SimpliSafe is taking a proactive approach to home security by aiming to prevent crime before it happens with its new Active Guard Outdoor Protection service. This new offering combines advanced AI technology with a team of expert security agents, providing a two-pronged defense against potential threats. This launch marks a significant shift from traditional home security systems, which typically only react after an intrusion has occurred.
One of the key issues with traditional systems is the high rate of false alarms, which burdens emergency responders and creates unnecessary anxiety for homeowners. SimpliSafe’s Active Guard Outdoor Protection aims to address this by using AI to better distinguish between real threats and harmless activity. The system’s Outdoor Security Camera Series 2 is equipped with AI that can identify people and assess potential risks.
How Active Guard Outdoor Protection Works:
- When the system detects an unfamiliar person outside the home, the AI analyzes the situation and alerts a live SimpliSafe security agent.
- The agent can then view live footage from the camera, along with the AI’s assessment of the situation.
- If necessary, the agent can use the camera’s two-way audio to communicate directly with the person, deterring potential intruders.
- The system also allows for the creation of “Familiar Face” profiles, enabling it to distinguish between known individuals and potential threats, minimizing unnecessary alerts. Faces can be added via past camera triggers or uploaded images in the SimpliSafe app.
- In the event of a verified threat, the agent can immediately notify the homeowner and request priority police dispatch.
SimpliSafe emphasizes that privacy is paramount. Access to camera footage is restricted, and agents only have live viewing access when the system is armed and a potential threat is detected. The company also states that all monitoring services are opt-in, and customers have complete control over their data privacy settings through the SimpliSafe app.
SimpliSafe Active Guard Outdoor Protection will be available in the U.S. starting October 15, 2024. The new service will be offered as part of two new professionally monitored plans:
- Pro ($49.99/month): Offers overnight protection from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. local time.
- Pro Plus ($79.99/month): Provides 24/7 protection.
The new tiered subscription plans are a great way for users to decide how much oversight they need from SimpliSafe. Most users will likely be comfortable with just the overnight option, for looming issues while they sleep. They can then opt for the Pro Plus is they’d like a more robust “always-on” option. The Outdoor Security Camera Series 2, a crucial component of the Active Guard Outdoor Protection, will retail separately for $199.99.
