Abode Systems‘ nifty DIY home security system was the subject a deep-dive review from Digital Trends. Now, the company is offering a major upgrade with the launch of an all-in-one, do-it-yourself security system called “Iota” that offers big improvements to the company’s first starter kit. The new Iota DIY security system, which was on display during CES in Las Vegas, is finally available to purchase.
Iota’s most noticeable improvement is a full HD resolution camera that allows subscribers to see and hear what’s going on in their home, 24/7. The camera’s integrated infrared LEDs even provide night vision capability. The cylindrical gateway is equipped with a built-in 1080p camera, and live video can be accessed anytime via the Abode website, Apple Home app, Siri, or Abode’s Android or iOS app. In the event of an alarm, the security system will automatically upload clips to the Abode timeline, regardless of which plan subscribers have chosen. Video clips can also be triggered by other events inside the home, such as unlocking the front door, kids arriving home, the delivery of packages, and more.
The onboard Wi-Fi and Ethernet allow customers to take advantage of wireless networking, as well as plug directly into their home router. Abode’s Iota platform also includes a home automation system with native support for a wide variety of smart home devices. The kit offers greater connectivity than previous builds from Abode.
It also features support for Apple Homekit and integration across Alexa, Google Assistant, Nest, Z-Wave and Zigbee. The platform enables subscribers to connect to devices including smoke detectors, connected lighting, garage door openers, smart locks, and other appliances.
Iota’s integrated battery backup ensures the system stays connected for 10-plus hours in the event of a power outage, and the company offers optional 4G/LTE cellular backup protection as well. DIY smart home enthusiasts will appreciate Iota’s capabilities for customization. The kit’s RF connectivity supports hundreds of smart home devices out the box, including native app support for major brands like Nest and Ecobee, as well as local, direct integration for Philips Hue and LIFX.
Like its previous product, Iota is being offered on a subscription model, albeit with some new options. In addition to monthly and annual plans, the company has created short-term plans in three-day and seven-day increments for vacations and business trips. These on-demand plans provide professional monitoring services while you’re away.
Abode is releasing its Iota security system just in time for Black Friday, and it’s offering a special price point. You can pre-order the Iota kit for $259. Pair it with 4G cellular backup with the Connect Plan for $289, or get a full year of professional monitoring with the Secure Plan for $309.
Outdoor security cameras are not always practical if you live in an apartment or rental. Drilling into an exterior wall may be off-limits, while pointing a regular indoor camera through a window can create another problem once reflections start showing up after dark.
Baseus is trying to solve both issues with the new PrimeSentinel W1, a $69.99 security camera designed specifically to monitor the outdoors through glass. It mounts directly to a window without drilling and uses a 4K Starlight sensor with an F1.0 aperture for full-color monitoring during the day and at night.
This post is brought to you in paid partnership with Best Buy.
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With AI progressing so fast, it's only a matter of time before we start getting AI companions like the ones we used to see in movies like R2-D2, Wall-E, or Baymax. Now, Singapore-based OKA Technology has unveiled Mori, a cute little AI companion that looks less like a conventional home robot and more like someone turned the Pokémon Foongus into a table lamp.
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