Ring, known for its doorbell cameras, launches a home security drone and an enterprise security robot

Ring, known for its doorbell cameras, launches a home security drone and an enterprise security robot Amazon-owned home security company Ring has taken a significant step into the realm of robotics with the launch of its new division, Ring Robotics. This move marks a significant expansion of the company's product portfolio, which already includes a range of doorbell cameras, security systems, and other home security solutions. The new division is focused on developing robots that can be used to automate security at both the home and office levels. The company has announced two new devices as part of its launch: a home security drone and an enterprise security robot. The drone, known as the Ring Drone Cam, is designed to fly from room to room, inspecting the home and alerting users to any potential security threats. The robot, known as the Ring Rover Cam, is designed for businesses and can be set to patrol specific routes and times. The Ring Drone Cam The Ring Drone Cam is a flying indoor security camera that is designed to integrate with Ring's existing home security devices. The device can shoot video in 2K and features LED lights for low-light recording. It can be controlled via Amazon's Alexa Home Map and can be scheduled to patrol the home at specific times. The drone also features a docking bay, which allows it to stay inactive when not in use. The Ring Drone Cam is priced at $270, with a launch date set for January 27. It is the more affordable option of the two devices, but still represents a significant investment for a home security drone. The Ring Rover Cam The Ring Rover Cam is designed for businesses and can be set to patrol specific routes and times. The device streams video in continuous 4K and features a periscope camera that can be adjusted to see over obstacles. It also includes two-way audio, allowing users to communicate with individuals on the premises. The Ring Rover Cam is priced at $1,000, which represents a significant investment for a security robot. However, the company claims that the device can provide a level of security and peace of mind that traditional security measures cannot. AI Pilot and Take (Throw Away the Key Encryption) Both devices are powered by Ring's proprietary AI system, known as AI Pilot. This system is designed to leverage "specialized vision models, sensors, and cloud processing to see, think, and navigate autonomously." The company claims that the AI Pilot system will allow the devices to develop a detailed schematic of the home or office, allowing them to respond to security threats more effectively. The company has also announced the use of TAKE (Throw Away the Key Encryption), which it claims is its "strongest default encryption yet." However, it is unclear whether local video storage will be an option for users. Privacy Concerns The launch of these new devices has raised concerns about privacy, particularly given the invasive potential of both devices. Critics have long argued that Ring's cameras have created unofficial surveillance networks that police departments can tap into. It is likely that similar complaints will be lodged about the company's new products. However, Ring claims that both devices have been built with "privacy and security" baked into them. The company notes that the videos recorded by both devices are protected by TAKE encryption, and that the devices are designed to be secure and private. Conclusion Ring's launch of a home security drone and an enterprise security robot represents a significant step into the realm of robotics. While the devices are likely to be popular with users, concerns about privacy and security will likely be raised. The company's claims about the devices' privacy and security features will be closely watched, and it remains to be seen whether the devices will live up to their promises.