: motion sensor, carbon monoxide sensor, glass break sensor, smoke sensor or takeover kit.  Smart Security begins at $39.99 a month plus $249.99 for equipment and installation.

Additional service add-ons range from a camera package for $9.99, to an energy package for that allows users to control appliances, lighting and thermostats for convenience and energy efficiency for an additional $4.99 a month plus equipment and installation.

Most of these features can be controlled remotely from smartphones and tablets. 

The markets launched today include Atlanta, Austin, Texas, Boulder, Colo., Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Philadelphia, Riverside, Calif., San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis and select areas of the New York and New Jersey metropolitan area.