We really liked the Abode home security system when we reviewed it last year. For 2018, Abode is upping the ante with a fancy new voice-controlled security system that works with all three major smart home digital voice assistants.
Announced at the Consumer Electronics Show on Monday, Abode Iota supports voice control with Alexa, Google Assistant, or Siri (via Apple HomeKit). There’s also a 1080p camera for high resolution video of the goings-on in your, well, abode. Live video is available any time via Abode’s web app, the Apple Home app, or Abode’s Android and iOS apps. Alarm events automatically upload clips to your Abode timeline no matter what your plan is. Abode also allows for video clip triggers when various events happen, such as if the front door is unlocked.
AbodeLike previous Abode systems, Iota offers support for select third-party smart home products including Nest, ecobee, Philips Hue, and LIFX. The system also comes with Z-Wave and Zigbee control built-in to allow it to connect with other mission critical smart home devices such as smoke detectors, water leak detectors and valve controllers, lighting, and door locks.
Abode also offers a monitoring service that will support Iota users, with a variety of service plans. You’ll find short-term monitoring plans that come in three or seven day increments if you want some extra attention on the house while you’re away, as well as monthly and annual options. Abode hasn’t announced pricing yet for Iota, but the company typically offers packages that include a year of free monitoring.