SimpliSafe has launched the Video Doorbell Series 2, extending its AI-powered "Active Guard" proactive monitoring feature to the front door for the first time. The doorbell combines on-device AI, cloud-based computer vision and facial recognition to detect suspicious activity, allowing a human monitoring agent to view the live feed, speak through the doorbell and attempt to deter intruders or package thieves. This matters because it pushes DIY home security further towards real-time human intervention rather than passive recording, potentially reducing false alarms and giving emergency services more accurate information.

The doorbell costs $199.99 and is wired, offering 2K resolution, 10x zoom, a 150-degree view, two-way audio, a built-in siren and up to five seconds of pre-roll footage. It requires a SimpliSafe base station and keypad, plus a monitored Pro or Plus plan starting at $49.99 a month to use Active Guard, which only activates when the system is armed and triggered. Colour-coded LED lights show whether the homeowner (blue) or an agent (amber) is speaking, footage is encrypted, and users can add familiar faces to avoid false alerts; rival Ring offers a similar "Virtual Guard" service for $99 a month.