Smartphone-based intercom enables homeowners to see who’s at the door remotely

LaunchKey has already helped web users to boost their online security with logins verified on their smartphone, but what about security in the real world? DoorBot is a system that aims to replace the doorbell with a camera that broadcasts direct to homeowners’ smartphones. Created by tech developers Edison Junior, the device is a slim battery-operated doorbell that can be installed in the same way as a regular buzzer. Through a wifi connection, it is connected to the resident’s smartphone. When a visitor pushes the button, a video call is initiated through the DoorBot app, which the homeowner can either choose to reject or accept. After seeing that it’s someone they know – or after speaking to the visitor over the replacement telecom – they can then open the door. The system does work over a GSM connection, meaning that users can even answer calls when they’re not at home. Edison Junior has also partnered with Lockitron – the smartphone-enabled door lock – and has designed the DoorBot app with built-in compatibility, meaning that those with both can even let visitors in remotely.