8 Mar 2022

Smart home device adoption is on the rise, as new advancements and technology continue to roll out. According to Interpret, more than half of all U.S. consumers own at least one smart home device with video cameras, ranking in the top five most popular.

In addition, Parks Associates found that one-third of consumers who own a smart home device increased their use of their devices during the COVID-19 pandemic, noting both the indoor and outdoor cameras.

Is a smart camera also a security system?

But is a smart camera a security system? Recent research from Interpret (a global insights firm) found that half of smart camera owners actually consider their cameras as their home security system.

Having cameras where people expect to see them, as well as where they don’t is what can make the difference between good and great security. But, while a camera is a great way to keep an eye on the home and loved ones, by itself, a camera is not a true security system.

Cameras connected to home monitoring system

A picture may be worth a thousand words, but in the home security market, a camera is worth so much more"

A picture may be worth a thousand words, but in the home security market, a camera is worth so much more,” said John Owens, the Senior Vice President of Sales Strategy and Operations at ADT Security, adding “Cameras can capture motion, facial recognition, and more, but where they can really be the most impactful is when they are connected to a professionally monitored system.

Professional monitoring offers a profound difference over self-monitoring and when coupled with indoor and outdoor cameras, can provide monitoring agents and 911 dispatchers with more details, in order to help them send the appropriate first responders, in case of an emergency.

Connected cameras help verify alarms

In addition, monitoring agents can use connected cameras to help verify alarms, which is known to help increase first responder response times.

So, while cameras alone won’t keep the home safe, they are a great first line of defence to help keep an eye on things. And, when coupled with a professionally monitored system, home owners can have greater peace of mind that professionals are helping to protect their homes 24/7.