The internet of things is all about securing the home. Every week, some newfangled security system starts a crowdfunding run sometimes peddling new features, sometimes not. In the end, the urge to want to keep a family safe usually wins out despite lack of innovation.
Sometimes, innovation isn’t needed, but rather a solid design, slightly tweaked and offered at the right price. The SENS8 is that product: It’s an all-in-one solution designed to protect the home through its combination of high-quality 1080p-capable HD camera and set of sensors. Together with its motion detector and 95dB speaker and alarm, users are alerted to break-ins and other mischievous behavior with the constantly recording device coupled with a siren to deter intruders. Or, users can use the speaker to engage in two-way conversation.
A small but significant difference between the SENS8 and other security units is its direct API connection to services like Google Drive and Dropbox, eliminating any fees associated with surveillance and storage. The device also features microSD card storage for vversatility. Other talents come from its temperature and humidity sensor that alerts users to drops in temperature stemming from open windows, malfunctioning air conditioning units and even broken pipes. And if the power goes out, its backup battery holds out for a half hour for continued monitoring. $119 gets backers their very own SENS8 by April 2017. The Indiegogo campaign is looking for $50,000 by November 2017 to see success.
While the SENS8 is touted not only a security center but also an environmental aid, the truth is that its “many” sensors are missing the few necessary to provide that kind of environmental data. Sensors to analyze air quality and the like are absent, making the SENS8 very similar to products like the Presence and Angee. But while the SENS8 is attractive and fairly priced, other security systems still offer far more. The SENS8 does nothing new but for some, its exactly what they need.