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Are the Cync Indoor and Outdoor Cameras wire-free?

The indoor camera uses a USB power adapter that must be plugged into an outlet, so it’s always on and ready to detect what’s happening. It uses Wi-Fi to connect to the cloud and enable live-streaming, real-time alerts, and clip recording.

The outdoor camera has two versions, a battery-powered outdoor camera and a wired outdoor camera. The wired outdoor camera must be plugged into an outlet. The battery-powered outdoor camera requires it’s battery to be charged.

What is the length of the electrical cord? 

How does the camera save user videos?

Data privacy is extremely important to us. We are giving our users two options based on their personal preferences. You can use a microSD card (sold separately) which allows you to store video locally on the camera and retrieve it securely via the Cync app. Alternatively, the Cam Cync subscription allows video to be backed up and accessed from anywhere via secure cloud storage. For an extra layer of security, two-factor authentication is always required when using the Cync app to view live streams or stored clips.

Does the camera require a subscription or a monthly fee? 

No. Users without a Cam Cync subscription can still view live video, use two-way talk, filter alerts by sound, motion, or people detection, and other great features. Adding a Cam Cync subscription or an optional microSD card for local storage (sold separately) enables clip recording so you never miss a moment.

Can I buy one subscription for multiple cameras, or do I need a subscription for each Cync camera? 

Each camera requires its own subscription at this time.

Cync Smart Cameras User Guide

Read More : 4K Smart Deterrence IP Camera Installation Guide

Do the Cync Indoor and Outdoor Cameras work with voice assistants? 

The cameras work with Alexa and Google. First, pair the camera to the Cync app. Then, enable Alexa or Google through the Alexa or Google Home apps.

Can I view the livestream through the Alexa app and its voice assistant? 

You can view your camera’s livestream through the Alexa app and the Alexa voice assistants that have a screen, like the Alexa Show. You can also enable two-way talk via compatible Alexa devices.

Can the camera be used at night? 

Yes, our camera has automatic night vision included so you can capture videos at nighttime. Note that placing the camera looking through a window will cause issues when using night vision. If using the camera in this way, we suggest turning off the night vision feature in settings.

Why is there a light ring halo when using night vision? 

This happens when you don’t remove the protective cover on the front camera shutter. Remove this cover and the light ring halo will go away.  

Does the camera record and send notifications when motion is detected? 

Yes, when motion is detected the camera will begin recording and send a notification to Cync users who share access to the camera within the Cync app.

Will the camera only notify me if a person is detected, or does it notify me for all motion activity?

You can choose to be notified of sound and/or motion events. You can additionally enable person detection, which filters motion alerts so that they are only triggered when a person is detected (as opposed to a tree branch moving or a dog walking in front of the camera).

Can I view multiple live feeds at the same time? 

Yes! On the home screen of your Cync app, you can see live preview videos of multiple cameras at once.

Who can view my camera feeds? 

Only the Admin can view the camera live feeds. Guests are unable to view or access cameras.

Can I use the Cync Cameras without Wi-Fi? 

No, a 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network connected to the internet is required to use the camera. Note that very slow internet speeds will likely impact the functionality of the camera, such as issues loading live streams or recording clips with the Cam Cync subscription.

Can I manually record video or take pictures?

Yes, there are buttons to both take a screenshot as well as record a video when viewing the live stream. These images and videos are stored to your phone’s camera roll.

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Will my Indoor or Outdoor Camera continue to record locally from my SD Card after losing Wi-Fi?

As long as your device was commissioned prior to losing WiFi connection, your camera will continue to record clips locally to the SD card.

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Why can’t I view my Cync camera’s live feed in the Google Home application?

In order to view live feed from your Cync Camera on the Home app, Google requires a Chromecast or Smart Display to access the camera’s feed.

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Indoor Camera FAQs

Can I use this camera outdoors? 

No, the Cync Indoor Camera is rated for indoor use only. 

Can I control the privacy shutter from my phone? 

The physical privacy shutter on the camera can only be controlled from the physical camera. However, you can enable and disable privacy mode from the Cync app when the physical privacy shutter is not pushed up and blocking the camera lens.

Can the Cync Indoor Camera be placed facing out a window to capture outside activity? 

Yes, but automatic night vision will cause image distortion when the camera is facing out of a window due to reflection. If placing the camera in this way, we suggest turning off night vision in settings.

Can I mount the camera on a ceiling? 

Yes! You can mount the camera on a ceiling, and you can enable a 180-degree image flip in the settings menu to show the image right-side up in the app.

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Outdoor Camera FAQs

What is the Wi-Fi range for this Outdoor Camera? 

Keep the camera in a strong Wi-Fi signal strength. Check your Wi-Fi signal strength at the camera’s location. You can do this by looking at the Wi-Fi signal strength on your phone. 1 or 2 bars indicates that the signal may not be strong enough for the camera to connect, or remain connected consistently.

