Doorbot rebrands as Ring, unveils redesigned video doorbell

By Drew Prindle September 29, 2014

Ring video doorbell — Image used with permission by copyright holder

Roughly two years after it originally launched, DoorBot is dead. But not to worry — it’s not completely gone. Both the network connected video doorbell and the company behind it have been reborn as Ring. Along with its new name, the new and improved doorbell comes with a sharper focus on home security, as well as a more aesthetically pleasing look that should blend better with your home’s exterior.

Just like DoorBot, the new Ring bell can transmit HD audio and video over the owner’s home Wi-Fi network. When somebody rings the bell, an alert will pop up on the homeowner’s smartphone or tablet and allow them to see and communicate with the person in the doorway — no matter where they might be in the world.

Related: Chui is a smart doorbell that can recognize faces and play custom greetings for your guests

In addition to this core functionality, the new and improved Ring doorbell also boasts a number of new tricks. Unlike the original, Ring can be connected to your existing doorbell wiring, or run entirely off the built-in lithium ion battery if that’s what you prefer. It’s also completely weatherproof, outfitted with infrared sensors that give it night vision, and even sports new motion detection software that can alert you to activity happening outside your door when the bell hasn’t been touched.

Ring is available for pre-order now for $199 until November 1st, at which time it goes back to the full price of $249. It comes in four different finishes, and free cloud-based video recording until January 1, 2015, at which time subscription options will be available. Orders start shipping on November 3rd to early pre-order customers.

Editors' Recommendations

Topics

Home Security

Former Digital Trends Contributor

Drew Prindle is an award-winning writer, editor, and storyteller who currently serves as Senior Features Editor for Digital…

Smart Home

Ring is launching its first integrated pan-tilt security camera later this year

The Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam Starlight on a shelf.

Ring's catalog is growing a bit larger this month with the arrival of the Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam on May 30. This marks the first time the company has released an integrated pan-tilt camera, and for shoppers seeking a device that can capture all corners of their room, it should be an enticing option.

Using the Ring app, you can control the viewing angle of the Pan-Tilt Cam remotely. Its motorized base can swivel up or down and pan left or right, allowing you to move the camera as you see fit. That allows for 360-degree horizontal coverage and 169-degree vertical tilt coverage. Ring says it designed the camera to deal with a variety of common situations experienced by its customers -- such as scanning a living room to check on a pet or attempting to monitor multiple doorways and windows throughout the home.

Smart Home

Blink Mini 2 vs. Ring Stick Up Cam Pro: Which is the best security camera?

The Ring Stick Up Cam Pro on display the 2023 Amazon Fall Devices and Services event.

The Blink Mini 2 is one of the cheapest security cameras you can buy. It's pretty well-rounded too. It's capable of filming in HD and offering support for outdoor use when paired with an optional accessory, making it a great choice for shoppers on a budget. That makes it wildly different from the Ring Stick Up Cam Pro, which carries a hefty price tag and supports both indoor and outdoor use right out of the box without the need to purchase a secondary accessory.

But is the Ring Stick Up Cam Pro a better investment than the affordable Blink Mini 2? From pricing and video resolution to the installation process and additional features, here's a look at the Blink Mini 2 and Ring Stick Up Cam Pro to help you decide which is the best choice for your home.
Pricing and monthly fees

Smart Home

How to save Ring Doorbell video without a subscription

Ring Doorbell mounted outside a front door.

Take a walk through any neighborhood, and you're bound to see a few Ring video doorbells installed next to front doors. The brand is increasingly popular, thanks to an ever-growing product lineup that makes it easy to find a device for all budgets and security needs. But one of the peskier features of Ring is the need for a Ring Protect Plan -- a monthly subscription service that unlocks the majority of the camera's most useful features.

One such feature locked behind a Ring Protect Plan membership is the ability to save Ring doorbell videos. Without a plan, you'll really only be allowed to view a live feed of your video doorbell. The plans are pretty generous, with the Basic plan costing $5 per month and offering video history for up to 180 days, making it a worthwhile investment for homes worried about their security.