Introduction: 10 Apps that Work with Dropcam
Dropcam is a simple camera that lets you watch over your home using your phone. In 2014, Google bought Dropcam, making it part of its Nest family of smart home devices.
Over time, Dropcam worked with other Nest gadgets, like the Nest Thermostat and Nest Protect. This made it easier to keep your home safe and comfy.
Using apps with Dropcam made it even better. Apps like IFTTT let you set up special actions, like turning on lights when the camera sees movement. Other apps help you watch your camera from different devices. These apps made Dropcam more useful and fit your needs.
However, as of April 8, 2024, Dropcam and Dropcam Pro don’t work anymore. Google stopped supporting them, so they can’t connect to the app, stream, or record video. If you have a Dropcam, it’s time to consider getting a new camera to keep your home safe.
1: IFTTT (If This Then That)
IFTTT is a free platform that helps you connect different apps and devices. It lets you create simple rules called “Applets” to automate tasks. For example, you can set it up to save photos from your phone to Dropbox automatically.
How IFTTT Works
IFTTT uses “triggers” and “actions.” A trigger is something that happens, like receiving an email. An action is what IFTTT does in response, like saving the email to a file. By linking triggers and actions, you can automate many tasks.
IFTTT and Dropcam Integration
Dropcam was a home security camera that could work with IFTTT. By connecting Dropcam to IFTTT, you could set up actions based on what the camera detected.
For example, if Dropcam saw movement, IFTTT could turn on smart lights or send you a notification. This made home monitoring more automatic and helpful.
Important Note
As of April 8, 2024, Dropcam and Dropcam Pro no longer work because support has ended. They can’t connect to the app, stream, or record video. If you have a Dropcam, it’s time to think about getting a new camera to keep your home safe.
IFTTT Integration with Dropcam
Trigger (If This) | Action (Then That) |
---|---|
Dropcam detects motion | Turn on smart lights |
Dropcam detects sound | Send a notification to your phone |
Dropcam goes offline | Send an email alert |
Dropcam detects motion | Save a video clip to cloud storage |
Dropcam detects motion | Log the event in a Google Spreadsheet |
These examples show how IFTTT could make Dropcam more useful by connecting it with other services. This is why IFTTT was one of the top 10 apps that worked with Dropcam.
Note: Since Dropcam support has ended, these integrations are no longer available. Consider upgrading to newer devices that support similar features.
For more information on IFTTT and its capabilities, visit their official website.
To learn more about IFTTT’s mobile features, you can watch the following video:
2: Home Assistant: Open-Source Home Automation Platform
Home Assistant is a free, open-source platform that helps you control smart devices in your home. It focuses on local control and privacy, allowing you to manage various devices from one place.
Home Assistant is supported by a global community of enthusiasts and can run on devices like Raspberry Pi or local servers.
Integrating Dropcam into Home Assistant
To connect your Dropcam to Home Assistant, follow these steps:
- Install Home Assistant: Set up Home Assistant on your chosen hardware by following the installation guide.
- Add the Nest Integration: In Home Assistant, go to Settings > Integrations and search for “Nest.” Follow the instructions to set up the integration, which may require creating developer credentials through the Google Cloud Console.
- Configure the Integration: After adding the Nest integration, Home Assistant will automatically detect your Dropcam if it’s linked to your Nest account. You can then access live video feeds and control settings through the Home Assistant dashboard.
Important Note
As of April 8, 2024, Dropcam and Dropcam Pro are no longer supported and cannot connect to the app, stream, or record video.
Additionally, integrating Nest cameras, including Dropcam, into Home Assistant has faced challenges due to changes in Google’s API policies. Users have reported issues with streaming and authentication.
Home Assistant Integration with Dropcam
Step | Description |
---|---|
Install Home Assistant | Set up the platform on your hardware. |
Add Nest Integration | Configure the Nest integration within Home Assistant. |
Authenticate with Google | Provide necessary credentials to access Nest devices. |
Access Dropcam Feed | View and control your Dropcam through the Home Assistant dashboard. |
Note: Due to the discontinuation of Dropcam support and potential integration challenges, consider upgrading to newer, supported devices for optimal performance with Home Assistant.
For more information on Home Assistant and its capabilities, visit their official website.
To learn more about integrating cameras into Home Assistant, you can watch the following video:
Home Assistant Camera Integration Tutorial.
3: Google Home: Managing Your Smart Devices
The Google Home app is a free tool that helps you control and organize your smart devices. It works with many products, including lights, thermostats, and cameras, bringing them together in one place.
