Does Echo Show Have A Camera?

Echo Show is a popular device that comes with a built-in camera, microphone, and touch display pad. The camera is installed in the device for video calls, but you can also use it as a security camera for your home.

In this article, we will discuss the camera in the Echo Show. We will share the steps to use it as a security camera and check its live previews.

Part 1: Does Amazon Echo Have A Camera?

No, not all Amazon Echo devices have a built-in camera. Most of them, such as Echo, Echo Flex, and Echo Dot, do not have it.

However, the “Echo Show Series” comes with built-in cameras. It is primarily installed for the purpose of video calls. It enables users to stay connected with each other through platforms and services like Skype and Alexa-to-Alexa.

The pre-installed camera can also be used as a security camera. Moreover, Alexa’s “Drop-in” feature can also be used to keep an eye on the home’s activities from outside. Using this safety attribute, anyone can monitor house activities from any location and promptly take action.

For privacy, devices also offer a built-in shutter to provide an extra layer of privacy when the camera is not being used.

Part 2: How to Use Echo Show As Security Camera?

Echo Show’s camera can be used in the same way as a normal security camera usually installed in every house.

For this purpose, you will be required to enable the monitoring mode on your device. To enable this mode, simply follow the steps below.

1. Swipe the Echo Show’s home display from top to bottom. It will bring different options on the screen. Tap the Settings icon from the top right corner.
2. Now, select Camera and tap the toggle in front of the Home Monitoring option to turn it ON.
3. Now, tap Continue > Continue from the pop-ups and enter your Amazon account’s password to log in.
4. In case 2FA is enabled on your Amazon account, enter the code and tap the Continue>Done options to enable your Echo Show’s camera for security purposes.

Part 3: How to Add an Audio Alert or Video Delay for Privacy?

Adding or turning on Audio Alert and Video Delay options are very easy, but let us understand the benefits and importance of using them.

These are two built-in features of the Echo Show that protect the privacy of the person in front of the device. Suppose you are at home and your friend has integrated your security camera on his/her device. Whenever they want to check the live feed, these features will allow you to choose whether you want to allow him/her or not.

The Audio Alert feature enables a notification with sound for you to stay aware of the live feed access. In contrast, the Video Delay feature freezes a few initial seconds of the video, giving you a chance to turn OFF the camera or prepare yourself. Besides this, Video Delay also provides a buffer period for having a smooth, interruption-free, and streamlined video experience during the interaction.

You can follow the below-mentioned steps to Turn ON these amazing features on Echo Show devices.

1. Swipe down the display screen of the Echo Show and tap on the Settings icon. Open Camera.
2. The video Delay option will appear on the next screen at the second number. Tap the toggle to turn it ON.
3. Similarly, scroll down the screen to turn ON the Audio Alert feature from the Camera menu.

Part 4: How to View Camera Footage on Echo Show?

Alexa can be used to preview the live footage of your Echo Show security camera on the mobile display. It offers a feature for the integration of any security system directly on mobile phones. Using this feature, anyone can easily have access to live video recordings of his/her home.

Here is a short guide on how to view camera footage on the Echo Show.

1. Open the Alexa app on your tablet or mobile phone. Tap the Devices option from the bottom of the screen.
2. Select the Camera option from the features provided at the top of the screen. It will show you a list of devices that you want to integrate. Select Echo Show from the list.
3. Now, you can watch the live feed captured from your Echo Show’s security camera. You can also turn ON/OFF the speaker or mic according to your preference.

Bonus: Use Professional Security Camera to Monitor Your Home

You can use Alexa Echo Show as a security camera. However, it does not offer optimal security as it is not designed for that purpose. Instead, you can use a professional security camera like Argus PT.

Argus PT is a wireless security camera that can be used indoors and outdoors. It works on dual-band Wi-Fi to ensure stable and fast connectivity. It offers 2K+ video resolution for optimal clarity and great details. It also has color night vision to capture true colors at night.

It is also compatible with Alexa. So you can control it hands-free. It works with your voice commands and makes surveillance more convenient.

FAQs

1. Can you see camera history on an Echo Show?

No, you cannot see the camera history on the Echo Show. It is not meant to be a security camera, which is why it does not offer previous recordings. For recordings and optimal security, you can go with Argus PT.

2. Does Echo Show record you?

No, Echo Show does not record your videos due to privacy reasons. There are no recordings stored in the device. You can only see the live preview.

3. Can I use Echo Look as a security camera?

Echo Looks has a built-in camera, so you can use it as a security camera like the Echo Show. However, it is not a professional security camera, so it does not record videos.

Conclusion

Alexa Echo Show contains a built-in camera that can also be used as a security camera. We have shared the step-by-step process of how you enable security mode in your Echo Show. However, it is not the ideal option for security purposes. You can use Argus PT for optimal security and better features.