Technology

Blink, the renowned smart camera company under Amazon’s umbrella, has introduced person detection to its latest battery-powered camera, the Blink Outdoor 4

This upgraded security camera boasts not only an enhanced design but also improved image quality and more accurate motion detection. Remarkably, it maintains the brand’s hallmark feature: an impressive two-year battery life from just two AA batteries.

Released on August 24th, the camera is available for purchase at $119.99 for a one-camera system accompanied by a Sync Module 2, while an add-on camera is priced at $109.99. It’s important to note that the cameras require the accompanying module to function.

The inclusion of person detection in a security camera serves to curtail unnecessary notifications by offering the choice to be alerted solely when a person is detected outside the property, as opposed to mere occurrences like a passing cat or rustling tree.

The Blink camera relies on on-device computer vision and local processing for quicker response times. To access these features, a subscription to the Blink plan is required, which costs $3 per month or $30 annually. This subscription includes the advantage of retaining cloud-stored videos for up to 60 days. However, the sync module allows the option of storing motion-triggered videos locally (via a USB stick) without any extra charge.

The Blink 4 camera matches the video quality of its predecessor, the Blink 3, with 1080p resolution. Yet, it enriches the experience through enhanced low-light sensitivity, improved clarity, and a wider field of view. According to Mike Harris from Blink, this was conveyed in an interview with The Verge.

Additional enhancements comprise of dual motion zones for reducing false alerts, and a redesigned appearance similar to the Blink 3 but with a sleeker and more contemporary aesthetic. For added customization, users have the option to embellish the camera with a variety of colored silicone covers.

The impressive longevity of Blink cameras is attributed to Blink’s proprietary silicon technology, particularly the third-generation chip. This chip not only facilitates features like advanced dual-zone motion detection but also made its debut in Blink’s wired floodlight camera. Harris affirms that the company is committed to further enhancing its computer vision capabilities, hinting at the unveiling of more features and functionalities associated with the chip in the future.

Given their compact size, versatile mounting system, and reasonable cost, Blink cameras offer a versatile solution for monitoring various spaces. In fact, they can be conveniently placed in locations like my experience of setting one up within a rabbit hutch in the center of my garden.

Blink cameras integrate seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, allowing users to view live footage on an Echo Show smart display and receive motion alerts via an Echo speaker. However, it’s worth noting that integration with Google Home and other platforms is currently not available.

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