Amazon Acquires Smart Camera And Video Doorbell Company Blink
The online retail giant is looking to further expand its reach with the acquisition of Blink. Blink is most well-known for its line of intelligent security cameras, which can last up to two years using a couple of AA batteries. The long battery life means that homeowners can be more liberal about placing the cameras through the interior (or exterior) of their homes without worrying about a hard-wired power connection.
"We’re excited to announce that Blink has been acquired by Amazon," the company wrote on its website this morning. "Since launching in early 2016, we’ve been thrilled by your response to our ultra-affordable, truly wire-free video home security cameras and monitoring systems."
Blink says that you won't have to worry about any changes with regards to support. And given that Amazon is buying the company, we’re inclined to agree that customers are in pretty good hands for the near future.
"We’ll continue to operate under the Amazon umbrella selling and supporting the same great products you know and love," Blink added. "It’s Day 1 for us at Amazon, and we’re looking forward to seeing what we can deliver to our customers together."
News of the Amazon acquisition comes just days after Blink announced a new battery-powered Video Doorbell. The Blink Video Doorbell can be easily setup and connected to your home Wi-Fi network. Customers also have the option of tying the device into their existing doorbell wiring to connect with an existing home chime. The Video Doorbell can operate in the day or night, and has an IP65 classification for water resistance.
It's unknown how Amazon plans to eventually integrate Blink into its Alexa-powered hardware portfolio, or if the Blink name will eventually be retired. But at first glance, it seems highly plausible that the Video Doorbell could be integrated into the Amazon Key in-home delivery service.
