Image : Reolink/Open Home Foundation
. Reolink cameras, excluding its 4G models, can now process video feeds and AI alerts within the users’ home networks, enhancing privacy. Home Assistant is an open-source, free smart home software platform that is managed by the Open Home Foundation. Many DIY smart home enthusiasts have adopted it, and it runs on a variety of hardware, from Raspberry Pi processors and Arm processors, to the 64-bit x86 Architecture commonly found in MiniPCs. It can be run as a virtual computer on a MacOS or Windows laptop or desktop.
Reolink is delighted to announce the addition of the first cameras via the “Works With Home Assistant Program”. Miranda Bishop, Partnerships Manager at the Open Home Foundation.
Home Assistant is not only free, but it also operates locally, which means that there’s no dependency on the cloud. Users can also enjoy greater privacy, as data does not need to be sent outside the home network.
Reolink cameras operating under Home Assistant is able to process video feeds, AI alerts and device controls locally. Reolink users will save money by not having to pay for cloud storage or subscriptions. Home Assistant promises to protect the privacy of Reolink camera owners, by eliminating any worries about third-party intrusion or vulnerabilities outside of a Reolink user’s control.
While not all Reolink cameras come with onboard storage, every model is capable of storing video recordings on network-attached device. This article is part of TechHive’s in-depth coverage on the Best home security cameras
Adding Reolink cameras to a Home Assistant ecosystem has other benefits. Users will be able link their Home Assistant compatible smart home devices so that an event can be triggered on another device. You could, for example, have your smart porch lights turn on when your Reolink video-doorbell rings.
Michael BrownExecutive Editor, TechHive.
Michael is TechHive’s lead editor. He has 30+ years experience covering smart homes and home networking. He has a BA in Multimedia Journalism and authored the book Desktop Video Production. He was also awarded Best Online Review from the Computer Press Association. Michael built a smart house in 2007 and used it to test products. He is now living in the Pacific Northwest and converting his Victorian bungalow from 1890 into a smart home. Michael has worked for CNET, PCWorld Electronic Musician and Maximum PC. As a freelancer he has contributed to New Media Camcorder MacWeek and more.
