In a significant update for its users, Ring, the well-known smart home security company, has announced that it will soon offer 24/7 Continuous Video Recording (CVR) for its smart security cameras. Starting November 5, 2024, this long-requested feature will allow users to record video footage continuously rather than only when motion is detected, enhancing security measures for homes and businesses alike.
A New Subscription Model
The introduction of CVR is part of a broader revamp of Ring’s subscription service. The existing Ring Protect plan will be rebranded as Ring Home, with the premium tier—formerly known as Ring Protect Pro—now named Ring Home Premium. This premium subscription will be priced at $19.99 per month, which includes cloud storage for continuous recording from up to ten cameras, event-triggered recording, and several other new features.
This new subscription model aims to cater to the growing demand for comprehensive security solutions. Ring users have long expressed interest in being able to rewind through a timeline of footage to see everything that occurred on their property, and the addition of CVR addresses this need directly.
Supported Devices
At launch, the 24/7 recording feature will be compatible with four wired cameras: the Stick Up Cam, Stick Up Cam Pro, Indoor Cam (2nd Gen), and the Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam. Unfortunately, wired doorbells will not initially support this feature, although Ring has indicated that compatibility with additional devices is in the pipeline.
This selective support may prompt users to consider their existing Ring setups, especially if they rely on doorbells for their security needs. However, the availability of CVR for popular camera models still represents a significant enhancement to the Ring ecosystem.
Comparison with Competitors
While Ring’s new CVR feature is an exciting development, it does come at a higher price point compared to similar offerings from competitors like Google Nest and Arlo. Google Nest provides continuous recording for $15 per month for an unlimited number of cameras and doorbells, while Arlo’s pricing starts at $9.99 monthly for continuous recording, although this fee is per camera.
In addition, Nest and Arlo provide advanced detection features that Ring does not yet offer. These include facial recognition and specific pet and vehicle detection capabilities. Currently, Ring’s detection features are limited to person and package recognition. This could be a crucial consideration for users evaluating their options, especially those who prioritize advanced detection technology.
New Features Beyond CVR
In addition to 24/7 recording, Ring is rolling out several other new features designed to enhance the user experience:
- Doorbell Calling: Instead of just receiving a pop-up notification when someone rings the doorbell, users will now get a phone call. This feature is designed to ensure that doorbell alerts are harder to miss, allowing users to see and communicate with visitors through a live view.
- Video Preview Alerts: Users will receive rich notifications that include a short video clip when a camera is triggered. This will provide more context about the event before they open the app, improving situational awareness.
- Extended Live View: The duration for which users can monitor live feeds from their cameras has been increased from 10 minutes to 30 minutes. Premium subscribers will have the option for an unspecified extended live view, offering flexibility in monitoring their premises.
These features aim to create a more integrated and user-friendly security system, and they will be available across various tiers of Ring’s new subscription plans. Video preview alerts will be accessible to all subscribers, while the other functionalities will be differentiated based on the plan selected.
Adjustments in Existing Plans
While the Ring Home Premium plan retains most features from the previous Ring Protect Pro plan, it does come with some changes. Notably, professional monitoring of the Ring Alarm system is no longer included in the top-tier plan; instead, it will now be an optional add-on priced at $10 per month. This means that users who wish to combine CVR features with professional monitoring will find themselves paying a total of $30 monthly, which may lead to some reconsideration of their subscription choices.
For those looking for more basic coverage, Ring Home Basic, which includes event-based recording for one camera, will be available for $4.99 per month. Meanwhile, Ring Home Standard, which provides event-based recording for multiple cameras, will be offered at $9.99 per month.
Potential Impact on Users
The introduction of continuous recording and the additional features are likely to resonate with existing Ring users who have been asking for more robust security options. The ability to review a complete timeline of footage can provide peace of mind, particularly in high-crime areas or for those who want to monitor specific events or visitors.
However, the price point may deter some users, especially those who have been satisfied with the current motion-activated recording features. For many, the decision to upgrade will depend on how much they value the continuous recording and new features compared to the existing capabilities of their devices.
Security Considerations
As with any smart home technology, users must consider the implications of 24/7 recording in terms of privacy and data security. Continuous video recording raises questions about data storage, access, and potential misuse of footage. Ring has stated that the recordings will be securely stored in the cloud, but users should remain vigilant and informed about how their data is managed.
In addition, as more homes adopt smart security technologies, the potential for cyber threats increases. Users must ensure their devices are secured with strong passwords and are regularly updated to mitigate risks.
Conclusion
Ring’s introduction of 24/7 continuous video recording marks a notable advancement in home security technology, providing users with a more comprehensive view of their property. While the new features and subscription structure aim to meet the evolving needs of consumers, potential customers will need to weigh the costs against the benefits, especially when compared to competing services.
With the rollout set for November 5, 2024, existing and prospective Ring users alike will soon have the opportunity to enhance their home security setups, potentially making their homes safer and more connected. As the smart home landscape continues to evolve, Ring’s latest offerings reflect a growing trend toward integrated, user-friendly security solutions that prioritize both convenience and comprehensive coverage.