logo
Wyze's latest smart bulb is also a camera

Wyze's latest smart bulb is also a camera

The Verge03-06-2025
Wyze's new security camera is attached to a lightbulb. The smart home company has devised a genius, if janky-looking, solution to illuminating your porch or patio with light while also keeping an eye on potential prowlers. The Wyze Bulb Cam ($49.98) is a motion-activated smart light and security camera that doesn't require any power cables or batteries and is powered by a light fixture.
According to Wyze, the specially designed camera can be installed directly into a compatible E26 light fixture, eliminating the need to find power outlets nearby or mess with solar panels or recharging batteries to keep your security system up and running.
The company is also selling compatible Wyze Accessory Bulbs ($16.98). These dimmable, 800-lumen, 3000-kelvin lightbulbs are IP20 rated and can pair with the Bulb Cam via Bluetooth to create a motion-activated smart lighting system. Both products are available now at Wyze's online store.
The Wyze Bulb Cam has the same lighting specs, and its camera is motion-activated. It features a 160-degree field of view, 2K resolution with wide dynamic range, and color night vision. It also has two-way audio, works over 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi, and offers local storage via an onboard microSD card (sold separately, up to 256GB). The device works with Wyze's app, and the company offers cloud recording starting at $3 a month, which adds smart alerts for things like people, packages, and pets.
Wyze says the camera is also compatible with Wyze's new AI-powered features, including descriptive alerts that summarize motion events and its 'NBD' Filter that aims to cut down on notifications — but you'll need to pay for Wyze's $20 a month Cam Unlimited Pro subscription. The camera and lights are compatible with Amazon Alexa, Google Home, and IFTTT.
This isn't Wyze's first attempt at leveraging existing outdoor lighting fixtures to power cameras. The company sells a lamp socket solution for $17 that can power a Wyze Cam v3 or v4 and turns any connected bulb into a smart bulb. The Bulb Cam is slightly more elegant as it does away with the wires.
While there are several no-name bulb / camera combos available on Amazon, very few established security camera companies offer this solution. Lorex recently released a 2K Wi-Fi Smart Lightbulb Camera, with the camera embedded in the bulb, which looks a little less odd, but also makes for a huge lightbulb. The Lorex can automatically rotate 360 degrees, whereas the Wyze cam can only be manually adjusted. Lorex's bulb camera does cost more, at $70, and doesn't have the option of local recording.
The downside of connecting a security camera to an existing light fixture is that light is probably controlled by a switch, so you'll face the same problem smart bulbs inside the house have: when someone turns off the switch, the power to the camera will be cut, as well.
However, Wyze's smart bulbs can be activated by motion via the camera or set on timers and to a schedule, so you shouldn't need to operate them with the switch. Another issue you might run into is that a lot of exterior lighting today uses embedded LEDs and not a screw-in socket, so check yours before considering a product like this.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

Best Deal Week Spotlight: TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G Delivers Smarter Tech at a Smarter Price
Best Deal Week Spotlight: TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G Delivers Smarter Tech at a Smarter Price

Associated Press

time2 hours ago

  • Associated Press

Best Deal Week Spotlight: TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G Delivers Smarter Tech at a Smarter Price

