Amazon Ring Always Home Cam

Ring Always Home Cam is an autonomous drone developed by Amazon that is equipped with a security camera that can fly around customers' homes on pre-programmed routes streaming video.

Initially announced in September 2020, Ring Always Home Cam provides 1440x1440 HD video, is controlled by the Ring app and flies along custom flight paths so you can see what’s happening around your home no matter where you are. 

Amazon says the camera never records when the device is docked and only records during trained flight paths.

Operator: Amazon
Developer: Amazon
Country: USA
Sector: Consumer goods
Purpose: Strengthen home security
Technology: Drone; Computer vision
Issue: Privacy; Security; Surveillance; Dual/multi-use
Transparency: Governance; Privacy

Risks and harms 🛑

The Amazon Ring Always Home Cam has raised concerns about potential privacy erosion and poor security.

Incidents and issues 

Despite Amazon's claim that the Always Home Cam has been designed as a privacy-first product, commentators and digital rights advocates expressed concerns that the drone would inevitably erode privacy, especially when updates and upgrades are made, and jeopardise security.

Page info
Type: System
Published: September 2021
Last updated: May 2024