Amazon Rolls Out Home Security Services For Alexa

Amazon has launched home security services for Alexa in select areas.

According to CNET, the service starts at $575, which includes professional installation. There are no monthly fees.

The service is available through the Amazon Home Services umbrella. Most packages include an Echo Dot smart speaker to control everything using voice commands, as well as Alexa-friendly gadgets like the Wink Hub 2 and the Ring Video Doorbell.

Amazon acquired Ring earlier this year for $1 billion to expand its reach in the home security market. The company is expected to maintain Ring as a standalone business, with a Ring spokesperson explaining that the company will “be able to achieve even more by partnering with an inventive, customer-centric company like Amazon. We look forward to being a part of the Amazon team as we work toward our vision for safer neighborhoods.”

With this latest service, there are currently five packages available to customers in select states. Some focus on security, while others center around smart outdoor lighting or devices for renters.

The “Smart” package, which retails for $575, includes the Amazon Echo Dot, Ring Video Doorbell, Wink Hub 2, a motion sensor, a 105dB siren, and two contact sensors for doors and windows. The “Smartest” package includes all of the above, as well as extra smart lighting, water sensors and CO sensors. It retails for $840.

Once a customer buys a package, a certified Amazon expert will come to the home for a consult to figure out exactly which devices are needed and where they should be installed. Once everything ships, a professional installer will come to the home for installation, as well as to explain how to use the devices.

The service acts as a voice-activated alarm system — Alexa can even simulate the sound of dogs barking or the radio playing while a user is away to make it appear as if someone is home. One thing the service doesn’t appear to offer is live, professional monitoring.