What is the maximum and minimum temperature the plug can be in? 

Operating temp: -20 ~ 50C

Storage temp： -20~70C

Can I plug it into an outdoor extension cord? 

The Outdoor Wired Camera comes with a 24ft wire, but an outdoor extension cord can be used.

How long does the battery on the Outdoor Battery Camera last? 

Battery Life is estimated to last about 90 days per charge under normal circumstances. Number of detections, live streaming, Wi-Fi strength and connectivity as well as temperature can impact the battery life. To conserve your battery life, review the information below:

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Ways to Save Battery Life

Cync battery camera is designed to go months for full charge. However, the real battery life is dependent on camera settings, app settings, and the user’s home environment. For issues with battery performance, check for the following factors.

Recording Duration

The default Recording Duration is 30s. You can reduce the value to save battery life.

Detection Settings

The more events captured/recorded by your battery camera, the more battery is used. To prevent excessive activity, you can:

What to do:

Wi-Fi Connectivity

Poor Wi-Fi connection will cause the battery to drain too fast.

Symptoms of Poor Wi-Fi Connection:

What to do:

Avoid Cold Weather

Cold weather can reduce battery performance as well. The Cync outdoor battery camera use Lithium-ion batteries.

Cold weather has a big impact on battery performance.

What to do:

Installing Outdoor Cameras

The Cync Outdoor Camera can be mounted to wall and adjusted for the best view. Proper steps for mounting depend on the outdoor camera type.

Quickly navigate to a specific section by selecting a link below.

Outdoor Wired Camera Mounting
Outdoor Battery Camera Mounting
 

IMPORTANT: Set the Outdoor Camera up in the Cync app before installation.

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Outdoor Wired Camera Mounting

As the Outdoor Wired Camera will be mounted roughly 7-8ft off of the ground, the camera should be plugged in inside and setup in the Cync app then moved to its permanent outside location.

Install Mounting Bracket

1.After completing setup in the Cync app, choose your mounting location. Use the Cync app’s Wi-Fi signal strength indicator to ensure you’re within Wi-Fi range.

2.Hold mounting bracket in position and mark the hole locations with a pencil.

3.Drill holes with 1/8″ drill bit.

4.Insert screws and mount to wall or soffit, being sure that the arrow on the mount is facing up as shown below.

Attach the Camera to the Mounted Base

5.Identify the two notches at the bottom of the mounting plate.

6.Route the cord through the notches so that the cord going to the outlet is flush with the wall.

7.Align the red notch on the base of your camera with the red notch on the mounting plate.

8.Slide the camera base onto the mounting plate until it clicks into place.

Plug in Camera and Finish Setup

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Outdoor Battery Powered Camera Mounting

Before installation and app setup, assure your camera’s battery is fully charged.

Install Mounting Bracket

1.After completing setup in the Cync app, choose your mounting location. Use the Cync app’s Wi-Fi signal strength indicator to ensure you’re within Wi-Fi range.

2.Hold mounting bracket in position and mark the hole locations with a pencil.

3.Drill holes with 1/8″ drill bit.

4.Insert screws and mount to wall or soffit, being sure that the arrow on the mount is facing up as shown below.

Attach the Camera and Adjust the Position

5.Align the red notch on the base of your camera with the red notch on the mounting plate.

6.Slide the base of the camera onto the mounting plate.

7.Turn the camera base counterclockwise to loosen the ball joint.

8.Adjust the camera to your desired angle (use the camera view in the Cync app to verify your view before locking the ball joint).

9.Turn the neck of the camera clockwise to tighten the ball joint and lock your camera in place.

Recharging and Replacing the Battery

• Recharging

1.Gently pull the camera to detach the magnet from the mounting bracket.

2.Insert one end of the charging cord into the USB port on bottom of the battery. Plug the opposite end of the charging cord into an outlet.

3.For faster charging, remove the battery from the camera and insert the charging cord directly into the battery and an outlet.
NOTE: A full recharge will take an estimated 6 – 8 hours. Charging the battery inside of the camera housing may take longer. The battery LED will change from red to green when charging is complete.

• Battery Replacement

1.Gently pull off the camera to detach the magnet from the mounting bracket.

2.Squeeze the buttons on both side of the camera to release the camera face.

3.Slide up the battery pack to remove it from the camera.

4.Insert one end of the charging cord into the USB port on bottom of the battery. Plug the opposite end of the charging cord into an outlet.

• Wired Cameras Only

◦ Plug the camera into a covered outlet and secure the power cord tightly to avoid water penetration.

◦ Mount within 24′ of an outlet.

