If an intimidating guard dog isn’t an option to protect your home, valuables, and loved ones, luckily, smart tech has stepped up to the challenge. The following devices can also often be monitored from your smartphone.
THROW AWAY THE KEY
Smart locks have made keyless entry into cars and residences a relief from carrying around a bulky key ring. For US$229.99, the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock fits over most existing deadbolts with installation taking only 10 minutes. The lock pairs with your smartphone over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth through the company’s app so you can check to see when your door is unlocked or locked. You can also create or delete virtual keys for any number of people you want to grant access to at no additional charge. The device can also be paired with Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant.
SOMEONE AT THE DOOR
We no longer need to rely on the peephole at the front door to determine who is knocking. Google Nest Video Doorbell is its first doorbell that runs on a rechargeable battery that is compatible with the Google Home platform. For US$179.99, the doorbell captures 4K video and allows users to zoom digitally, automatically track subjects, and chat with visitors, all of which can be done through the Google Home companion app on any smart device.
LOCK IT UP
You don’t have to be James Bond to use an FBI-certified fingerprint sensor. The Verifi Smart Safe (US$374.99) employs the technology to ensure any dangerous items, money, or valuables are stored in a secure manner, with access only granted to those permitted. This safe, made of alloy steel, comes with an antitheft alarm and time-stamped tamper alerts. The smart-fingerprint technology allows users quick access, with years of use from a single set of batteries.
WHEN THERE’S SMOKE
Keeping a sleeping family safe from fire or carbon monoxide is not a task to be taken lightly. The Google Nest Protect, which detects both smoke and carbon monoxide, pairs with the Nest, Google Home, and even Philips Hue lightbulbs to give a visual cue of danger. The device, available for US$119, will not only sound an alarm, but also tell you which room the smoke or carbon monoxide has been detected.
SHED SOME LIGHT
When there’s a noise in the yard, the eufy Floodlight Cam 2 Pro is there to illuminate the grounds with powerful, three-paneled, 3,000-lumen motion-activated floodlights. The smart floodlights are also equipped with a 100-decibel siren as well as a 360-degree pan and tilt camera that captures 2K HD video that can lock on and track any subject. The Cam 2 Pro, retailing for US$299.99, can also be controlled from the eufy Security companion app.
A SECURE HOME
The Abode Iota, which takes less than 15 minutes to install, is designed to minimize the threat of any intruders and deter possible break-ins. Abode’s wireless security devices and accessories can be customized to your home, and each system allows up to 160 synced devices. It includes built-in sirens, wireless radios, and motion-sensored cameras, all for US$279.99. Your system, which is connected through Wi-Fi, can be monitored from anywhere through the companion app. You also can receive immediate notifications and pair with your other smart-home devices.