With Google Home, you can set up routines, manage device settings, and control your home using your voice or smartphone.
Managing Google Nest Devices with Google Home
Google Home is designed to work seamlessly with Google Nest devices. Through the app, you can:
- Set Up Devices: Easily add new Nest devices to your home network.
- Control Settings: Adjust device preferences like temperature for Nest Thermostats or view live feeds from Nest Cameras.
- Create Routines: Automate daily tasks by setting up routines that control multiple devices at specific times.
- Share Access: Invite family members to control devices, assigning different access levels as needed. The Verge
Features for Dropcam Users within Google Home
Dropcam was a home security camera that could be managed through the Google Home app. Within the app, Dropcam users could:
- View Live Streams: Watch real-time video from your Dropcam to monitor your home remotely.
- Receive Notifications: Get alerts when motion or sound is detected by your Dropcam.
- Control Settings: Adjust camera preferences, such as turning notifications on or off.
- Integrate with Routines: Include Dropcam in automated routines, like turning on lights when motion is detected.
Important Update
As of April 8, 2024, support for Dropcam and Dropcam Pro has ended. These devices no longer function, and you cannot use the Nest app or Google Home app to view live streams, receive notifications, or change settings.
Google Home Features for Dropcam Users
Feature | Description |
---|---|
View Live Streams | Watch real-time video from your Dropcam within the Google Home app. |
Receive Notifications | Get alerts for motion or sound detected by your Dropcam. |
Control Settings | Adjust camera preferences directly through the app. |
Integrate with Routines | Include Dropcam in automated routines for enhanced home automation. |
Note: Since Dropcam support has ended, these features are no longer available. Consider upgrading to newer Google Nest cameras for continued home monitoring and integration with the Google Home app.
For more information on managing smart devices with Google Home, visit their official website.
To learn more about setting up devices in the Google Home app, you can watch the following video:
How to Set Up Devices in Google Home.
4: Google Nest App: Your Home in Your Hand
The Google Nest App is a free tool that helps you control and monitor your Nest devices from your smartphone or tablet. With this app, you can manage devices like thermostats, cameras, and smoke detectors, all in one place.
It allows you to adjust settings, receive alerts, and view live video feeds, making it easier to keep your home comfortable and safe.
Managing Dropcam with the Nest App
Dropcam was an early home security camera that worked with the Nest App. Through the app, Dropcam users could:
- View Live Video: Watch real-time footage from your Dropcam to see what’s happening at home.
- Receive Alerts: Get notifications when your Dropcam detects motion or sound, helping you stay informed about unusual activity.
- Adjust Settings: Change your Dropcam’s preferences, such as turning notifications on or off, setting up activity zones, and managing video quality.
- Review Video History: With a Nest Aware subscription, access recorded video clips and see what you missed.
Important Update
As of April 8, 2024, support for Dropcam and Dropcam Pro has ended. These devices no longer function, and you cannot use the Nest App to view live streams, receive notifications, or change settings. If you have video history saved, it’s recommended to download and save important clips before this date.
Nest App Features for Dropcam Users
Feature | Description |
---|---|
View Live Video | Watch real-time footage from your Dropcam within the Nest App. |
Receive Alerts | Get notifications for motion or sound detected by your Dropcam. |
Adjust Settings | Change camera preferences directly through the app. |
Review Video History | Access recorded video clips with a Nest Aware subscription. |
Note: Since Dropcam support has ended, these features are no longer available. Consider upgrading to newer Google Nest cameras for continued home monitoring and integration with the Nest App.
For more information on managing Nest devices with the Nest App, visit the official Google Nest support page.
To learn more about setting up your camera with the Nest App, you can watch the following video:
5: ZoneMinder: Open-Source Video Management System
ZoneMinder is a free, open-source software that helps you monitor and record video from security cameras. It works with many types of cameras, including IP and USB cameras, and runs on Linux and FreeBSD systems. With ZoneMinder, you can watch live videos, detect motion, and record events to keep your home or office safe.
Integrating Dropcam with ZoneMinder
Connecting your Dropcam to ZoneMinder can give you more control over motion detection and recording. Here’s how you can set it up:
- Check Compatibility: Ensure your Dropcam can connect to ZoneMinder. Some cameras may need special settings or may not work with all features.
- Add Dropcam to ZoneMinder: In the ZoneMinder interface, add your Dropcam by entering its IP address and login details. This lets ZoneMinder access the camera’s video feed.
- Set Up Motion Detection: Use ZoneMinder’s tools to define areas in the camera’s view to watch for movement. When motion is detected, ZoneMinder can start recording automatically.