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Helpful Hints

Setting Up Outdoor Cameras

How to Set Up your Cync Outdoor Camera in the Cync App

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Connecting Outdoor Cameras to the Cync app

Review, save and share clips with Cam Cync, and/or to a microSD card (sold separately).

Helpful Hints

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Ways To Save Battery Life

The Cync Battery Outdoor Camera is designed to last several months on a full charge. However, camera settings, app settings, and the user’s home environment can all affect the battery’s life. For tips on improving battery performance, see the factors below.

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Troubleshooting Tips

Unable to scan the QR code in Cync app

The Cync App is Unable to Locate My Wi-Fi Network

The Cync App is Unable to Connect to My Wi-Fi Network

Unable to connect to Outdoor Camera Live Stream

Note: Live streams will not appear on the Cync app until you select the video.

Videos are not recording

Note: Recorded clips can only be viewed via the Cync app. You will not be able to view clips saved onto the SD card on other devices.

Video stream is inverted

Camera recordings are not capturing audio

Factory Reset Indoor Camera 

Factory Reset Outdoor Camera 

Controlling Indoor Cameras

You can control your Cync Indoor Camera with the Cync app to monitor your home with ease.

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Cync Indoor Camera Controls and Buttons

Indoor Camera

Indoor Camera Privacy Shutter

Slide the Privacy Shutter up to turn on privacy mode. This will disable the camera and no longer record video or audio. Slide the Privacy Shutter back down to enable video and audio again.

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How to Control Indoor Cameras with the Cync app

When you’ve accessed the Indoor Camera screen you will have options to control the camera.

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Troubleshooting Tips

Unable to scan the QR code in Cync app

The Cync App is Unable to Locate My Wi-Fi Network

The Cync App is Unable to Connect to My Wi-Fi Network

Unable to connect to Indoor Camera Live Stream

Videos are not recording

Note: Recorded clips can only be viewed via the Cync app. You will not be able to view clips saved onto the SD card on other devices.

Video stream is inverted

Camera recordings are not capturing audio

Accessing and Sharing Camera Video Clips

Learn how to access your camera’s video clips from a local Micro SD card or your Cam Cync cloud subscription to share with others.

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Saving Video Clips

You can view and access your video clips by saving them on an SD card or through a Cloud Subscription.

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Cloud Subscriptions

A Cync Cloud Subscription is a paid service to view and store your video clips. For more information, visit Cloud Subscriptions.

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Micro SD Cards

A Micro SD Card is required to view and store video clips if there is no active Cloud Subscription.

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Accessing Video Clips

The location of your stored video clips may vary based on the type of storage the camera has. Review the locations below to learn how to access your video clips.

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Active Cam Cync Subscription or SD Card

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Inactive Cam Cync Subscription and No SD Card

Clips cannot be accessed without an active storage method. If you wish to purchase a Cam Cync Subscription for cloud storage, follow the link provided to learn more.

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Downloading and Sharing Video Clips (Cloud Subscription Only)

Downloading and sharing video clips vary between the operating system your phone has. This feature is only available if you are using the Cloud Subscription service. Locate your phone’s operating system below to learn how to download and share your video clips.

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Downloading and Sharing on iOS

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Downloading and Sharing on Android

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Camera Subscriptions

Easily and securely store clips from your Cync Camera to the cloud with a Cam Cync subscription.

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Free 30-Day Trial

Immediately after setting up your Indoor Camera, you will receive a free 30-day trial of backup video storage on Cam Cync. The free trial includes: 

NOTE: If you don’t subscribe before the 30-day trial period ends, you’ll no longer automatically record new clips and you’ll lose access to previously recorded footage after 14 days.

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Subscriptions

After your 30-day trial you have the option to sign up for a monthly or annual Cam Cync subscription.

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How to Subscribe

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Cancelling a Subscription

You can cancel a subscription at any time, which will stop your next automatic renewal from occurring. You can cancel your subscription in the Cync Web Portal. After cancelling your subscription, your service will remain active until the end of your currently paid period (the end of your monthly or annual term). At the end of that period, your subscription will end and video will no longer be recorded to the cloud. Your clips will remain viewable for the normal 14-day storage period.

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Troubleshooting

What should I do if I can’t log into the Web Portal?

My payment method is failing. What should I do?

Installing Indoor Cameras

Easily install the Cync Indoor Camera on a flat surface or mounted to a wall.

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Setting Indoor Camera on Flat Surface

If you are setting the camera on a shelf, or flat surface, remove the mounting bracket at the base of the camera.

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Mounting Indoor Camera to Wall

If you are mounting your Indoor Camera to a wall, follow the steps below.

