SimpliSafe's new doorbell adds live security guards to catch threats at your door

SimpliSafe has expanded its live monitoring capabilities to the front door with the Video Doorbell Series 2, launched today at $199.99. The device integrates the company's Active Guard service, which blends automated threat detection with direct intervention from human security agents. Those agents can observe live footage, communicate with visitors, and attempt to discourage criminal activity when the system flags potential danger.

Hardware and detection capabilities#

The wired doorbell records in 2K resolution with 10x zoom capability and provides a 150-degree field of view to capture visitors head to toe. Two-way audio allows homeowners to communicate with visitors or package deliverers, while a built-in siren adds a deterrent layer. The device captures up to five seconds of video before an alert triggers, and dual-band Wi-Fi ensures stable connectivity.

Detection relies on a hybrid approach: the doorbell runs AI analysis locally, while cloud-based computer vision and facial recognition systems add another layer of threat assessment. When the system identifies suspicious activity—ranging from loitering to package theft attempts—it can summon a monitoring agent to engage in real time.

How Active Guard works#

SimpliSafe's monitoring agents can only access live footage when the system is armed and activated by an alert, which prevents constant human surveillance. The agent can observe what's happening, speak directly to the person at the door, and use verbal warnings or the siren to discourage theft or trespassing. LED lights on the doorbell signal whether an agent (amber) or homeowner (blue) is speaking.

The feature supports creating a whitelist of familiar faces—pet sitters, regular delivery drivers, family members—to prevent unnecessary interventions.

Service requirements and pricing#

Active Guard requires a Pro or Plus monitoring plan starting at $49.99 per month. The doorbell itself works with any SimpliSafe monitoring plan but needs the company's base station and keypad. It can also function with self-monitoring if recording video is the priority.