- Configure Recording Options: Decide how long recordings should last and where to save them. You can also set alerts to notify you when motion is detected.
ZoneMinder Features for Dropcam Integration
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Live Video Monitoring | Watch real-time footage from your Dropcam within ZoneMinder. |
Motion Detection | Set up zones to detect movement and trigger recordings automatically. |
Event Recording | Record video clips when motion is detected for later review. |
Alerts and Notifications | Receive notifications when motion is detected by your Dropcam. |
Note: Integrating Dropcam with ZoneMinder may require technical skills. If you’re not comfortable with these steps, consider seeking help from someone experienced with network cameras and software integration.
For more information and support, visit the ZoneMinder website.
7: Blue Iris: Managing IP Cameras
Blue Iris is a video management software that helps you watch and record video from many cameras. It works with up to 64 cameras, including IP and analog types. With Blue Iris, you can view live video, detect motion, and record events to keep your home or business safe.
Setting Up Dropcam with Blue Iris
Connecting your Dropcam to Blue Iris can be tricky because Dropcam doesn’t easily share its video stream with other software. Some users have found ways to do it, but it may not always work. Here’s a general idea of the steps involved:
- Create a Public Link: In your Dropcam (or Nest) settings, make the camera’s stream public. This gives you a link to the live video.
- Find the Video Stream URL: Open the public link in a web browser and look at the page’s code to find the direct video stream URL. This step can be hard and might not always work.
- Add Camera to Blue Iris: In Blue Iris, add a new camera and enter the video stream URL you found. Set the camera type to match the Dropcam or Nest settings.
- Configure Settings: Adjust the camera settings in Blue Iris for things like motion detection and recording.
Blue Iris Features for Dropcam Integration
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Live Video Monitoring | Watch real-time footage from your Dropcam within Blue Iris. |
Motion Detection | Set up zones to detect movement and trigger recordings automatically. |
Event Recording | Record video clips when motion is detected for later review. |
Alerts and Notifications | Receive notifications when motion is detected by your Dropcam. |
Note: Integrating Dropcam with Blue Iris can be complex and may not always work due to compatibility issues. If you’re not comfortable with these steps, consider seeking help from someone experienced with network cameras and software integration.
For more information and support, visit the Blue Iris website.
To see a tutorial on adding a camera to Blue Iris, you can watch the following video:
8: TinyCam Monitor: Versatile App for IP Camera Monitoring
TinyCam Monitor is an Android app that lets you watch and control your IP cameras from anywhere. It’s great for keeping an eye on your home, pets, or business. The app works with many camera brands and models, making it a flexible choice for users.
Features and Benefits of Using TinyCam Monitor with Dropcam
While TinyCam Monitor supports a wide range of IP cameras, integrating it with Dropcam may require additional configuration. Users have reported success in using TinyCam Monitor with various camera models, but specific compatibility with Dropcam is not explicitly documented.
Here are some features that TinyCam Monitor offers:
- Live Video Monitoring: Watch real-time video from your cameras on your Android device.
- Two-Way Audio: Talk and listen through cameras that support this feature.
- Motion Detection: Get alerts when the camera detects movement.
- Recording: Save video clips locally or to cloud storage services.
- Remote Access: Control and view your cameras from anywhere with an internet connection.
- Multiple Camera Support: Manage multiple cameras within the app.
- Tasker Integration: Automate camera functions using Tasker.
TinyCam Monitor Features
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Live Video Monitoring | Watch real-time footage from your cameras on your Android device. |
Two-Way Audio | Communicate through cameras that have a microphone and speaker. |
Motion Detection | Receive alerts when movement is detected by the camera. |
Recording | Save video clips to your device or cloud storage services. |
Remote Access | View and control your cameras from anywhere with internet access. |
Multiple Camera Support | Manage and view multiple cameras within the app simultaneously. |
Tasker Integration | Automate camera functions using the Tasker app for Android. |
Note: Before purchasing the TinyCam Monitor, check if your specific camera model is supported by visiting the official website. Some features may require the Pro version of the app.
9: Manything: Repurposing Old Devices as Security Cameras
Manything is an app that turns your old smartphones or tablets into security cameras. By installing Manything on a spare device, you can monitor your home or office without buying new equipment. This approach saves money and reduces electronic waste.
Integrating Manything with Dropcam
Manything and Dropcam are separate systems, and they don’t directly work together. Many things focus on using old devices as cameras, while Dropcam is a standalone security camera system. However, you can use both to cover different areas, expanding your surveillance coverage.
