INIX Technologies Sdn Bhd is stepping up its research and development (R&D) efforts to come out with more Malaysian-made smart home products in a market currently dominated by foreign technologies.

Its chief executive officer Jimmy Tok Soon Guan said Inix has so far invested between RM3 million and RM5 million in creating products that are suitable for local needs and are comparatively cheaper.

Inix, he added, is currently developing intelligent systems based on third-generation (3G) mobile technologies for home automation and security.

Tok said by using the mobile phone, one can perform multiple chores from remote locations such as controlling the house lighting, air conditioners and electronic appliances, recording television programmes, and triggering the alarm.

The system also allows automatic recording of closed circuit TV should there be a break-in attempt, he added.

Tok said with broadband technology, users could even monitor their children's or maid's activities at home via the mobile phone.

Inix is in the midst of working on a  voice recognition system which is expected to be launched in the fourth quarter. Currently, the company is working with 10 property developers in the Klang Valley to install the system in new houses.

Tok said Inix plans to develop new video cameras and mobile keypads using power lines to provide better security. The company, he added, also hopes to create products for segments such as vehicle tracking via 3G technologies.

Inix is an investee company of Malaysian Venture Capital Management Berhad (Mavcap).