I am looking to replace an existing home security system with one that I can monitor and control remotely via an iPhone app.
The ControlPlus app used with the system that our regular installer recommended raised some red flags. It has not been updated in over two years, and based on its low App Store rating and negative user reviews, it seems to have serious issues with functionality and performance. Additionally, it lacks support for recent and desirable iOS features like Critical Alerts, which means we would not receive notifications when our phones are in Do Not Disturb mode. For an app that monitors home security, I consider that a major fail. From the testing of the app that I could do without hardware, the accessibility also isn't great.
I can't do any meaningful testing of the apps by Yale and Texecom without having the hardware, although the latter has two checkboxes to fill on the first screen which were invisible to VoiceOver, so I have no expectations of that one being accessible. In both cases, the App Store ratings and reviews raised identical concerns to those for ControlPlus.
Before purchasing and installing a new security system, I wanted to check if anyone in the AppleVis community can recommend options that have an accessible companion app that has a good range of features and is reliable.
If you have experience with a home security system that you would recommend, please share the brand and app name. I'm open to options from any reputable provider.
Many thanks in advance for any advice you can offer!
Comments
Ring doorbell?
I've heard mixed reviews when it comes to accessibility so there's that but once it's set up it will tell you if someone is at your front door. My grandparents like it and honestly if I move out I'll probably get it myself.
Re: Ring doorbell?
Thank you for the recommendation. However, we are looking for a full home security system, not just a doorbell. At minimum, we need the system to include door sensors, motion detectors, security lighting, an external alarm bell, and any other hardware components required for comprehensive monitoring and alerts.
No problem.
I hope you find what you need but unfortunetly the UK isn't the best when it comes to accessibility, at least in my oppinion.
Ring Accessibility
Whilst ring doesn’t serve your needs I have to say the app is pretty accessible. However, I was told that at some stage it was not but I think you can independently monitor the live feed on the camera whether you have it set of front door or back door and the only thing I wish I could change is when you set the live feed to turn on in the app it goes to your headset by default which I wish they could change that so it goes to your main phone speaker because VoiceOver/audio gets rooted to that automatically but you can change it whilst the live feed is still running. As well as That I do find the app pretty accessible to use and to be fair I didn’t set it up initially I did have some assistance but once it is set up you can check the battery status of the doorbell and go through your other various settings and if you have a chime, you can change the ringtone for that and for the app as well. Hopefully like others have said, you’ll find the right product that suits you. All the best of luck and keep us posted if you find anything else accessible for appropriate security system.