Comcast (NASDAQ:CMCSA) unveiled a new WiFi-enabled, HD, indoor/outdoor video camera for its smart home platform, Xfinity Home. The company also added voice control to its smart home platform and is redesigning its own core smart home devices while continuing to integrate third-party products from such manufacturers as August Home, Chamberlain, Lutron, and Nest.
The new xCam features a weather resistant seal, 109-degree field of view, HD video, and infrared night vision. The WiFi signal is routed through the power source instead of the camera to improve the overall range of connection and give users more flexibility where they put the device.
Customers can also add 24/7 video recording to review past footage for up to 10 days, view their live video feeds from anywhere and download video clips using the Xfinity Home app or portal, and create rules that trigger other smart home devices. The 24/7 option also includes motion-based recording and software to reduce false events like falling leaves or changes in lighting. The xCam is expected to be available to all Xfinity Home customers this summer.
The voice control features are available to Xfinity Home customers who also have the X1 video platform. Such subscribers can use the X1 voice controlled remote to access camera feeds via the TV set or say, "Xfinity Home Arm" or "Xfinity Home Disarm" to control their security system from the big screen.