Arlo Gets Essential with its Doorbell
Arlo has announced the Arlo Essential Wire-Free Video Doorbell, which – as can probably be gleaned from its name – runs on rechargeable batteries, rather than being hardwired like its original Video Doorbell. Similar to that doorbell, this new version has a 180-degree field of view, a 1:1 aspect ratio, HDR, night vision, 2-way audio, and support for video calls. This new doorbell is available for preorder now for $199.99 and should start shipping in time for the holidays. It will come with 3 months free of the Arlo Smart Premier Plan.
The NPD Take:
- Ring already offered a wirefree doorbell, and these types of doorbells offer better ease of installation, so Arlo’s addition to be more competitive with the market leader comes as no surprise. The “Essential” nomenclature is a bit confusing here because unlike the Arlo Essential security camera which was designed as a more budget friendly option than Arlo’s higher end camera options, here the Essential has essentially the same specs as the Arlo Video Doorbell, and a higher price tag to compensate for the battery.
(Blue by) ADT Moves Further into DIY
Nearly a year into the announcement of Blue by ADT (ADT’s DIY home security brand that was revealed at CES 2020), the brand has launched a range of DIY customizable security products that enable customers to build their own systems. Options include indoor cameras, outdoor cameras, and a number of different sensors for flood detection, motion, windows, and doors. In addition to the “build your own” option, Blue by ADT has two pre-designed packages, Starter and Starter Plus. The Starter system includes a hub/keypad, and 2 door/window sensors (for $220). The Starter Plus adds on two additional door/window sensors and 2 motion sensors (for $300).
The NPD Take:
- ADT does have a very recognizable name in security and this brand under their umbrella should position them well to pursue the DIY path – however, it remains to be seen if Blue would simply cannibalize ADT’s professional monitored security systems or if it would impact DIY at retail brands like Ring and Arlo. If Blue by ADT goes with a D2C only route with no retail presence, the possibility that it would impact other brands seems unlikely.
Lifx Clean: A Smart Light Bulb that Lights AND Disinfects
Smart lighting company Lifx has announced the Lifx Clean, a full color lightbulb that not only provides light like a lightbulb should, but also claims to be an antibacterial, germicidal smart light that works as a disinfectant. The $70 A19 bulb uses HEV (high energy violet) light to kill certain kinds of germs and bacteria, including pathogens like E. coli and staphylococcus aureus. The lightbulb only activates these HEV diodes when you turn them on. Otherwise, it will put out regular light in any color or shade of white. Lifx envisions the bulb being programmed to kill bacteria around the shower, toilet and sink overnight, or used in a desk lamp to disinfect phones and keys. Tests for antiviral efficacy, including COVID-19, are planned but Lifx doesn’t expect to have those results until after the bulb becomes available sometime in Q4 this year.
The NPD Take:
- Obviously germs and bacteria are top of mind for everyone these days and that has led to companies like PhoneSoap enjoying a moment in the spotlight. Whether this cleanliness obsession translates into a willingness to buy smart lightbulbs at $70 a pop is a tall order, though. The fact that Lifx as a smart lighting brand has been challenged to gain market traction in the first place is one reason. Consumer trust in the HEV technology and alternative solutions like PhoneSoap, or a good old bottle of Lysol (if you can find it) are others.