Abode is proud to announce a major overhaul to video streaming within its platform. See below for answers to all of the most commonly asked questions regarding this update.
What will I be able to notice as a difference from before?
You’ll notice several improvements in the video performance of your Abode security system. Most notably, you will see an improvement in the time it takes for your video to begin displaying, significant lag reduction between pressing “record” or “speak” and that action taking place, enhanced quality of video from your Abode camera device, as well as a decrease in the amount of time between your system registering an action and that action being reflected on your video timeline.
I thought my cameras were already 1080. How can my quality get better?
While existing hardware has always supported HD video, the improvements we have made to the streaming engine allows us to better compress video content, making it easier to stream more quickly at a higher resolution.
Do I need to buy new devices to get this improved service?
You do not, this is available as a firmware update to all Abode cameras and iotas. To update your firmware, go here.
How do I get this improvement?
Check that your device firmware is up-to-date by tapping “Check for Device Firmware Updates” on the Abode Mobile App or visiting here.
Will this impact my video performance on HomeKit?
Yes, you’ll benefit from all the same improvements in video quality and playback speed in HomeKit as well.
Will all devices going forward ship with this functionality?
All devices currently in stock at our distribution center will require a firmware update once added to a system. All of our received shipments going forward will have this firmware pre-installed. We recommend checking for firmware updates manually each month to ensure you are getting the best performance out of all of your Abode devices.
Are there any new camera-enabled devices on the horizon beyond the Outdoor Smart Camera?
At Abode, we are always working to keep our hardware offerings as up-to-date and competitive in the market as possible. As a result, we are continuing to work on updated products across the entire spectrum of home security devices. While we are unable to comment on anything beyond the new Outdoor Smart Camera at this time, additional camera-enabled devices remain on our radar and product roadmap.
Does this change the way that Abode stores my camera footage?
Video footage captured by your Abode system and connected cameras remains yours, and only yours, even with this upgrade. The only time someone outside of an authorized user on your system can access your recorded content is during an active alarm when our professional monitoring center views live camera footage to verify an alarm to get emergency services dispatched properly and quickly. The professional monitoring center only has temporary access to your feed for a very short window which is only active during an active alarm event and if you, the customer, have opted-in to our professional monitoring plan.
Does this change the way that Abode video works via the app?
Outside of the dramatically improved performance, you should not notice any difference to your Abode video. The user experience via the app remains exactly the same.
Do I have to pay more for this feature?
You do not. This feature is available to all Abode users at no extra cost and does not change what video features are available on each tier of plan.
Video Improvement FAQs
