LightCam: a smart light bulb that doubles as a security camera

Smart light bulbs are all the hype, and we are glad to see LIFX and Philips Hue are no longer the only players in the game. Manufacturers are rising across the industry; some with very interesting ideas. So far we haven’t seen anything like LightCam, though. It is pretty much what it sounds like—a smart light that doubles as a security camera.

Other featured crowdfunding projects:

• PITTA – modular action camera can turn into a selfie drone in seconds
• ButterflyVPN is a router that unlocks the internet on-the-go
• AIrrowy takes your mind off signals while keeping roads safe

The concept is rather simple, but it is clear the team did a good job setting up a strategy in the drawing board. In terms of lighting, the bulb can be easily controlled through an app, which allows for setting up on/off schedules. Alternatively, you can set it up so it turns on with motion. It needs no hubs and fits into any light socket. Things can’t get any simpler, really.

Now, the interesting part here is the camera. The bulb was made to accommodate most sockets, and lamps, and it can be extended to become longer. The camera can be rotated, pulled out and directed vertically. Easily aim it at any area of your choosing.

Features include 1080p video capture, infrared night vision, motion alerts and a “weatherproof” construction. Live footage can be accessed remotely, saved to the light’s on-board storage (which is enough for about a week’s recordings), or backed up to the cloud. If you prefer going the old-fashioned way, video can also be backed up to a computer, phone, or tablet.

All in all, this is a great alternative to conventional security cameras. It also helps that it looks nothing like a security camera. Chances are it will raise no suspicions, keeping your family secure while going undetected.

Interested? You can get one for as low as $89 through the Indiegogo campaign. That would be a 50% discount over the $179 estimated retail value. Not bad, considering it’s essentially the price of a smart bulb and a camera. It will be shipping in August and has reached 58% of its goal.