TCL®, one of the world's best-selling and leading technology companies, is bringing summer deal excitement to tech lovers with a major offer on its TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G smartphone. With TCL's groundbreaking NXTPAPER screen technology which is easy on the eyes, this device offers a robust suite of AI features, powerful performance, and all-day battery life —all at a price that makes innovation accessible. From July 21 to 27, customers can enjoy 30% off both the 128GB and 256GB versions, available exclusively on Amazon. TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G:A Smarter Choice Clarity, color, and comfort are redefined with the TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G unique display screen. Ideal for avid readers, professionals, and digital enthusiasts, the screen mimics the look and feel of real paper while reducing blue light emissions by up to 61%. The display is certified for low blue light (Eyesafe®), reflection-free viewing (TÜV Rheinland), and a more familiar, paper-like feel (SGS), allowing power users to stay online longer, with less discomfort than a conventional LCD screen. Adaptable Display Modes for Every Scenario With a dedicated mode-switching button, users can toggle between four visual modes—Standard, Ink Paper, Color Paper, and Max Ink—customized for reading, sketching, and immersive viewing. From vibrant colors to eye-soothing greyscale, the display adapts to every use case. Immersive Entertainment On-the-Go Entertainment enthusiasts will appreciate the 6.8-inch FHD+ 120Hz refresh rate display, delivering fluid visuals for gaming and streaming. DTS enhanced dual stereo speakers produce immersive 3D surround sound, combining deep bass with crystal-clear dialogue for a theater-like experience. AI Assistant That Goes Beyond the Expected Powered by TCL's AI engine, the device boosts productivity with intelligent tools, including real-time transcription, content summarization, and multilingual translation. Whether managing meetings, creating content, or organizing study notes, users can perform tasks more efficiently with on-device AI assistance. Battery Life That Keeps Up With You With a 5,010mAh battery and 18W fast charging, the TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G reaches a full charge in just 2.5 hours. The phone also features reverse charging, allowing users to power up accessories and other devices on the go. Robust Performance with Nationwide 5G Support Equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor and 8GB RAM (plus 8GB virtual expansion), the phone delivers seamless multitasking, gaming, and streaming. Storage options include 128GB and 256GB, offering ample space for apps, media, and files. The device supports nationwide 5G coverage through AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon, offering users flexibility in choosing high-speed connectivity across the U.S. Capture Every Detail with a Powerful Camera System The TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G features a triple rear camera setup, including a 50MP main lens, a 5MP ultra-wide sensor, and a 2MP depth camera, all enhanced by AI scene optimization and motion focus. A 32MP front-facing camera ensures crisp, vibrant selfies and video calls in any light. Limited-Time Best Deal Discounts From July 21 to July 27, 2025, the TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G will be available on Amazon US at an unbeatable Best Deal Week price. Enjoy 20% off automatically, plus an additional 10% off by entering promo code JCEGT93L at checkout. This offer applies to both the 128GB and 256GB versions. About TCL TCL Electronics specializes in the research, development, and manufacturing of consumer electronics, including TVs, mobile phones, audio devices, smart home products, and appliances. Combining thoughtful design and innovative technology to inspire greatness, TCL's lineup delivers must-have features and meaningful experiences. As one of the world's largest consumer electronics brands, its vertically integrated supply chain and state-of-the-art display panel factory help TCL deliver innovation for all. For additional product information, please visit for the full portfolio. Media Contact Company Name: TCL Contact Person: Rob Manfredo Email: Send Email Country: United States Website: Source: TCL

Save a whopping $900 on the Anker SOLIX F2000 Power Station
Save a whopping $900 on the Anker SOLIX F2000 Power Station

Android Authority

time2 hours ago

  • Android Authority

Save a whopping $900 on the Anker SOLIX F2000 Power Station

Sometimes, you don't need the biggest, beefiest portable power stations. If you're more of a high-end camper or RVer or simply want something that can take you through common power outages, something like the Anker SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station offers a nice balance. It's also at a very steep discount today, saving you a whopping $900! Buy the Anker SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station for just $1,099 ($900 off) This offer is available from Amazon as a 'limited time deal.' This means the deal should go away relatively soon. Additionally, it is an automatic discount, so all you have to do is add it to your cart and check out. Anker SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station Anker SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station See price at Amazon Save $900.00 Limited Time Deal! Portable Power Stations tend to fall in the extremes of the spectrum. They are either very powerful and huge, or very portable but underpowered. Devices like the Anker SOLIX F2000 aim to find a middle ground. This one comes with a 2,048Wh battery capacity, which is plenty of juice for many of us. Not sure what this means? Well, it can essentially charge a regular smartphone about 130 times! Of course, you're not getting this to charge your phone. It can do much more than that. It can also work as a temporary power source for your home or RV. This is because it has both regular outlets and even a TT-30 port. It can output as much as 2,400W, so you can use it to power a full fridge for about 10 hours, a TV for over 15 hours, a kettle for 2.6 hours, a microwave oven for 2.6 hours, a washing machine for 1.5 hours, and more. Aside from the TT-30 port, you get four standard AC outlets, two car sockets, three USB-C ports, and two USB-A ports. You'll get a display that can show you the live status of the battery and its ports. The unit also comes with sturdy wheels and a handle for easy towing. It even has built-in ambient lights for your nighttime adventures. Again, this is the lowest price we've seen this battery hit in 2025, so it's a great time to get the Anker SOLIX F2000 Portable Power Station. All things considered, it is an excellent option for $1,099. The closest competitor might be the DJI Power 2000, but that one has no wheels or handle.

