Wyze Launches Affordable Smart Bulb with Built-In 2K Camera

Wyze has boldly combined two essential smart home devices into one with its new Wyze Bulb Cam. This innovative gadget functions both as a smart light bulb and a security camera, offering a unique solution for homeowners seeking to maximize functionality without clutter.

Priced at just $50, the Bulb Cam delivers impressive specs: 2K video resolution with a wide 160-degree field of view, and the ability to record in both daylight color and color night vision. This latter feature is particularly useful for identifying nighttime activity with greater clarity than traditional black-and-white night vision.

Users can choose to store footage locally on a microSD card supporting up to 256GB or subscribe to a cloud service for $3 per month, which adds object recognition capabilities. This flexibility caters to different privacy preferences and budget considerations.

On the lighting side, the Bulb Cam outputs 800 lumens with adjustable brightness via the Wyze app. While the app has had some glitches, the bulbs generally perform reliably, making this a practical choice for everyday use.

The bulb’s adjustable design ensures it fits a variety of fixtures and allows users to position the camera for optimal coverage—ideal for monitoring entrances or porches to catch package thieves or unexpected visitors.

For those wanting to expand their setup, Wyze offers an Accessory Bulb for $17 that works in tandem with the Bulb Cam to create a motion-activated lighting system. This pairing enhances security by illuminating areas when movement is detected, while the built-in two-way audio lets users listen and speak through the bulb’s microphone.

This hybrid approach to smart home technology raises an interesting question: could combining devices become the new norm for simplifying smart home ecosystems? Wyze’s Bulb Cam offers a compelling case for integration, balancing cost, convenience, and functionality.

Available now on Wyze’s website, the Bulb Cam is an accessible entry point for consumers looking to enhance their home security and lighting without investing in multiple devices. It’s a clever solution that could redefine how we think about smart home hardware.