If there’s anything Insecam (the cams have since been removed, btw) have taught us, is that our privacy could be on the line when using security cameras, in particular, IP cameras. That said, if you’re paranoia about having digital eyes inside your home, then we think Point Home Security Device may be a perfect alternative. It is a simple, minimalistic device that looks after your home when you’re away without introducing invasive measures like cameras. It connects to the Internet via WiFi and is packed with non-invasive sensors to detect any anomalies in your home like smoke, temperature, humidity level, window breaking, or if someone has entered your home.
It even has built-in lights and speaker that you could use to remotely communicate with the people in your home. But I guess, that would be a last resort cos’ you probably don’t want to creep out your Airbnb guests, which may result in ugly scenes like the Point being the victim of mischiefs. But lucky for you, one of Point’s many able sensors will be able to let you know if it has been tampered and it works with smart lock like Lockitron to enable you to let someone in to check out the situation, if necessary, when you’re unable to. For serious privacy-obsessed folks, you’d be glad that all those anomaly analysis is done on the device itself, which means no sound will be recorded or sent across the Internet, thus negating the risk of anything personal being hijacked off for someone else’s fun and joy. Point runs off user-replaceable AA batteries which should last for over a year under “normal conditions”, thereby offering a truly wire-free home security solution.
As with any connected devices, you will be kept in the know of any abnormal situations or happenings via your smartphone, where you could then take the appropriate action(s). If you’re all up for a comprehensive and yet non-intrusive home security system, then head on down to Point’s Kickstarter campaign page and pre-order yourself one (or more). Prices start at $79 and may run up to as high as $699, depending on the number of Point required.
Thanks @nmattisson for the awesome hat tip!
