With its new app store, Ring bets on AI to go beyond home security
Ring launched an app store leveraging AI to expand its camera capabilities beyond basic home security into areas like elder care and business analytics.Summary
Amazon-owned Ring has introduced a new app store to expand the functionality of its over 100 million installed cameras, moving beyond traditional home security. This initiative, enabled by advancements in AI, allows developers to create apps for diverse uses such as elder care (e.g., fall detection), workforce analytics, and rental management. Ring CEO Jamie Siminoff stated the goal is to unlock new value from existing hardware. However, Ring is mindful of consumer backlash against surveillance; therefore, the terms prohibit privacy-invasive features like facial recognition or license plate readers. The app store will be accessible via the Ring app on iOS and Android in the U.S. initially. Interestingly, Ring is avoiding in-app purchase systems from Apple or Google by directing users to download partner apps separately, while still taking a 10% commission on sales generated through referrals. The company aims to have hundreds of apps across many verticals by the end of the year.
(Source：TechCrunch)