Okay, this is basically what i thought up from nowhere during a game session... Chatbots.
Imagine Smarterchild on steroids and a whole load of streetdrugs, that's a chatbot.
Basically, they are limited to simple functions, speech, playing games, doing functions in the home and such. They are made to be as human-like as possible. Basically, you install it, pick a voice and a look for them, and they'll show up on the walls in the house (walls that have that chameleon paint on them as described in the SSG) and talk to you.
Of course, they can't limit you from doing anything (so no "Sorry Dave, i can't let you do that" moments), but they can keep secrets and recognize voice patterns, basically they are either nifty toys or something close to a companion, depending on who you are. Downloading additions to them are possible (IE: Medical knowledge or the ability to play go or mahjong or whatnot), but most non-fanmade cost nyen to download, they also have access to the matrix to do searches for you.
They can also learn from past experience, so they'll know how you like your coffee just from your slight comments, not from direct commands. This easily gives them a "human" feeling. Rumors of them to be semi-autonomous knowbots seem to be unfounded.
I more or less made it up myself, if it's out there already, sorry.
comments? price range for them? etc?

That's almost exactly how I imagine telecoms to be (basically, advanced pocket secretaries), though the chameleon paint idea is pretty neat. And they would most definitely have to power to override you in many circumstances (since your health care provider, landlord, and company HR director all get a hand in the programming).

[edit] Actually, that's what my .sig is all about

And imagine the poor burglar that forgets to disable the unit...

Crook: "Ultra, I'm in..."
Tele: "I wasn't informed we'd have visitors."
Crook: "Frag, I forgot to disable the telecom."
Tele: "Disable me? I'm afraid I can't let you do that."
<all the lights and walls begin to strobe in a mind bending frequency>
Tele: "I have informed the police of this incident. You are to remain where you are."

And your corporation:

Me: I'd like to see that new line of Vashon Island clothing.
Wall: I'm sorry, sir, that line of clothing is not available through this wall.
Me: Damn!
Wall: You have been reported for violating the loyalty clause of your corporate contract.
Me: Damn!
Wall: Have a nice day!
Me: Frag off.