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Helpful Hints

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<p>The post Cync Smart Cameras User Guide first appeared on NVR IPCAMERA SECURITY.</p>

You can connect your compatible Amazon Echo, Echo Show, Fire TV, or Fire Tablet to your Ring device and use Alexa voice commands to do the following (and more):

*Ring Alarm and all Ring Alarm accessories require a subscription for digital notifications, in-app features, digital arming/disarming, and integration with other Ring, Echo, and third party products. Subscription sold separately. View ring.com/protect-plans for pricing and details.

See which Alexa-enabled devices are compatible with Ring

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Connect your Ring device to your Alexa-enabled device

First, you’ll need to download the Alexa app on your mobile device or tablet. Get the Alexa app from the Apple App Store (iOS devices), or the Google Play Store (Android devices).

You may also need to update your mobile device’s operating system.

If you already have the Ring app you’ll need to ensure you have the latest version. 

Next, follow these steps to add Ring as a Skill in the Alexa app:

Note: If your Ring devices do not appear after you tap Discover Devices, you can say, “Alexa, discover my devices,” or tap the Devices icon at the bottom right corner of the Alexa app.

Connecting Amazon Alexa-Enabled Devices with Ring Devices

Read More : Ring Alarm Setup Guides and Manuals

Activate chime notifications on your Alexa-enabled device

Once you’ve connected your Ring doorbell to your Alexa-enabled device, you can set up chime notifications to get an alert on your Echo or Fire TV device when someone presses your doorbell.

Follow these steps to get Chime Notifications:

Note: Make sure each Alexa device you enable for Chime Notifications has Communication and Announcements enabled and the Do Not Disturb feature turned off in the Alexa app.

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Activate Ring Intercom notifications on your Alexa-enabled device

Once you’ve connected your Ring Intercom to your Alexa-enabled device, you can set up Ring Intercom notifications to get an alert on your Echo or Fire TV device when someone buzzes your Ring Intercom.

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Answer the door or Ring Intercom with Alexa

After you’ve connected your Ring doorbell or Ring Intercom to your Alexa-enabled device, you can answer the door and speak to your visitors through your Echo or Fire TV device.

To speak to your visitor, you can say:

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Configure unlock by voice for your Ring Intercom

Follow the steps to enable unlock by voice and create a voice code

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Unlock your building entrance using Alexa with Ring Intercom

To unlock the building door using Alexa, say Alexa, unlock [Ring Intercom Name]. Alexa will then ask you for your voice code to complete the action.

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Get Live View from your Ring camera with Alexa

If you have an Echo Show, Fire TV, or Fire Tablet, you can use Alexa commands to view the live video stream from your Ring doorbell or security camera.

To get a live view from your Ring camera, you can say:

To stop the live video feed, you can say:

Note: “Front Door” is an example and may differ from the location labels that you assigned to your device(s) during setup. Other examples – backyard, side door, garage, etc.

Read Next  :Reolink NVR Setup Guide

Arm and disarm your modes

You can ask your Alexa-enabled device to change the mode to disarmed or armed* for your Ring devices, including cameras and Ring Alarm.

*Ring Alarm and all Ring Alarm accessories require a subscription for digital notifications, in-app features, digital arming/disarming, and integration with other Ring, Echo, and third party products. Subscription sold separately. View ring.com/protect-plans for pricing and details.

Click here to learn how to arm and disarm your Ring devices with Alexa.

To learn more about Ring Modes, click here. 

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 Control which Alexa devices can access Live View on your Ring devices

Once you’ve connected your Ring device(s) to Alexa, you can change which Alexa devices have access to Live View at any time in the Ring app.

Note
If you enabled the Ring Skill on an Amazon/Alexa account that is not linked to your Ring account, the Alexa devices will not be listed here. If you wish to remove access to your Ring account for those Alexa devices, you can do so from the associated Amazon/Alexa account.

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Ring and Alexa troubleshooting tips

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Downloading and Updating the Ring App

Learn how to download the Ring app and update your mobile device’s version of the Ring app. 

Downloading the Ring app for your mobile device

The Ring app is available for phones and tablets in the Apple and Google Play stores.

You can also visit ring.com/app to directly download the Ring app on your mobile phone.

Learn how to create a Ring account

Updating the Ring app on your mobile phone

For the latest features and fixes, make sure to update the Ring app to the latest version. To get started, choose your mobile device’s operating system below:

Troubleshooting your Ring app update

If you’re having trouble getting the latest version of the Ring app, here are a few things to try. 

Make sure your mobile device is on wifi.
If you have poor cellular signal, your mobile device may be pausing your update until it’s on wifi. Try connecting to a wifi network.

Make sure your mobile device has enough storage.
For apps to update, most mobile devices require 3-5 GB (gigabytes) of space. Try backing up your photos and videos to the cloud, or uninstalling apps you don’t use.

