Wyze cameras now use AI for descriptive text alerts

Security cameras are benefiting from AI in some unexpected ways. Usually, homeowners have to flip through thumbnails and video captures to track events. Now, the popular Wyze cameras can send text notifications describing what they see. Wyze Descriptive Alerts are part of the brand's pricey Cam Unlimited Pro subscription service.

To demonstrate the new AI feature, Wyze posted several humorous examples on its website. In one case, an unfortunate man falls off his hoverboard, and the camera's app is happy to provide commentary. If raccoons knock over trash cans, the culprits are quickly identified. Also, pizza delivery persons have no chance of covering up dropped pies on doorsteps. These alerts go well beyond the simple notifications after cameras detect motion events. 

In many cases, Wyze Descriptive Alerts may provide unnecessary context. AI-Fueled Video Search is more useful because it prevents searching endless recordings. A text query can quickly locate the appropriate video capture if users need to find a specific event. Multi-camera viewing, 60-day cloud storage, and advanced automation are other key Cam Unlimited Pro capabilities.

Indoor and outdoor Wyze security cameras are relatively affordable. However, the Cam Unlimited Pro plan costs $19.99 a month for American customers. Buyers can quickly exceed the purchase cost of a Wyze Cam v4 in a few months. Nevertheless, adding descriptive alerts keeps the company competitive with rivals like Ring, which has already launched the feature.