DoorBot lets you check who's at the door on your smartphone
- 17 September, 2013 15:35
A new Wi-Fi enabled doorbell called DoorBot will stream live video of who is at your front door through a smartphone or tablet each time the bell is pressed.
Described as a "sleek, simple and powerful wireless doorbell", the device will even work when you're away from your home, provided your phone or tablet has a wireless Internet connection.
When a visitor rings the DoorBot, an alert will immediately be sent to your smartphone or tablet where you can ignore it, or choose to accept the call. The device will then display a video feed, and you can hear and speak to the visitor at your front door through your smartphone or tablet.
The DoorBot device itself combines a doorbell button with blue LED ring surround, a built-in video camera, a microphone and a speaker. It has a brushed aluminum faceplate but uses an ABS plastic housing.
DoorBot developer, BOT Home Automation, says the built-in camera has night vision, is weather resistant, and can be adjusted at multiple angles to ensure an optimal viewing angle once installed.
The company also says the DoorBot uses a proprietary screw underneath to prevent theft, and can be set up and mounted in minutes, without the need for professional installation.
Unlike the iDoorCam doorbell, which needs to be wired in, the DoorBot can be powered wirelessly by a rechargeable, lithium polymer battery that lasts up to 12 months.
Alternatively, it can be installed as a replacement for the door chime button on any existing hard wired doorbell if you wish.
The DoorBot will be compatible with any iOS devices running iOS 6 or later and any Android devices running Android 2.3 or later through a dedicated app, and a single doorbell can be used with multiple smartphones and tablets.
The DootBot is available to pre-order now for US$199 and is expected to begin shipping in September.
BOT Home Automation will also sell a version of the device bundled with Lockitron for $349. The latter is a Wi-Fi enabled door lock that can be operated using a smartphone.
A promotional video of the DoorBot can be viewed below.
