I recently took a fresh look at the HomeKit Eve indoor camera and it inspired me to get my trusty Logitech Take a look around the camera and look at how it continues to hold its own against the competition. Circle View offers a simple motion-sensing home security camera solution to avoid constant video recording. It has a rugged, weather-resistant design with an IP64 rating.
HomeKit Weekly is a series dedicated to smart devices. home accessories, automation tips and tricks, and everything related to the Apple smart home system.
Benefits of Logitech Circle View
Logitech Circle View is a dedicated 1080p wired camera that integrates seamlessly with HomeKit. By “working exclusively with HomeKit” this means its operations are limited to the Home app, leaving no alternative methods of interaction. Firmware updates are managed automatically in the background. Setting up your camera is as easy as scanning a QR code using the Home app. This product is ideal for HomeKit enthusiasts who need a reliable wired camera.
Logitech Circle View is one of the prime examples of a reliable smart home camera built on HomeKit Secure Video. This device features premium Logitech TrueView video, a wide 180° viewing angle, and crisp 1080p HD resolution, ensuring every detail is captured with precision.
Logitech Circle View provides powerful infrared night vision and a range of up to 15 feet. For privacy, tilt the camera down or press the rear on/off switch, making Circle View our most secure camera yet. Designed specifically for your home, Circle View boasts sophisticated details such as a metal base, matte finish and discreet power cord that will easily complement any decor. Its superior high dynamic range sensor delivers detailed images in high-contrast videos, maintaining clear images in bright sunlight or shadows.
HomeKit Secure Video integrates Logitech Circle With with HomeKit, allowing you to record and view footage remotely without impacting your iCloud storage quota thanks to end-to-end encryption. This feature is available on your iPhone, iPad, Mac or Apple TV.
HomeKit Secure Videos analyzes video through your home hub (Apple TV or HomePod), using the device's intelligence to detect the presence of people, pets or vehicles . In the Home app, you can view the last ten days of recorded activity.
The number of HomeKit secure video cameras you can include in your home setup depends on your iCloud+ subscription level:
- With the 50GB iCloud+ plan, you use one camera.
- The 200GB plan gives you up to five cameras.
- The 2TB plan and above gives you an unlimited number of additional HomeKit Secure Video cameras.
The Bad
The main problem with this camera is the need for a power source, which may require installing a new outlet or running wires around the house. , depending on the layout of your home.
The kit includes a ten-foot cable housed in a rugged, weatherproof housing with an IP64 rating. It is important to emphasize that the plug is not weatherproof, so direct connection to an outdoor outlet is not recommended. I would advise SOCKiTBOX to waterproof the connection between the Circle View plug and the outdoor extension cord to accommodate an outlet that is 100% exposed to the elements.
My other major complaint is that it's not the camera, it's the that I would like to see 24/7 recording in HomeKit Secure Video for wired cameras. In 2024, it's time for Apple to offer it.
Verdict
If you want an outdoor camera that works with HomeKit Secure Video, Logitech Circle View – my main recommendation. To access HomeKit Secure Video, you'll need an iCloud+ subscription. It originally came out in 2020, but even in 2024 it's still a great camera. Wouldn't it be great to have a 4K model that's battery powered and/or powered over Ethernet? Yes, but it's still a fantastic HomeKit camera for outdoor use.
You can buy it on Amazon or directly from Logitech.
