Dutch firm Signify, formerly Philips Lighting, is pairing lighting and security so its WiZ smart lighting system can also monitor homes.

The WiZ indoor camera combines with software updates on the WiZ app, WiZ lights and SpaceSense motion detection technology to give users peace of mind when away from home.

WiZ integrates home monitoring features in its smart lighting system, taking advantage of the fact that lights are found throughout the home and can be an effective tool to discourage potential intruders.

With a seamless user experience in mind, customisable monitoring routines have been added to the WiZ app, allowing users to control their lighting and monitor their home with a single tap. They simply click on their desired routine to let the WiZ system know they are going away and activate a set of lighting behaviours to help secure their home.

The app can notify users of unexpected activity in their home, allowing them to take immediate action.

With SpaceSense motion detection technology, every compatible WiZ light is a motion sensor that detects movement in the coverage area. When combined with the WiZ indoor camera, the system provides full coverage for the entire home. Consumers can activate WiZ monitoring for the entire home or for certain areas only and can quickly turn it off when necessary.

WiZ lights can also be automated with presence simulation: they will turn on and off automatically to simulate the presence of somebody at home. Users can decide how the lights will react when motion is detected: turn on to full brightness, flash or display vibrant colours, for example.

“We all know that lights play an incredibly important role in making us feel safe in our own homes,” said Danny Lousberg, head of software product management at WiZ. “Building on our expertise in lighting, WiZ has put together the first fully integrated smart home monitoring that combines the features of smart lights that detect presence with SpaceSense and cameras in a seamless and straightforward way.”

An important element of the home monitoring is the WiZ indoor camera. It will allow consumers to control and see what’s always happening at home and will notify them of any suspicious movement or sound. As soon as users receive a notification, they can open the WiZ app to get a live view of what’s going on.

The indoor camera is equipped with night vision, which is automatically enabled when the light level is low enough, using infra-red to light up the space and ensure clear visibility. The image-based motion detection can also pick up on any sudden loud noises, such as the breaking of windows or fire and smoke alarms, and send notifications.

Additional features include two-way audio feature, wide 120 degree viewing angle, full HD and an SD card slot. 

Those new to the WiZ ecosystem can begin with the home monitoring starter kit, composed of the indoor camera and WiZ lights. An optional subscription service unlocks additional features, such as storing media from the WiZ indoor camera in the cloud for up to 30 days, defining motion activity zones and/or privacy zones in selected areas, or starting a manual recording while the WiZ camera is streaming.