Ring on Monday launched the Video Doorbell 2, a Mac-, iPhone-, and iPad-compatible smarthome accessory that makes several key upgrades over its predecessor.
The records in 1080p instead of 720p, and offers better infrared night vision, according to Ring. Also new is a removable, rechargeable battery pack for owners who can't use wired power -- the original Doorbell required people wanting to recharge to take the entire device inside every 6 to 12 months.
The Doorbell 2 has a 160-degree field of view, with a 180-degree horizontal motion detection angle. It also sports two-way audio, and swappable faceplates for matching different home exteriors.
For video streaming, the device relies on 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi and companion apps for , , Android, and Windows 10. It doesn't yet support Apple's HomeKit, although Ring says other products -- the Pro and the Floodlight Cam -- should gain support by the end of the year.
That's likely possible because of , specifically support for software-based authentication. The new policy will allow some existing devices to gain HomeKit through firmware updates.
Ring is selling the for $199. The product offers live streaming and security alerts by default, but cloud video storage costs $30 per year for an individual camera, or $100 per year for unlimited cameras.