Visual voicemail is accessed on either the frame or an included handset via AT&T U-verse Voice and AT&T Unified Messaging offered by AT&T. The frame itself lets users access the Internet through an interface that includes one-touch links to local weather information, stock profiles, sports, news, photos and more, as well as e-mail that can be synchronized with mobile phones via AT&T’s Mobile Backup application. AT&T’s Yellow Pages application allows users to browse White Pages and Yellow Pages online directories to find, map, and email people and businesses.

When not in use as a phone or Internet tablet, the frame doubles as a digital photo frame, capable of displaying videos or photos in either a slideshow or screen saver configuration from media stored on an SD memory card, USB device or in an e-mail attachment.

The package also includes a cordless handset and a broadband base station that needs to be connected to the phone line and the Internet, which then passes content onto the touchscreen frame via a Wi-Fi connection. The system works with either VoIP or traditional landline phone calls.

Initially, the HomeManager service will be offered in nine markets, including Chicago, Atlanta, Austin, San Antonio, Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, San Diego and Los Angeles. Available now, it is priced at $299. Additional handsets and frames can be purchased, and while there is no monthly fee, customers must sign a two-year High Speed Internet, U-verse TV or Voice services contract from AT&T, however.