How to Use Your Amazon Echo Show as a Home Security Camera

Amazon Echo Show devices come with built-in cameras primarily used for video calls. However, you can repurpose the camera as a home security tool, allowing you to monitor your home remotely. This feature is called "Home Monitoring", which is available on newer Echo Show models (Echo Show 5, 8, 10, and Echo Show 15). Here’s how to set it up and use it effectively.

 Step 1: Set Up Home Monitoring

To turn your Echo Show into a security camera, you’ll first need to enable the Home Monitoring feature:

1. Swipe down from the top of your Echo Show screen to access the control panel.

2. Select Settings (gear icon).

3. Scroll down and tap on Camera.

4. Toggle the switch next to Home Monitoring to ON.

You'll be prompted to verify your account and agree to Amazon's terms if you're setting this up for the first time.

 Step 2: Enable Remote Monitoring from the Alexa App

Once Home Monitoring is enabled, you can remotely view the camera feed from your Echo Show using the Alexa app on your smartphone.

1. Open the Alexa app on your phone.

2. Tap on the Devices tab at the bottom of the screen.

3. Select Cameras.

4. Find and select your Echo Show from the list.

You should now be able to view the live feed from the Echo Show’s camera remotely on your smartphone.

 Step 3: Use Alexa Routines for Added Security

You can further enhance your home security setup by creating Alexa Routines that integrate your Echo Show with other smart home devices.

1. In the Alexa app, go to More > Routines.

2. Tap the + icon to create a new routine.

3. Set triggers such as motion detection or time of day.

4. Choose an action, such as displaying a live camera feed or sending a notification to your phone when motion is detected.

 Step 4: Two-Way Communication and Drop-In

In addition to remote viewing, Echo Show allows two-way communication, which is perfect for checking in on people or pets at home.

- Use the Drop-In feature to speak to someone through the Echo Show. This can be accessed through the Alexa app by selecting Communicate, then Drop-In, and choosing your Echo Show.

 Step 5: Turn Off the Camera for Privacy

If you’re not actively using the Echo Show as a security camera and want to prioritize privacy, you can disable the camera.

- To turn off the camera, swipe down from the top of the screen, tap Settings, go to Camera, and toggle off the Home Monitoring option.

You can also use the physical camera shutter (available on some Echo Show models) to cover the lens when it's not in use.

 Step 6: Use Echo Show with Other Security Systems

For added functionality, consider integrating your Echo Show with other security systems like Ring or Blink. This way, you can view footage from these devices on your Echo Show’s screen.

1. Link your security system with the Alexa app by going to Devices, selecting Add Device, and following the prompts.

2. Once linked, you can ask Alexa to show live feeds from these cameras on your Echo Show by saying, “Alexa, show the front door camera.”

 Tips for Best Results

- Place your Echo Show strategically: Ensure the camera has a clear view of the area you want to monitor.

- Use notifications: Set up motion detection alerts to be notified when movement is detected.

- Secure your Amazon account: Make sure to use two-factor authentication for added security.

By following these steps, your Amazon Echo Show can double as a convenient security camera, offering peace of mind when you're away from home.