Narwal Freo Z Ultra deal: Our favorite robot drops to lowest price since Prime Day
Narwal Freo Z Ultra deal: Our favorite robot drops to lowest price since Prime Day

Android Authority

time3 hours ago

  • Android Authority

Narwal Freo Z Ultra deal: Our favorite robot drops to lowest price since Prime Day

Jonathan Feist / Android Authority After testing a wide variety of robots, we've placed the Narwal Freo Z Ultra as our top pick in our list of the best robot vacuums. Its $1,499.99 retail price can be a bit much, though. Luckily, today we came across a really nice deal that brings the cost down to a more reasonable $929.99. Get the Narwal Freo Z Ultra for $929.99 ($570 off) This offer is available from Amazon. It is a 'limited time offer' that's available for both color versions: White and Gray. Narwal Freo Z Ultra Narwal Freo Z Ultra Powerful suction and nearly-total automation Continuing to innovate, the Narwal Freo Z Ultra adds a large vacuum bag to the self-cleaning base station, heated electrolyzed water, AI smarts, and quieter than ever operation. It sweep, it vacuums, it mops, and it does it all automatically for weeks on end. Now with a baseboard cleaning brush. See price at Amazon Save $570.00 Limited Time Deal! The lowest price we've seen on the Narwal Freo Z Ultra is $849.99, but this was a Prime Day deal. The sale was exclusive to Prime subscribers and was only available for a few days. Besides that limited offer, this $929.99 price is the second-best discounted price on this model. We know 929.99 is still a hefty price to pay for a robot cleaner, but this is an impressive vacuum and mop combo that competes only with the very best in the industry. We highly praised it during our Narwal Freo Z Ultra review. Let's tell you a bit about it. The Freo Z Ultra offers an impressive 12,000Pa suction power. It can pick up 99% of all particles on hard floors. We've seen the previous-generation Freo X Ultra pick up metal marbles with 8,200Pa, so the more powerful Z Ultra will have no issues picking up usual debris. Another feature that makes the Narwal Freo Z Ultra special is its zero-tangle roller brush. I have long hair and usually have to manually untangle it from the robot. Not with the Freo Z Ultra! Those of you with long hair or pets will love this. The dual mopping pads are a really neat addition. They do more than just drag a rag across the floor; they essentially scrub the floors. Jonathan Feist / Android Authority Aside from being more efficient at cleaning, the system will also ensure the floors are actually left clean after each cleaning session. The docking station will wash the mopping pads on its own, then measure how dirty they come back. If the water is dirty, it will send the robot back to continue cleaning repeatedly, until the mopping pads come back squeaky clean. When done, the base will also dry the mopping pads to avoid any funky smells. As a result, the Narwal Freo Z Ultra offers one of the best hands-off approaches in the market. The dust bag can store up to 120 days of debris, using compression. The fresh water and dirty water containers usually last about a week or two, depending on how often you mop your floors and how much surface area each session covers. The robot itself is also pretty efficient at navigating. It uses two cameras, three lasers, and AI implementations to identify all kinds of obstructions and dangers. It can even detect different types of messes and adjust its cleaning method to tackle them better. Again, this is the cheapest the Narwal Fro Z Ultra has been, aside from the Prime Day sale. You don't even need a Prime subscription to catch this deal! Go grab this offer while you can! Extra deal: The Narwal Freo Pro is nearly as good and only costs $499.99 Narwal Freo Pro Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo Narwal Freo Pro Robot Vacuum and Mop Combo LiDAR and more in a mid-range bot There are not many compromises in the Narwal Freo Pro to help bring the price down. Only a few controls in the base station, manual detergent addition, but still some of the best floor cleaning capabilities we've seen from a robot vacuum. See price at Amazon Save $200.00 Limited Time Deal! The Narwal Freo Z Ultra is impressive, but it may be a bit overkill for many users. If you're like me, you would probably prefer saving money on something that offers more bang for your buck. The Narwal Freo Pro is pretty much almost as good, and right now, it is much more affordable at just $499.99. The features are actually pretty similar. The base will also wash and dry the mopping pads, and the system still detects how dirty the mopping pads come back, so the robot will continue cleaning until the floors are actually clean. The lidar system works very well, and it is very similar to that of the previous-gen Narwal Freo X Ultra. It can navigate your home very efficiently. It also has that zero-tangle main brush many of us can no longer live without. Jonathan Feist / Android Authority There are a few differences to keep in mind, though. The side brushes are also tangle-free, which is an upgrade. There are some downsides, though, if you can really call them that. The suction power isn't as potent at 8,500, but that is still more than capable of cleaning your typical floors. The dock has no physical buttons, but I honestly never use those in my Narwal Freo X Ultra. Being able to control it with the app and digital assistants is much more convenient. The one difference you may find a bit annoying is that it does not have automatic detergent dispensing. Instead, you need to throw a dissolving tablet into the water bin every time you refill the fresh water. It's one more step to think about, but we wouldn't say this is a deal-breaker. Especially if it saves you hundreds of dollars. Honestly, this is likely the better choice for most people. If I were to buy a Narwal robot right now, it would be this one.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store