Amazon Adds Security Features to Echo Device

Amazon Adds Security Features to Echo Device

Alexa speakers are always listening; Alexa Guard will allow them to listen for the sound of broken glass or the sounds of smoke or carbon monoxide alarms. If heard, the system will then alert the user.

  • By Jessica Davis
  • Sep 24, 2018

Amazon is adding a new set of features to its Echo devices that will allow it to function as one of the basic pieces of a smart security system, the company announced Thursday. The feature set will be called Alexa Guard.

Alexa speakers are always listening; Alexa Guard will allow them to listen for the sound of broken glass or the sounds of smoke or carbon monoxide alarms. If heard, the system will then alert the user.

If the user has smart lights in their home, Alexa Guard can also randomize the lighting to make it look like people are in the house even if the user is out. According to Amazon, the system will use machine learning to control the lighting to make it “seem natural.”

Alexa Guard won’t be enabled constantly—instead, users will have to active the skill set by letting Alexa know when they are leaving their home. Once enabled, Alexa will be able to send notifications to users’ phones or directly to any supported professional monitoring system.

According to Amazon, enabling Alexa Guard mode will also automatically tell any security system integrated with the device that you’re leaving the house. The company said that at launch, the service will be able to integrate with ADT for professional monitoring and Ring for security products.

About the Author

Jessica Davis is the Associate Content Editor for 1105 Media.

Featured

  • Security Industry Association Announces the 2026 Security Megatrends

    The Security Industry Association (SIA) has identified and forecasted the 2026 Security Megatrends, which form the basis of SIA’s signature annual Security Megatrends report defining the top 10 factors influencing both near- and long-term change in the global security industry. Read Now

  • The Future of Access Control: Cloud-Based Solutions for Safer Workplaces

    Access controls have revolutionized the way we protect our people, assets and operations. Gone are the days of cumbersome keychains and the security liabilities they introduced, but it’s a mistake to think that their evolution has reached its peak. Read Now

  • A Look at AI

    Large language models (LLMs) have taken the world by storm. Within months of OpenAI launching its AI chatbot, ChatGPT, it amassed more than 100 million users, making it the fastest-growing consumer application in history. Read Now

  • First, Do No Harm: Responsibly Applying Artificial Intelligence

    It was 2022 when early LLMs (Large Language Models) brought the term “AI” into mainstream public consciousness and since then, we’ve seen security corporations and integrators attempt to develop their solutions and sales pitches around the biggest tech boom of the 21st century. However, not all “artificial intelligence” is equally suitable for security applications, and it’s essential for end users to remain vigilant in understanding how their solutions are utilizing AI. Read Now

  • Improve Incident Response With Intelligent Cloud Video Surveillance

    Video surveillance is a vital part of business security, helping institutions protect against everyday threats for increased employee, customer, and student safety. However, many outdated surveillance solutions lack the ability to offer immediate insights into critical incidents. This slows down investigations and limits how effectively teams can respond to situations, creating greater risks for the organization. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden CV-7600 High Security Card Readers

    Camden Door Controls has relaunched its CV-7600 card readers in response to growing market demand for a more secure alternative to standard proximity credentials that can be easily cloned. CV-7600 readers support MIFARE DESFire EV1 & EV2 encryption technology credentials, making them virtually clone-proof and highly secure.

  • Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden CM-221 Series Switches

    Camden Door Controls is pleased to announce that, in response to soaring customer demand, it has expanded its range of ValueWave™ no-touch switches to include a narrow (slimline) version with manual override. This override button is designed to provide additional assurance that the request to exit switch will open a door, even if the no-touch sensor fails to operate. This new slimline switch also features a heavy gauge stainless steel faceplate, a red/green illuminated light ring, and is IP65 rated, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use as part of an automatic door or access control system. ValueWave™ no-touch switches are designed for easy installation and trouble-free service in high traffic applications. In addition to this narrow version, the CM-221 & CM-222 Series switches are available in a range of other models with single and double gang heavy-gauge stainless steel faceplates and include illuminated light rings.