Confirm your mobile device is compatible to update.
If you have iOS 13 (or lower) or Android 8 (or lower), your mobile device’s operating system may be unable to use the Ring app. Since the release of these operating system versions, we’ve made significant security updates to help protect your Ring account. 
Learn more about Compatible Mobile Devices

Restart your mobile device.
Sometimes phones and tablets just need to be restarted. After restart, attempt to update the Ring app again in your settings or app store.

Uninstall and reinstall the Ring app. 
If you uninstall the Ring app on your mobile device then reinstall the Ring app from your app store, you will download the latest version. Don’t worry, you won’t lose access to your Ring videos, settings, and Event History.

Note
If your mobile device is operating on iOS 13 (or lower) or Android 8 (or lower), you may not be able to reinstall the Ring app.

Arming, Disarming, and Setting Modes on your Ring Alarm

Arming, Disarming, and Setting Modes on your Ring Alarm

Security modes

These three modes on your Ring Alarm will protect your home in different ways. You can switch between them depending on your needs.¹

Disarmed Mode

In this mode, no sensors in your home will be monitored and no alerts will be sent to the monitoring station. Your Alarm system will still be powered on and functioning.

Use this mode when you’re at home and want the freedom to easily go in and out of your house. Fire and CO sensors (if they are attached to the system) will still be monitored.²

Home Mode

In this mode, only your perimeter sensors (doors and windows) will be monitored. Use this when you’d like to move freely inside your home. You can control which sensors are monitored in Home Mode by setting them in your Ring app:

Away Mode

In this mode, all your sensors are monitored and an alert is issued if any of them are triggered. Use Away Mode to secure your home when you’re leaving it and will be out. You can control which sensors will be monitored in Away Mode by setting them in your Ring app:

¹ Ring Alarm and all Ring Alarm accessories require a subscription for digital notifications, in-app features, digital arming/disarming, and integration with other Ring, Echo, and third party products. Subscription sold separately. View ring.com/protect-plans for pricing and details.

² A compatible Ring Protect subscription is required to enroll in the Ring Alarm professional monitoring service. Professional monitoring service is available only within the U.S. (all 50 states, but not U.S. territories) and in Canada (excluding Quebec). Ring does not own its own professional monitoring center. Smoke and carbon monoxide monitoring is not available for a business or commercially zoned address. See Ring alarm licenses at: ring.com/licenses. Additional permit or false alarm fees may apply depending on your local jurisdiction. Additional charges may apply in areas that require permits or guard response service for alarm verification.

Arming your system

To arm your system using the Ring app¹

To arm your system using the Alarm Keypad

When you’ve changed your mode, your Alarm system begins a countdown. This is an Exit Delay, and it gives you time to leave your home before the system arms itself.

You can set an Exit Delay of 0 to 180 seconds:

¹ Ring Alarm and all Ring Alarm accessories require a subscription for digital notifications, in-app features, digital arming/disarming, and integration with other Ring, Echo, and third party products. Subscription sold separately. View ring.com/protect-plans for pricing and details.

Disarming your system

To disarm your system using the Ring app¹

To disarm your system using the Keypad

When you enter your home, your Alarm system begins a countdown. This is an Entry Delay, and it gives you time to disarm the system before it goes off.

You can set an Entry Delay of 0 to 180 seconds:

¹ Ring Alarm and all Ring Alarm accessories require a subscription for digital notifications, in-app features, digital arming/disarming, and integration with other Ring, Echo, and third party products. Subscription sold separately. View ring.com/protect-plans for pricing and details.

Panic alarm

This feature lets you send a panic alarm to the monitoring station anytime. To turn it on, press and hold the ✓ and X buttons on the Keypad simultaneously for 3 seconds.

The Keypad will then send an instant alarm signal to the hub, the Keypad LED Ring will quickly blink red three times, and the speaker will play the panic alarm sound.

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<p>The post Ring Devices Amazon Alexa Connecting Guide first appeared on NVR IPCAMERA SECURITY.</p>

Blink products do not support, or make use of Amazon Sidewalk
To learn more about Amazon Sidewalk and how Alexa devices make use of this service please click to visit the Amazon Sidewalk website. You can also click to visit the Alexa Sidewalk Help Page to learn how to enable or disable the service.

Content Links

Blink SmartHome Skill

Supported Alexa Devices

How to Set up Alexa for Blink devices

Alexa security voice code

Alexa Voice Commands

Frequently Asked Questions

Troubleshooting

Blink SmartHome Skill

Blink SmartHome is an Alexa skill that allows you to conveniently access Blink cameras with just your voice! Easily connect to your Alexa account from the Blink app, then your devices will be automatically discovered.

The features of this skill are available on Echo Dot, Spot, Show, Tap, Fire TV, Stick, Cube and Fire Tablets as shown in the following table. Click for a table of voice commands.

