In the smart home market, many view the app-based video door entry phone as something of a ‘must-have’ item, despite such solutions having been available in the security industry for some time. Now Mobotix has launched an app which allows the use of a mobile device as a client for its door videophone devices.
What is it?
One of the popular IoT options being offered to consumers today is the video doorbell which can be connected to a mobile app. This enables homeowners to communicate with visitors via a smartphone when at home or away from the premises.
As anyone with a background in access control or video management will know, there’s nothing new about this. However, the security sector has arguably been slow in offering such solutions to the general public. Now that the demand has been revealed, a growing number of manufacturers are offering such solutions.
Mobotix recently released MxBell, a smartphone application which is designed to allow the use of a mobile device as a remote viewing control panel for the range of Mobotix IP video door stations. It can be used in combination with the static MxDisplay+ viewing stations, allowing greater user flexibility.
The app allows the end user to receive real-time notifications when the door station is activated. They can also use it to communicate with visitors, and if required can open the door from the mobile device. It is also possible to activate the door camera and view live footage, even if there is no caller and the door station has not manually activated. This enhances general security and also adds value for users.
How does it work?
The MxBell app sends push notifications to a user’s smartphone or tablet when the call button on the door station is activated. Push notification messages from MxBell will appear on the smart device even when the application is not open.
How do I get it?
MxBell can be downloaded free of charge from Apple’s App Store and from Google Play.
Configuration is intuitive and user-friendly. It requires an internet connection and users must configure their router for incoming data traffic, create a dynamic DNS account and enable port forwarding before they can access door stations and cameras.
MxBell is compatible with iOS 8 or higher and Android 4.4 or higher.