Introduction to eufy Cloud Storage

What is eufy Cloud Storage?

eufy Cloud Storage is a cloud storage service offered by Anker Innovations through their eufy security brand. It allows users to store footage from eufy security cameras and video doorbells in the cloud rather than relying solely on local storage.

The service works with eufy’s lineup of home security cameras, video doorbells, alarm systems and smart locks. Once a eufy device is connected to the eufySecurity mobile app, users can enable cloud storage and choose between different storage plans.

Benefits of eufy Cloud Storage

There are several benefits to using eufy’s cloud storage service:

– Access footage remotely – With cloud storage, users can access stored video clips and live streams remotely via the eufySecurity app on their smartphone or tablet, rather than needing to be on the same wifi network as the camera.

– More storage capacity – Local storage on eufy cameras is limited to microSD cards. Cloud storage provides much larger storage capabilities starting at 10GB.

– Video backup – Having footage stored in the cloud acts as a backup, so if a camera is damaged or footage is accidentally deleted, the videos are preserved in the cloud.

– Share footage easily – Users can share footage from the eufySecurity app to social media, friends and family easily when stored in the cloud.

eufy Cloud Storage Plans

eufy offers both free and paid plans for cloud storage.

The Free Basic Plan provides 10GB of cloud storage per home/account for one month. Footage older than one month is deleted automatically. This plan is best for basic users who only need short term storage.

Paid plans unlock additional features and longer storage:

– Standard Plan – $2.99 per month per camera for 30 days of video history
– Premier Plan – $9.99 per month per camera for 365 days of video history

Up to 10 cameras can be connected per home/account. So on the Premier plan, storage for 10 cameras would be $99.99 per month.

eufy Cloud Storage Considerations

While eufy’s cloud storage brings several benefits, there are some things to keep in mind:

– Requires steady internet connection – To leverage cloud storage, eufy devices need to remain connected to wifi in order to sync footage to the cloud consistently. Lack of consistent internet could lead to footage gaps.

– Potential lack of end-to-end encryption – Some users may prefer local storage because they are unsure if eufy uses true end-to-end encryption for videos stored in the cloud.

– Recurring fees – There are ongoing monthly or annual fees to maintain access to video storage in the cloud. Local storage via microSD cards has a one-time upfront cost.

– Footage could be requested by authorities – As with any cloud service, users should be aware that stored video data could be requested by law enforcement given appropriate warrants.

Conclusion

eufy’s cloud storage service provides expanded storage capacity and flexibility for users to store and access footage from eufy home security devices. The service is easy to set up and integrates directly with the eufySecurity app. While ongoing fees and internet connection requirements should be considered, cloud storage can be a useful addition for those wanting remote access, backup and more storage for security footage.

Integrating eufy Cloud Storage with Other Services

While eufy cloud storage works seamlessly with eufy’s own security devices, it can also integrate with some third-party services for additional functionality:

Amazon Alexa

eufy devices like the SoloCam can be connected to Amazon Alexa using the eufy Security skill. This allows users to access their eufy cameras via voice commands. Requests like “Alexa, show me the front door camera” will pull up a live stream on Alexa-enabled displays like the Echo Show. Alexa can also be used to control eufy cameras via voice, like panning and tilting PTZ cameras.

Google Assistant

Similar to Alexa, eufy products work with Google Assistant for voice control and visual display of security cameras. The eufy Security integration allows commands like “Hey Google, show the back yard camera” to display a live feed on Google Nest Hub and other Assistant-enabled smart displays.

IFTTT

Using IFTTT, eufy cameras can connect with other IFTTT-supported devices and services. For example, an IFTTT applet could be created to flash a Phillips Hue bulb whenever motion is detected by a eufy camera. Other popular IFTTT integrations include notifications to smartphones, automations with smart locks, and security alerts via SMS or email.

New eufy Products and Features

eufy continues to expand its home security ecosystem with new products and features:

Upcoming Battery-Powered Video Doorbell

A new addition to eufy’s video doorbell lineup is the upcoming solo wired doorbell. This will provide continuous power via a wired connection but also have an integrated rechargeable battery for backup power.

Indoor Cam 2K Pan & Tilt

eufy recently released the Indoor Cam 2K Pan & Tilt camera. As the name suggests, it allows 360-degree panning and tilting to survey a full room with just one camera. The camera features 2K video quality and built-in motion tracking.

Local Storage Improvements

While eufy is encouraging adoption of its cloud storage service, local storage remains an option. Enhancements to microSD card support now allow local storage of video footage up to 180 days on some eufy cameras.

Package Detection

Select eufy video doorbells and security cameras now offer package detection. This uses AI to recognize package deliveries and send alerts to the eufySecurity app. It helps users know exactly when mail or packages arrive at their home.

Comparing eufy to Other Cloud Storage Options

How does eufy’s cloud storage stack up to offerings from other security brands?

Arlo Secure

Arlo cameras can sync with the Arlo Secure cloud plan starting at $2.99 per month per camera. Arlo offers advanced detection features like vehicle and animal detection in its cloud analytics. Storage varies from 30 days to 1 year.

Ring Protect

Ring cloud plans are priced per household rather than per camera. Their Protect Basic plan is $3 per month for 60 days of video storage. The Protect Plus plan is $10 per month for 60 days and professional monitoring.

Nest Aware

Nest Aware starts at $6 per month for 30 days of video history and integrates with Google Assistant. For $12 per month, video can be stored for 60 days. Nest’s plans are per home rather than per camera.

Final Thoughts

Overall, eufy’s cloud storage pricing is competitive and its integration with eufy devices is straightforward. For those invested in the eufy security ecosystem, cloud storage can provide valuable offsite backups and remote viewing capabilities.