Table: Manything Features
Feature | Description |
---|---|
Live Video Streaming | Watch real-time footage from your old devices on your smartphone or tablet. |
Motion Detection | Receive alerts when movement is detected by the camera. |
Cloud Storage | Save video clips to the cloud for later viewing. |
Remote Access | View and control your cameras from anywhere with internet access. |
Multiple Device Support | Use multiple old devices as cameras simultaneously. |
Note: Everything is compatible with iOS devices. For Android users, alternative apps like TinyCam Monitor can be considered.
SecuritySpy: Video Management System for macOS Users
SecuritySpy is a video surveillance software designed for macOS users. It allows you to monitor and record video from various cameras, including IP cameras, USB cameras, and network video recorders (NVRs). The software offers features like motion detection, remote access, and high-quality recording.
Integrating Dropcam with SecuritySpy
As of April 8, 2024, Google has discontinued support for Dropcam and Dropcam Pro cameras. This means these cameras can no longer connect to the app, stream, or record video.
Due to this discontinuation, integrating Dropcam with SecuritySpy is no longer possible. Users seeking professional-grade monitoring solutions are advised to consider alternative IP cameras that are compatible with SecuritySpy. SecuritySpy supports a wide range of IP cameras, including models from brands like Axis, Amcrest, and Hikvision.
SecuritySpy Features
Feature | Description |
---|---|
High-Quality Recording | Records video and audio directly from the camera, ensuring optimal resolution and performance. |
Motion Detection | Utilizes AI-powered smart motion detection to trigger recordings and notifications accurately. |
Remote Access | Allows secure viewing and control of your camera system over the internet. |
Web Interface | Provides a user-friendly web interface for easy configuration and management. |
HomeKit Integration | Enables triggering of recordings and schedules from HomeKit events, and setting rules to control HomeKit accessories in response to camera motion detection. |
Important Considerations for Using Dropcam with Third-Party Apps
When integrating Dropcam with third-party applications, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure optimal performance and security. Here are some key points to keep in mind:
1. Compatibility
Not all apps are compatible with every Dropcam model or firmware version. Before integrating, verify that the app supports your specific Dropcam device and its current firmware. This ensures seamless functionality and prevents potential issues.
2. Cloud Storage
Many third-party apps offer cloud storage services for storing video footage. Some of these services may require a subscription for full access to features like extended storage duration or higher-resolution recordings. It’s important to understand these requirements to avoid unexpected costs.
3. Privacy
When using third-party apps, your camera feeds may be accessible to external services. Review the app’s privacy policy to understand how your data is handled, stored, and shared. Ensure that the app aligns with your privacy expectations and complies with relevant data protection regulations.
Key Considerations for Integrating Dropcam with Third-Party Apps
Consideration | Description |
---|---|
Compatibility | Ensure the app supports your specific Dropcam model and firmware version. |
Cloud Storage | Be aware of subscription requirements for cloud storage features. |
Privacy | Review the app’s privacy policy to understand data handling practices. |
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can make informed decisions when integrating Dropcam with third-party applications, ensuring a secure and efficient surveillance setup.
Conclusion: 10 Apps That Work with Dropcam
Integrating your Dropcam with third-party applications can significantly enhance its capabilities, offering features like advanced automation, expanded storage options, and improved privacy controls. By exploring and selecting from the “10 apps that work with Dropcam,” you can tailor your home security system to better meet your specific needs and preferences.
Selecting the Right App for Your Needs
When choosing an app to integrate with your Dropcam, consider the following:
- Compatibility: Ensure the app supports your specific Dropcam model and firmware version. Not all apps are compatible with every Dropcam model or firmware version. Before integrating, verify that the app supports your specific Dropcam device and its current firmware. This ensures seamless functionality and prevents potential issues.
- Features: Identify which features are most important to you, such as motion detection, cloud storage, or integration with other smart home devices.
- Technical Proficiency: Some apps may require more technical knowledge to set up and use effectively. Assess your comfort level with technology to choose an app that aligns with your skills.
By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select an app that enhances your Dropcam’s functionality and aligns with your personal preferences and technical abilities.
Key Considerations for Selecting Third-Party Apps
Consideration | Description |
---|---|
Compatibility | Ensure the app supports your specific Dropcam model and firmware version. |
Features | Identify which features are most important to you, such as motion detection, cloud storage, or integration with other smart home devices. |
Technical Proficiency | Assess your comfort level with technology to choose an app that aligns with your skills. |
By thoughtfully considering these aspects, you can enhance your Dropcam experience and create a more robust and customized home security system.