Anker's Eufy line introduces new smart home security devices with upgraded features and stylish designs, including a 3K video doorbell, a 2K smart lock, and a solar-powered wall camera, all integrating with major smart home systems and set to launch in early 2026.
Lockin introduces the V7 Max, a smart lock with a built-in video doorbell and biometric options, powered by innovative wireless optical charging within a four-meter range, reducing battery concerns and enhancing smart home integration.
This article outlines affordable ways to upgrade your home into a smart home, focusing on budget-friendly devices like smart plugs, smart speakers, video doorbells, and smart bulbs, which are easy to set up and offer practical benefits for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
Walmart has launched new affordable Onn security cameras and a video doorbell, developed in partnership with Google, that work with Google Home and Gemini features, offering HD video, smart alerts, and basic free recording, with optional paid storage plans.
The Ring Battery Doorbell Plus is on sale for $79.99, matching its July Prime Day low, offering high-quality 1536p video, quick response times, and features like radar-based motion detection, making it a top choice for battery-powered doorbells just in time for Halloween and Prime Day shopping.
The article reviews eight smart home gadgets that the author has tested and recommends, including a highly rated video doorbell, reliable smart bulbs, a compact smart plug, a facial recognition smart lock, and a sensor for detecting electrical issues, emphasizing their ease of use, security features, and how they enhance home automation and safety.
Signify's Hue Secure video doorbell features a 2K fisheye camera, free 24-hour video history, and integration with Hue lights and smart home platforms, arriving in October for $170, aiming to stand out in the home security market.
Eufy's FamiLock S3 Max is a high-tech smart lock that combines a video doorbell with a digital peephole and palm vein unlocking, offering a reliable, multi-platform compatible security solution with live video feed and local storage, though it is expensive and has some limitations in night vision and package detection.
The article reviews eight top smart home gadgets, including a highly recommended video doorbell, reliable smart bulbs, a compact smart plug, a facial recognition smart lock, and a sensor for detecting electrical issues, emphasizing their features, reliability, and how they enhance home automation and security.
Aqara has released the G410, a feature-rich $129.99 video doorbell supporting Apple HomeKit Secure Video, with 2K video, wide field of view, multi-protocol connectivity, facial recognition, and no mandatory subscription, making it a versatile and advanced option for smart home security.
Amazon has released an updated Blink video doorbell priced at $60, featuring a larger HD view, wider field of view, improved weather resistance, and person detection with a subscription. However, it now requires a separate Sync Module for operation, which is not included, and local storage options come at additional costs, potentially deterring some buyers.
Blink has released a second-generation budget video doorbell featuring improved video resolution, a wider 150-degree field of view, person detection, and a new Sync Module Core, all at an affordable price of around $60-$70, maintaining its industry-leading two-year battery life despite some hardware limitations.
Consumer Reports found that $30 video doorbells sold under various brands on popular marketplaces have serious security issues, including lack of encryption that exposes users' home IP addresses and WiFi network names. These doorbells, linked to a user's phone via the Aiwit app, can be easily hijacked by creating an account and pressing the button to put it into pairing mode. Even if the original owner regains control, the hijacker can still access time-stamped images. The devices pose a threat to safety and privacy, potentially endangering individuals with stalkers or dangerous exes. Consumer Reports has notified online marketplaces, but some have not responded.
With the rise of online shopping during the holiday season, the threat of porch pirates stealing packages from doorsteps is increasing. To protect your deliveries, consider using a video doorbell to deter thieves and capture their faces. Choose a delivery date when someone will be home, sign up for delivery notifications, and talk to your delivery drivers to ensure safe placement of packages. Utilize Amazon Lockers or install a locking delivery box or smart mailbox for added security. Another option is Amazon Key In-Garage Delivery, which allows packages to be securely placed inside your garage. Stay informed about nearby package theft reports and consider requesting a signature confirmation for deliveries. By implementing these strategies, you can keep your packages safe and enjoy a worry-free holiday season.
Wellbots is offering Black Friday pricing on a range of Ring cameras, making it a great time to invest in home security. The Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2, with 3D motion detection and color night vision, is currently priced at $148, down from $250. The second-generation Ring Video Doorbell is available for $50, saving 50% on its list price. The third-gen Ring Stick Up Cam, a versatile battery-operated camera, is now $58, a $42 savings. Wellbots also offers other models, including floodlight cameras, at discounted prices. However, potential buyers should review Ring's privacy statement and consider their comfort level with the company's policies.