SimpliSafe has launched a $199.99 wired video doorbell that can hand a suspected security event from automated detection to a human monitoring agent. The agent can view the live camera, speak through it and attempt to deter an intruder or package thief.
The Video Doorbell Series 2 combines on-device AI, cloud computer vision and facial recognition. Hardware features include 2K video, 10x zoom, a 150-degree head-to-toe view, two-way audio, a siren, people and package alerts, and up to five seconds of pre-roll footage. It requires a SimpliSafe base station and keypad.
Live intervention comes through Active Guard Outdoor Protection, which requires a Pro or Plus monitoring subscription starting at $49.99 per month. The feature is opt-in, and SimpliSafe says an agent can see the live feed only while the system is armed and an event has triggered it. Colored LEDs show when an agent or homeowner is speaking.
The company says footage is encrypted in transit and at rest, but not end-to-end, and says it will not share video with law enforcement unless legally required. Buyers can use the doorbell with cheaper monitored or self-monitored recording plans, but those options do not include the human response that distinguishes Active Guard.