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Outdoor Smart Camera FAQ

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Timothy Rios
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  • What comes in the box?

Camera, Corded Mount, Doorbell Mount, Magnetic Mount, USB power adapter, mounting hardware, wall clips, security lock wrench, quick start guide, window decal.

  • Can I use this on its own?

Yes, this device will be able to be used as a standalone product without the need to pair it to a gateway.

  • Can I use automations if it isn’t connected to a gateway?

You will have to use separate, compatible automation platforms since you do not have devices connected locally to a gateway. For example, you can use your Outdoor/Indoor Smart Camera in Alexa, Google Home, or HomeKit automations but won’t be able to use CUE automations without an abode gateway.

  • Will this work with any doorbell mount?

The new abode camera comes with two mounts-- one is designed for a standard wall outlet, and the other is compatible with many AC-powered hardwired electronic and mechanical doorbell chimes operating between 8-24 volts. The camera is not compatible with wireless doorbell chimes, but may be integrated with select smart speakers to provide audible feedback.

  • How does this trigger my doorbell chime without a button?

Using motion detection and computer vision, the device can trigger hardwired doorbell chimes when people approach, without the need for a physical button. The camera can intelligently distinguish between people, animals, and other movement to trigger doorbell chimes only when needed.

  • Can I use this with my hotspot?

Yes, this camera does not require Ethernet at any point and can be set up over WiFi.

  • I’ve seen a lot of outdoor cameras in the news lately being vulnerable to hacks. How is your camera preventing this?

Abode cameras authenticate using X.509 certificates. This authentication process issues a temporary, limited-privilege security token which is used to transact via TLS. This ensures your video data remains secure and only accessible to you.

  • How do plans work without a gateway?

There will be dedicated, video-only plans for users without a gateway that we will announce details of at a later date.

  • Will I need a separate plan to use this device with my abode system?
If you are an existing abode user, there will be video-specific plans that will allow you to access & monitor both live and recorded video clips captured by this camera.
  • When will this device be available?
We are targeting a late Q3 launch of this product.
  • Where is the database of recognized faces stored? Is it secure?
Every accounts database of recognized faces is stored securely in the abode cloud where all other abode-captured media is stored. This information and database is only accessible by the user for complete security.
  • Will the video experience be better than it currently is with abode cam and iota?
We are actively working on an overhaul of our video infrastructure which will lead to a significant improvement in the user experience in both this camera and existing abode cameras in the field. Our aim is to make our video experience best-in-class.
  • How is this different from the abode cam?
While the abode cam does feature HD video, two-way voice, and IR night vision; the Outdoor/Indoor Smart camera includes all of those features with the addition of motion detection and weatherproof housing. It can also be mounted both inside and out while the abode cam is limited to indoor use.
  • Is this camera waterproof?
It is, this camera comes with IP65 certified weatherproofed housing so you can use it with confidence in the elements.
  • Can I use this inside?

Yes, this camera can be used either outside or inside without issue.

  • How is this device powered?
If you are using this device inside or on an outdoor wall, it’ll be powered via a standard North American wall outlet. If you are opting to use it as a doorbell instead, you can install it right in your existing doorbell mount without the need for a power cord.
  • What happens if my WiFi goes out?
In the event your camera gets disconnected from its WiFi connection you will receive an immediate alert that your camera is no longer online.
  • What happens if my power goes out?
In the event your power goes out you will receive an immediate alert that your camera is no longer online.
  • Can I have my camera professionally installed?
Yes! Through our partnership with HelloTech you can opt to have your camera professionally installed if you’d like. However, there are some areas that we do not service so check in with us before you choose professional installation at checkout to ensure your address can be serviced.
  • What happens if someone tries to steal or damage it?

This camera comes equipped with a security lock to prevent it from being removed from its mount. If someone were to damage it you would receive a notification that your camera is offline which would allow you to act immediately.

  • Will it be HomeKit compatible on launch?

It is our intention to ship these cameras as HomeKit compatible.

  • What storage options will be available?

We will be announcing video-specific storage options before we begin taking pre-orders for this device. Keep an eye out for an announcement to come soon. Video will be stored securely in the abode cloud and available for download as it is now.

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