Ring announced the latest model in its line of video bells, the Video Doorbell Pro 2. The Pro 2 is a new top-of-the-line model that comes with a number of improvements over its predecessor, including a wider field of view high and enhanced motion detection capabilities. It is available for pre-order for $ 249.99 starting today, with shipments due to start on March 31, 2021.
The most significant update for Pro 2 is its new square video capture. First popularized by Google’s Nest Hello and adopted by many other video bells, this field of view makes it possible to see who is at your door from head to toe. It also allows you to see when packages are left on the floor in front of the doorbell. Pro 2 captures a 1536 x 1536 pixel image and is the first ring model not to use the traditional 16: 9 wide view.
The second major update is in motion detection for Pro 2. Ring is calling this new feature “3D motion detection” and says it allows you to “pinpoint the location and time when a motion event starts” In addition, a new panoramic view shows a top-down image of the detected movement, allowing you to see where someone crossed your property from above. Ring says it is possible to customize the specific point where the new motion detection and video recording starts, thanks to the new radar sensors in Pro 2. You can also customize other zones of movement and privacy, just as you can with other cameras of the Ring.
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Ring also says that Pro 2’s audio features have been enhanced with a matrix microphone, and new preset responses can be set for when you’re not at home. Those who subscribe to a Ring Protect Plan can use Alexa Greetings, which offers a more advanced answering service.
Like the previous Video Doorbell Pro, the Pro 2 is a wired model and uses no battery. This means that you need to have the bell wiring in place or be willing to connect power to it if you want to install it on your door.
Competition in the video buzzer space has warmed up somewhat in recent years, with a number of new competitors bringing innovative features to the space. The Ring, which can be credited for popularizing the idea of a video doorbell, has been criticized mainly for its privacy policies and partnerships with the police in recent years. That didn’t stop it from being the most common video doorbell and the de facto brand when people think of this product category. Pro 2 is Ring’s answer to many of these new competitors, and it will be interesting to see its performance as soon as we can test it.