Please note that the Blink SmartHome Skill is currently only available in the US, Canada, UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Spain.

Supported Alexa Devices

Here are the Alexa devices that are currently compatible with the Blink SmartHome skill. Some features may only be available on certain devices.

Supported Blink Accessories

Blink Floodlight Mount

Supported Non-Screen Devices

Echo Gen 1, 2
Echo Dot Gen 4 With clock and Alexa
Echo Dot Gen 4 (2020 release)
Echo Dot Gen 2, 3
Echo Plus Gen 2, 3
Echo Studio Gen 2, 3
Echo Tap (does not support Motion Announcements)

Supported Screen Devices – (camera audio is listen only)

Echo Show 15
Echo Show 10 Gen 3
Echo Show Gen 2
New Echo Show 8
Echo Show 8
All New Echo Show 5 Gen 2, 2021 release
New Echo Show 5 Kids Gen 2
Echo Show 5
Echo Show Gen 1
Echo Spot
Fire Tablets Fire HD 8, Fire HD 10, Fire 7″, Fire 8″, Fire 10″
Fire TV Edition Fire TV Gen 1, 2, Element 4k, Toshiba 4k, Insignia 4k, Toshiba HD, Insignia HD
Fire TV Stick Fire TV Stick 4k, Fire TV with Alexa Voice Command
Fire TV Cube

 

How to Set up Alexa for Blink devices

1. Open the Blink app, tap the Settings iconin the bottom right of the screen and select Account and Privacy.
   
2. Tap “Link to Alexa” under Linked Accounts.
   
3. Tap “Open Alexa App” and you are taken to the Blink SmartHome skill page in the Alexa app.
   
4. Tap “ENABLE TO USE” and you are sent to the Link Account Sign-In page.
   
5.  Enter the email address and password of your Blink account. Then tap the “Sign In” button.
   
6. By default, multiple factor authentication asks you to confirm a PIN code we sent to your mobile device. Enter the code and tap “Verify Code”.
   If you have not received a code within 2 minutes, tap “Resend Code”.
   
7. The Alexa app communicates with Blink account servers, and then displays a message saying, “Your Blink SmartHome account has been successfully linked.”
   Tap “CLOSE” to begin device discovery in the Alexa app.
   
8. Tap “DISCOVER DEVICES” to allow Alexa access.
   
9. After about 45 seconds, the Setup screen appears informing you that devices have been found and connected with the Blink SmartHome Skill. Tap “NEXT” to begin setting one up.
   
   Note: Occasionally, the app message will say that no new devices were discovered. In that case, tap the Devices icon on lower right of the screen for a list of known devices.
10. The SETUP screen shows you new connected devices.
    
11. Tap on one of the devices you want to configure for use by Alexa.
    In this example, the “House” camera is selected.Tap “SET UP DEVICE”.
    
12. Since Blink home security systems can be armed and disarmed from Alexa, you are asked to create a 4-digit “voice code” to confirm you are the owner of the account. When you ask Alexa to disarm your system, she asks you to say the voice code numbers. There is one voice code per system.Tap “SKIP” to not have Alexa disarm your systems.
    Tap “NEXT” to create a new voice code.
    
13. Type in the four digit voice code and then confirm the same code again in the next screen.
     
14. Now, you are presented with a confirmation screen. You are shown the control phrase to use with this camera and you can tap “CONTINUE” to return to adding more discovered devices.If there are no more devices to configure, you are taken to the Alexa app main screen.
    
15. If you have more devices available, you are returned to the connected device SETUP screen. The device you just configured is no longer on the list, and you are able to select another device to repeat the process.
    
16. When all of the devices have been configured, you are shown a final confirmation screen, tap “DONE”.
    
17. From the Alexa main screen, you are told how many devices were discovered (“7” in this example). You can tap the alert to see them, you can also tap the “Cameras” icon , or tap “Devices” in the app footer, to view your configured devices.
    
18. Tapping “Cameras” opens a screen showing all of your configured cameras. Tap the one you wish to view details of.
    
    Note: Alexa has it’s ‘own’ Live view feature that Blink cameras do not use, and that is why you see “Live view not supported on this device.” Blink Outdoor, Indoor (gen 2), and Mini cameras support Blink’s Live View feature when you ask “Alexa, show me the <camera name>.”
    The Blink Video Doorbell does use Alexa’s Live View feature – see step 21.
19. Alexa Settings screen for Blink cameras.
    

    	Camera name Phrase to use
    	Connected Alexa devices Motion Announcements On/Off Battery interaction settings
    	Connected to Blink Description of the device Type of Device If this camera is active for Alexa

20. Alexa Settings for the Blink Video Doorbell
    If you tap a doorbell entry and see a Live View session, tap the gear iconin the upper right, to access settings.
    
