If a new model comes out with higher quality or longer battery life, you don’t have to worry about re-running the power cable to an outlet. One of the aspects of battery-powered cameras that I think goes under-appreciated is how easy it is to upgrade them in the future. Depending on the camera, you’ll have to tame them down a few times a year to charge them, though. To get started, you’ll do the initial charge, get them on your Wi-Fi network, add to HomeKit, and then mount them wherever you want coverage. There are benefits to both, though.įor battery-powered cameras, it’s straightforward to install and upgrade in the future. Outdoor HomeKit Camerasįor outdoor HomeKit cameras, one of the first things you’ll need to decide is if you want to go battery-powered or hardwired. What are their business models? What is their track record of protecting customer privacy? Is privacy at the core of what the company values? In my experience, the only major technology company that cares deeply about your privacy is Apple, and that is why I believe HomeKit Secure Video is a fundamental part of the smart home experience. By starting with a secure foundation, customers can know that they can have all the benefits of modern conveniences while knowing their privacy is still intact.Īs you think about putting devices in your home that can hear and see you, consider the companies making these products. In a few decades, there will no longer be homes vs. As our world becomes more connected, it’s even more important to consider the security of your data from the beginning. HomeKit Secure Video includes end-to-end encryption.

If you want to use more than one camera, you’ll need the 2TB iCloud storage plan.

To use HomeKit Secure Video, you’ll need a compatible camera, HomeKit Hub (Apple TV, HomePod, or HomePod mini), and a minimum of a 200GB iCloud storage plan. If a product supports HomeKit Secure Video, the camera will store its footage in iCloud. If a product supports only HomeKit, you can use it for automations like using a camera’s motion sensor to trigger a light or view the live stream inside Apple’s Home app. Some products support HomeKit but don’t yet support HomeKit Secure Video.

HomeKit Secure Video isn’t a requirement for using cameras with HomeKit. Wrap up on best outdoor HomeKit cameras.

Sighthound camera compatiable