Security System in a Box “Ring-Leader” Launches Second Gen
Ring announced a second generation of its home security system, with the biggest differences from the original coming in the form of smaller hardware – with a new matte finish – and one-touch access to emergency services (police, fire, etc.) from the keypad. Owners will have to subscribe to Ring Protect Plus for access to the emergency response tools for home break-ins. The new system comes in 5-, 10-, and 14-piece kits depending on the size of your home and budget as they range from 199 to $329. All kits include the base station, keypad, motion and contact sensors, and a range extender. Orders will start shipping on April 29.
The NPD Take:
- The “security system in a box” is one of the largest home automation retail sales growth opportunities (granted, those high growth rates are made possible by still being one of the smallest segments within). Nevertheless, Ring has been the market leader since it started selling its first-generation system back in mid-2018 and shows no signs of backing down in popularity among those consumers who are looking for a DIY security solution.
More Low Cost Cameras, This Time from Eufy
Following on the heels of Blink’s camera last week, now Eufy has announced two new indoor cameras: the $39.99 IndoorCam 2K and the $49.99 Indoor Cam Pan 2K. Both cameras have 2K resolution and 2-way audio, and both are HomeKit compatible. The IndoorCam Pan 2K adds 360-degree horizontal panning, 100-degree vertical tiling, and 8x zoom. Both are expected to start shipping in mid-May.
The NPD Take:
- There is already a lot of competition in the low-cost security camera realm, and this one comes in at double the price of the Wyze cam and at the same price point (for the non-Pan) as Blink’s new camera…but Blink has the power of Amazon’s backing to assist its brand recognition, distribution, and ability to promote. This will make it extra challenging for Eufy as a less recognized name, unless you happen to be familiar with their robot vacuums.
Get Smart About Brushing Your Teeth
Who could say no to a speedy tooth brushing session of only 20 seconds? Smart toothbrush company Talo says its smart toothbrush will clean your teeth – properly – in about that time. This adjustable brush is designed to fit any size mouth from small to large, and the bristles move along a set of guides that allows them to reach everywhere they need to go. Best part (besides the 20 second factor), is that the user just holds the brush in place – no other movement needed.
The NPD Take:
- Unfortunately, the worst part is the price – this toothbrush is expected to retail for $195…but is currently on Kickstarter for $120. Surely there will be some consumers, though, who feel that a good dentist-approved tooth brushing for 20 seconds versus the 2 minutes of today’s electric toothbrushes on the market is worth the steep price tag.