Linking your Ring account to your Amazon account offers a myriad of benefits, which primarily revolve around enhancing the functionality and convenience of your smart home security system. Let’s dive into the reasons why you should consider linking these two accounts.
Linking your Ring account to your Amazon account enhances the functionality of your smart home security system by integrating with Amazon Alexa, providing access to the Ring Protect Plan, enabling compatibility with Amazon Key, and simplifying account management. However, it’s essential to be aware of potential privacy concerns and take necessary precautions to protect your data.
Integration with Amazon Alexa
One of the primary benefits of linking your Ring and Amazon accounts is the seamless integration with Amazon Alexa-enabled devices. This integration allows you to control your Ring devices using voice commands through Echo devices such as Echo Show, Echo Spot, Echo Dot, and other Alexa-enabled Amazon devices like Fire Tablets.
For instance, you can ask Alexa to show you the live video feed from your Ring Video Doorbell or Ring Security Camera. You can also use Alexa to arm or disarm your Ring Alarm security system, receive motion alerts, and even use two-way talk features through your Amazon devices, all by using voice commands.
Access to Ring Protect Plan
Another advantage of linking your accounts is the access to the Ring Protect Plan. This subscription service provides additional features such as extended video storage, sharing capabilities, and professional home monitoring features. As a Ring Protect subscriber, you can store recorded videos and photos captured by your Ring cameras and doorbells in the cloud for up to 60 days (in the US).
Amazon Key Compatibility
Linking your Ring and Amazon accounts also enables you to use Amazon Key. This is a service that allows Amazon delivery drivers to securely deliver packages inside your home or garage when you’re not there. By integrating your Ring devices with Amazon Key, you can keep an eye on your deliveries in real time and review who enters and exits your home.
Simplified Account Management
By linking your Ring and Amazon accounts, you can manage all your smart home devices from one platform. Instead of having to juggle between different apps and platforms, you can control and monitor all your Ring devices through your Amazon account. This not only simplifies the management process but also makes it quicker and more efficient.
Privacy Concerns
While linking your Ring and Amazon accounts provides numerous benefits, it’s important to be aware of the potential privacy concerns. Amazon has faced multiple controversies related to privacy and security, including data sharing with law enforcement, employee access to customer data, security vulnerabilities, and extensive data collection. However, Ring provides customers control over who can see and access their videos, devices, and personal information.
Final Thoughts
Linking your Ring and Amazon accounts enhances the functionality of your smart home security system, offering integration with Amazon Alexa, access to the Ring Protect Plan, compatibility with Amazon Key, and simplified account management. However, it’s crucial to keep privacy concerns in mind and take necessary precautions to protect your data.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I link my Ring account to my Amazon account?
To link your Ring account to your Amazon account, you need to follow these steps: 1. Open the Ring app on your device. 2. Go to the menu and select ‘Control Center’. 3. Tap on ‘Linked Accounts’. 4. Tap on ‘Amazon’. 5. Follow the instructions to complete the linking process.
What other features does the Ring Protect Plan offer?
Apart from extended video storage and sharing capabilities, the Ring Protect Plan also offers features like professional monitoring services, extended warranties for all your devices, and a 10% discount on select products at Ring.com.
How can I ensure my privacy while using Amazon Key?
To ensure your privacy while using Amazon Key, you can take several steps such as: 1. Only use Amazon Key for deliveries when you’re not at home. 2. Monitor every delivery in real-time using your Ring devices. 3. Regularly change your Amazon Key access code. 4. Review the access history to check who entered and exited your home.
Can I unlink my Ring and Amazon accounts later if I want to?
Yes, you can unlink your Ring and Amazon accounts at any time. You just need to go to the ‘Control Center’ in your Ring app, select ‘Linked Accounts’, then ‘Amazon’, and finally ‘Unlink Account’.
Do I need an Amazon Echo device to use Alexa with Ring?
While having an Amazon Echo device can enhance your experience, it’s not a necessity. You can also use Alexa with Ring through other Alexa-enabled Amazon devices like Fire Tablets.