Is this the first step to a smart home?

[Sarah]

I was thinking of all the possibilities of a smart home and want to learn more, but then I started thinking about ring-type doorbells. Seems that would be my first option on a smart home. Since it is practical and an easy firsts step, that is probably what I would try first.
What about you?

 

[Alan]

I think it's the first step into a much bigger world, and possibly addiction.

I know we use a Reo Link doorbell, and previously had the Nest one for the longest time. It's nice to see who is at the door from the couch or if a package gets dropped off!

 

[SmartWiredDave]

I notice it's probably the easier aspect of home automation, when you're dealing with low level or ever battery operated doorbells like that. So welcome like @Alan said, to a much bigger world!

Also if it doesn't make your life easier, which I think you'll know, just skip it! We don't have time for gadgets that don't work!

 

[barfle]

I know my neighbor has a ring doorbell, and he was getting alerts everytime anyone walked on the sidewalk in front of his house. Some of those things can be annoying, and it's probably one reason my doorbell is still just a pushbutton.

I've recently had my HVAC upgraded, and the thermostat (iComfort) is programmable and controllable through my phone. I can also run my lawn sprinklers (B-hyve) and my washer/dryer tell me what they're up to, even when I'm not on my wi-fi network (LG ThinQ, which seems to be expandable to other devices).

 

[Sarah]

I could see that a ring doorbell could become annoying. I like the idea of the temperature control. I've seen some refrigerators that have smart capabilities also.

 

[Alan]

I know my neighbor has a ring doorbell, and he was getting alerts everytime anyone walked on the sidewalk in front of his house. Some of those things can be annoying, and it's probably one reason my doorbell is still just a pushbutton.

I've recently had my HVAC upgraded, and the thermostat (iComfort) is programmable and controllable through my phone. I can also run my lawn sprinklers (B-hyve) and my washer/dryer tell me what they're up to, even when I'm not on my wi-fi network (LG ThinQ, which seems to be expandable to other devices).

I know I've disabled a lot of the distractions from my reo doorbell. I just need to know if a package was dropped off - and let it record. If you setup areas, IE door steps, yeah let me know someone is there...otherwise no need.