Abode for Android

Good set of tools that’s a big step up from what’s built into HomeKit and some other smart home apps. Very pleased so far with responsiveness and ease of use

Overall great wish list: Adjust door bell camera distance or create zones. Add IP cameras.

I joined the smart home security device bandwagon early on. Maybe too early. Years ago, Abode was the only company offering an external siren and monitored service, which are vital features if you’re looking for a complete home security alert system. So I jumped in head first. Years later, I’m still dealing with random alarms going off for no apparent reason, unstable app and firmware updates, and slow customer service. Between door and window sensors, camera, and sirens, I’m in too deep now to replace the entire system. That said, as soon as a single device goes out, I’m switching to a full service like Comcast Home. Yes, they are more expensive, but given how much time I spend troubleshooting, you have to ask yourself, what’s your time worth?

You can no longer scan QR codes to activate cameras because the camera on your phone is never activated to do the scan. Worst company I’ve ever dealt with.

I set up Abode a few years ago. It was glitchy but good enough. Recently they have removed a number of features, and now charge a monthly fee for them. The benefit of Abode was that it could be configurable and largely DIY, but now that option is gone and retroactively applied to customers who bought something else. Sketchy, bait and switch, scam.