Skip to main content

Here’s what smart home security looks like for the super rich

Residence 950

If you think internet-connected cameras and doorbells seem fancy, just wait until you see what the ultra-rich have equipped their homes with. Forget about your standard smart home security tools, we’re talking personalized bat caves, bulletproof windows and shutters, and even laser curtains. There is no scenario that hasn’t been considered and no expense too high for some, according to Forbes.

The publication highlighted Residence 950, a luxury home in San Francisco that takes security extremely seriously — as it should, seeing as the home is listed for a cool $45 million. That makes it the most expensive property on the market in the Bay Area, which is a region that has no shortage of very expensive homes.

So just how locked down is Residence 950? Start with the garage, which features a cave-style entryway that would make Bruce Wayne blush. The house borrows security elements from major firms like Dell to create a high-level security system that greets anyone who tries to enter. The enterprise-level firewall includes a biometric keypad that only allows in folks who have approved fingerprints.

And it’s not just the outside of the homes that get the high-tech treatment. The rich folk browsing the housing market want to know the insides of their homes are secure as well. Safe rooms for people to retreat to in case of a home invasion are a popular request, as are security camera systems with lots of storage to save footage. Some go as far as installing bulletproof shutters that prevent an attack from a gunman.

That doesn’t even get into some of the real special requests highlighted by Forbes. Among those requests was a desire for counter-flash measures that can prevent photography in case of snoopers or paparazzi. Others have requested trapping mechanisms that lock intruders inside the house so they can’t flee before the authorities arrive.

Security measures go beyond just the fear of standard break-ins, too. Some homes are equipped for action-movie-level attacks. That includes blast-proof floors and walls that would prevent against any sort of explosive. There are even homes with security protections in case of a chemical attack, including a pop-up tent that is designed to provide a safe haven for anyone who may be worried about a chemical-based intrusion.

AJ Dellinger
AJ Dellinger is a freelance reporter from Madison, Wisconsin with an affinity for all things tech. He has been published by…
Stay cool this summer with these smart home tips and tricks
Ikea's Fyrtur smart home blind

Warmer weather is finally arriving in most locations across the country, bringing with it pool parties, summer vacations, and plenty of outdoor fun. And if you're looking for a way to make your life easier this summer, now's a great time to upgrade your smart home. From adding a smart thermostat to your home to installing a smart sprinkler system, there are plenty of ways to build a smart home that's designed to handle the summer heat.

Ready to save money on your electric and water bills? Here's are ideas on how to upgrade your smart home this summer, as well as other tips to help around the home.
Upgrade to smart shades

Read more
Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam vs. Wyze Cam Pan v3: Which is the better pan-tilt camera?
The Pan-Tilt mounted on a wall.

An indoor camera capable of panning and tilting is one of the best ways to improve the security of your home. These devices make it easy to capture all corners of a room with a single device, making them a cost-effective way to keep tabs on a property. The Wyze Cam Pan v3 is one of the cheapest options on the market, but Ring has recently launched its own Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam that's quickly become popular with shoppers.

But is the expensive Ring Pan-Tilt Indoor Cam better than the Wyze Cam Pan v3? Or should you save yourself a few bucks and opt for the cheaper security camera? Here's a look at both to help you decide.
Pricing and monthly fees

Read more
This is what Google Maps’ big redesign looks like
Redesigned Google maps.

Redesigned Google Maps app Google

In recent years, Google Maps has felt like it's an afterthought to Google. As Apple Maps continues to improve with better navigation, cleaner transit layers, and better information, Google Maps has lagged. That’s why we’re thrilled about the redesigned Google Maps app that Google showcased at Google I/O 2024.

Read more