    Two Alexa settings for the Blink Video Doorbell control what events Alexa responds to.
    • Motion Announcements (off  on)
      Alexa says “Motion detected at your <Camera Name>.”
    • Doorbell Press Notifications (off  on)
      Alexa says “Someone is at your <Doorbell Name>.”

    Enable your Devices
    Blink devices must be “Enabled” to allow Alexa interactions with your system.

    Note: The settings here only control Alexa interactions. Turning “Motion Announcements” to “On” in the Alexa app settings does not “Arm” your Blink camera system. However, it does let Alexa announce events that happen when your Blink camera system is armed. Click for more information on arming your system for Motion Detection.‍

The Alexa Voice Code

 The Alexa Voice Code is part of first set up of the Blink Skill.

When you ask Alexa to disarm a system, you are asked for the four digit voice code, which is created by you in the Alexa app. If Alexa has not been configured to Disarm your system, Alexa asks you to visit the System Settings, then activate and configure the “Disarm by voice” feature.

Open the Alexa app, and tap “All Devices”.

From the All Devices screen, you can find Blink systems by the shield icon .
Tap the system you want to enable for Alexa Disable command.

From the system device SETTINGS screen, tap the “Disarm by voice” toggle.

A popup confirms you want to allow Alexa to disarm your security system by voice.
Tap “OK”.

You are presented with a number pad to create your voice code with. Type in four numbers that you will remember when you ask Alexa to disarm your system.
Enter the same code in the Confirm screen that follows.

 
Now, you are presented with a confirmation screen that shows the control phrase to use with this system.

Tap “CONTINUE” to finish installing and get to the Alexa app main screen.

Alexa Voice Commands

Alexa requires you to say the exact name of the system or device that you want to control. The exception is if you have only a Blink brand security system, and one camera system on that account.

To have Alexa Disarm your system, it needs to have the “Disarm by voice” option set in the System Settings. To view the System Settings, tap ALL DEVICES tab in the Alexa app, and your Systems are shown next to a shield icon . For more information, visit the section above.

Non screen devices

Screen devices

Accessories

If you have only a Blink brand security system on your Alexa account, with only one camera system.

Action	What to say	Result
Arm	“Alexa, Arm.”	Camera system is armed.
Disarm	“Alexa, Disarm.”	Alexa asks “What’s your voice code for <System Name>?”

If you have more than one system, you must say the exact system or camera name.

Action	What to say	Result
Arm	“Alexa, Arm <System Name>.”	Camera system is armed.
Disarm	“Alexa, Disarm <System Name>.”	Alexa asks “What’s your voice code for <System Name>?”
	“Alexa, Disarm <System Name>, my pin is ####.”	Alexa disarms the system.
Status	“Alexa, ask Blink to get my status” “Alexa, ask Blink what’s my status” OR “Alexa, is <System Name> armed?” “Alexa, is <System Name> disarmed?”Note: This command does not function on cameras using Local Storage to record directly to a Sync Module 2 with attached USB drive.
Detailed Status	“Alexa, ask Blink what my detailed status is.”  “Alexa, ask Blink to get my detailed status.” (includes last motion clip details for each system) Note: This command does not function on cameras using Local Storage to record directly to a Sync Module 2 with attached USB drive.
Schedule	“Alexa, ask Blink to list my schedule.”  “Alexa, ask Blink what my schedule is.”
Motion Clip	“Alexa, ask Blink when was the last motion clip.”  “Alexa, ask Blink when was my last motion alert.”Note:This command does not function on cameras using Local Storage to record directly to a Sync Module 2 with attached USB drive.
Motion Clip Count	“Alexa, ask Blink, how many motion clips do I have?”  “Alexa, ask Blink, how many recordings do I have?”Note: This command does not function on cameras using Local Storage to record directly to a Sync Module 2 with attached USB drive.

Frequently Asked Questions

Alexa FAQ

Where can I download the Alexa app?

Alexa is available from Amazon in most mobile device app stores.

Amazon App Store

Apple App Store

Google Play Store

Microsoft Apps for Windows 10+

What is the “voice code” number?

To disarm a home security system, Alexa asks for a voice code that you create during device set up. Anyone asking Alexa to disarm a Blink system can provide the voice code if they know it.

During setup of the Blink SmartHome Skill, you are asked to enter your Blink login information to connect your accounts on the two services. In this process, a code is sent to the account phone number by text message, for verification. To confirm you are the Blink account owner, enter the code provided by Blink.

The Blink code is not related to the “voice code” that you create in the Alexa app.

 

Do Alexa Routines work with Blink SmartHome?

Alexa Routines are enabled for the Blink SmartHome skill.

Learn more about Alexa Routine Triggers‍.

 

How do you enable motion detection notifications for Alexa?

