Can you remember all those science fiction stories that allowed doors to open on command or people to identify visitors with a touch of a button? It used to be pure fantasy, but with the advent of smart door bells and smart locks, what was once just a fantasy has become reality.
Smart door bells have been in operation for a little while now and they operate using Wi-Fi technology and a smart phone app. Smart doorbells are compatible with all mobile devices. At first glance a smart doorbell looks like a traditional modern doorbell to your visitors, but once pressed operates in an entirely different fashion. Once the doorbell is rung you receive an alert on your mobile phone and then you can actually see who is at your door and converse with them, literally from anywhere in the world.
It is an innovation that will make you feel as if you have leapfrogged in to the future, and there are a variety of quality smart door-bells on the market that will suit your needs. They offer different features, including wide angle lenses and motion sensors.
Linking to other apps and devices
One drawback, albeit a slight one, is that a smart door bell won’t allow you to unlock the door for your visitor. This means that if you want to let someone in, you will still have to physically get up and do it. You can easily overcome this problem by installing a smart lock that is compatible with your smart doorbell. Until recently this has proved to be a little clunky as you have needed to switch between apps to let someone in after you’ve identified them.
Smart doorbell operators like Ring are working to maximize the potential of smart doorbells by attaching them to other household gadgets as well. During the course of this development they have managed to develop one application that allows you to both identify visitors and to let them in.
The practical applications of this technology are numerous. Besides being able to vet visitors prior to opening the door, you can apply this technology in many time saving ways. If you are expecting visitors to arrive at your place before you do, you can instruct them to ring the door bell when they arrive and you will let them in. The same principle could be applied to trusted tradesmen. Then, there are those times when a family member locks themselves out of the house (it happens to us all at some time!). They can simply ring the doorbell and wait for you to let them in from wherever you are.
So how much does all this cost?
A smart doorbell will cost in the vicinity of $200, while an integrated solution like the smart lock app developed by Ring may cost another $70. This technology is just developing and you can expect that there will be more innovative applications of the technology as developers continue to explore the possibilities.
If you are considering a smart doorbell and would like it installed on the North Shore or the Sydney Northern Beaches area, or you are looking for advice on any electrical installation or maintenance we invite you to give our friendly Everest Electrical team a call today on 0410 229 139 to discuss your needs.