Around 1 in 5 households now has a video doorbell and they bring a multitude of benefits for home security, convenience and peace of mind. Whether you're anticipating deliveries, managing unexpected visitors or simply want to know who approaches your door, video doorbells provide a convenient and effective solution. In this guide, we’re looking at how they actually work and the tech they use to do this.
A video doorbell is a smart device that combines a traditional doorbell with a camera, microphone, and speaker. Usually, they connect to your home Wi-Fi network and allow you to see and speak to visitors from anywhere using your smartphone via a dedicated app. Arlo’s video doorbells are designed for ease of use, ensuring that everyone can benefit from enhanced home awareness.
How Do Video Doorbells Work?
The camera is central to a video doorbell's function. When someone presses the doorbell a motion sensor activates, and the camera captures footage. It then sends a live video feed to your smartphone via its app. This allows you to see who is at your door in real time.
Key features of most doorbells include:
Motion Detection
Advanced motion detection alerts you when someone approaches your door, even if they don’t press the doorbell. This is particularly useful for monitoring parcel deliveries or knowing who has come to your door.
Two-Way Audio
You can speak to visitors through the built-in microphone and speaker. This feature allows you to give delivery instructions, manage visitors, or simply have a conversation.
Live Video Streaming
Wireless cameras offer unparalleled flexibility when it comes to placement, allowing you to monitor even the most hard-to-reach corners of your property. But this freedom comes at a cost – battery life. Look for cameras with robust rechargeable batteries that can go for weeks or even months on a single charge. Some even offer solar panel options, using the power of the sun for continuous operation, freeing you from the worry of frequent recharging.
Cloud Storage
Most doorbell providers, including Arlo, offer cloud storage options. This allows you to record and review footage. This is essential for recording proof of any incidents or reviewing past visitors.
Wi-Fi Connectivity
Most video doorbells connect to your home's Wi-Fi network, enabling remote access from anywhere with an internet connection.
Do You Need Internet for a Video Doorbell?
A stable internet connection is required for a video doorbell to operate correctly. Without the internet, you won’t receive real-time notifications, access live video streams or use remote features.
There are doorbell cameras available that work without Wi-Fi. These types of cameras typically use a cellular network or a dedicated radio frequency to transmit the video feed to a receiver or a mobile device. This allows users to monitor their front door even if they don't have access to a Wi-Fi network.
Do Doorbell Cameras Record All the Time?
Most video doorbells do not record constantly. Instead, they record when motion is detected or when the doorbell button is pressed. This saves battery life and storage space. However, Arlo offers options for continuous video recording with specific subscription plans. Many doorbell apps also allow you to activate the camera remotely so you can view your entrance at any time.
Video doorbells provide practical benefits for everyday situations, enhancing home awareness and simplifying interactions.
How Video Doorbells Fit into Daily Life
Video doorbells have become a common feature in many homes, and for good reason. They offer practical ways to manage everyday situations and keep you informed about what's happening at your doorstep. Here’s a look at how they can be useful in your daily routine:
Remote Parcel Management
When a delivery driver arrives, you receive a notification. You can then use the two-way audio to instruct the driver where to leave the package, such as behind a plant pot or in a safe location. After the driver leaves, you can review the recorded live feed to confirm the delivery was completed. This feature is particularly useful when you're away from home and want to ensure your packages are securely delivered.
Controlled Visitor Interaction
Before answering the door, you can check the live feed to identify the visitor. If you don't recognise them, you can use two-way audio to communicate without opening the door. This allows you to manage interactions from a safe distance, which can be beneficial when dealing with unexpected callers or salespeople.
Enhanced Activity Monitoring
Motion detection notifications alert you to any activity at your doorstep, such as deliveries, neighbour visits or other events. This feature provides a convenient way to stay informed about what's happening outside your home, even when you're not physically present. It offers an extra layer of awareness and security.
Incident Review and Evidence
If a package goes missing, you can access cloud storage to review past events and identify what happened. This recorded footage can serve as valuable evidence when reporting the incident. Having this record can greatly simplify the process of resolving any issues.
Conclusion
Video doorbells offer a practical way to stay connected to your home, providing both convenience and increased awareness of your surroundings.
Arlo’s commitment to user-friendly design makes its video doorbells a leading choice for anyone looking to enhance their home awareness. With advanced features and reliable performance, Arlo video doorbells provide the peace of mind and convenience you need.