Notifications of motion detection are currently supported for Alexa devices.

Learn more about Motion Announcements.

Note: Alexa does not provide announcements for cameras using Local Storage to record clips directly to a Sync Module 2 with attached USB drive.

Why are Live Views saving as clips when that setting is disabled in the Blink app?

You can activate a Live View session from a camera that uses Cloud Storage by saying: “Alexa, show me <Camera Name>.” Live Views show in the Alexa device for five minutes unless cancelled manually.

If you have the System Setting of “Save all Live Views” active when you ask Alexa to show you a camera on that system, the entire Live View is saved in Cloud Storage.

Does Blink SmartHome Skill support Auto Live View with Doorbell press or motion detection?

No, currently the Blink SmartHome skill does not automatically stream live view when the Blink Video Doorbell is pressed or motion detection is triggered. On Alexa devices with a screen, saying “Alexa, show me <Camera Name>.”  begins a Live View session.

For Video Doorbells that are part of a subscription and connected to a Sync Module or powered wiring, you enter a Live View session when you tap the doorbell entry in the Alexa “Cameras” screen.

Note: Live View from an Alexa command is not available when the Blink Video Doorbell is in Event Response mode.

Do Alexa routines work with older Blink devices?

The XT and Indoor (gen 1) cameras are not supported on some “Alexa Built-in” devices like newer smart TVs, the Alexa PC app, and other clients that use the Alexa web player.

Troubleshooting

Be sure that you have the latest version of the Blink app, and that your Alexa device is also updated. Find and select “Check for Software Updates” under “Device Options” in the Alexa app.

“Sorry, cameras don’t work on this device.”

If you come across this error message, this may mean that the voice command is not supported by the type of Alexa device you have integrated with the Blink SmartHome skill.

To resolve this, verify what type of Alexa enabled device you are using to check its compatibility with the command(s) you were trying to issue. You can also make sure that each device has a unique name.

Viewing motion clips or Live View commands are supported only on the following devices: Echo Show, Spot, Fire Tablets (sold in the US), Fire TV, Stick, and Cube

Blink XT and Indoor (gen 1) cameras are not supported on some “Alexa Built-in” devices like newer smart TVs, the Alexa PC app, and other clients using the Alexa web player.

“Couldn’t find a device named <the Name you requested>.”

This error message occurs when Alexa has not discovered the device you are trying to control. Follow the steps to discover any new devices.

1. Open the Alexa app > Tap “Devices” > Tap “Cameras” > Check to ensure all of Blink devices are listed there.
2. If all Blink devices are not discovered, go to “Devices” > Tap “plus sign” located on upper right-hand corner > “Add Devices” > “Cameras” > “Discover Devices”

If you continue to experience issues with the command, please follow the below troubleshooting steps to delete and relink the “Blink SmartHome” skill:

1. Tap the “Curtain Menu” located on top left corner of the Alexa App.
2. Tap “Skill & Games” > “Your Skills” > locate “Blink SmartHome” and disable the skill.
3. Once the Blink SmartHome skill is disabled, tap “Devices”, located on bottom right corner.
4. Tap “Cameras” and select each one of Blink cameras listed, then delete each by tapping on the “Trash” icon.
5. After the Blink SmartHome skill is disabled all Blink devices are removed, follow the Enabling Blink SmartHome skill steps to re-link the skill.

“Please specify a system”

If you have multiple Blink systems set up on your account, and you say “Alexa, arm.” without saying exactly which system you want to control, you receive this response. Make sure to include the exact system name you want to control. For example, if you have a System named “Home”, say: “Alexa, arm Home”.

“Hmmmm, Camera is not responding” or “Ok. I’m not quite sure what went wrong” or just “OK”

This error message occurs if your devices are muted when you use a voice command “Alexa show me the camera name“. It is only an issue when the Echo Show has the firmware version 6.5.4.1 installed. The solution is to enable the microphone for that camera in the Blink app’s Live View settings.

Disarming the system instead of disabling the skill

Because it is a major event, Alexa needs a “voice code” to complete a command to disarm your Blink home security system.

Caution: Saying “Stop Blink” turns off the Blink SmartHome Skill entirely and you must Launch it again to use.

To disarm the single system on an account, say “Alexa, disarm, my pin is <####>.” and speak the PIN number that you set up in Alexa. If you do not include the pin number, Alexa asks you to provide it.

If you have more than one system on the account, include the exact system name in your request. As in, “Alexa, disarm <system name>, my pin is:” and speak the PIN number that you set up in Alexa.

If your system is named “House” and your PIN is “1234”, the request would be:
“Alexa, disarm House, my pin is 1234.”

<p>The post How to Set up Alexa for Blink devices first appeared on NVR IPCAMERA SECURITY.</p>