Ring, a well-known player in the smart home security market, has unveiled the latest version of its battery-powered video doorbell, simply named the Ring Battery Doorbell. This new iteration brings several significant upgrades over its predecessor, positioning it as a competitive option in the budget segment of smart doorbells. Priced at $99.99, the device is available for preorder now and will begin shipping on September 4, 2024.

One of the most notable enhancements in the Ring Battery Doorbell is the introduction of head-to-toe video capability, a feature that was previously available only in the company's higher-end models, such as the Doorbell Plus and Doorbell Pro.

This upgrade allows users to have a more comprehensive view of their porch, including any packages left on the ground. The device boasts a 150-degree by 150-degree field of view, offering a square aspect ratio that provides a complete top-to-bottom perspective of the doorstep. This is a significant improvement over the earlier models, which used a 16:9 aspect ratio and were limited in what they could capture vertically.

In addition to the enhanced video perspective, the new Ring Battery Doorbell features 1080p HD video quality, providing clear and sharp footage. While it may not match the 1536p resolution of the more expensive models, it still offers a reliable level of detail suitable for most home security needs.

The inclusion of color night vision is another critical upgrade, enabling users to see more accurately during nighttime hours compared to the traditional infrared black-and-white night vision found in many competing products.

Battery life is a crucial consideration for any battery-powered device, and Ring has addressed this by extending the battery life of the new Battery Doorbell by up to 23% compared to the previous generation. This enhancement means users will need to recharge the device less frequently, adding to the convenience of owning a battery-powered doorbell.

Ring has also redesigned the mounting system for easier installation and maintenance. The new push-pin mount allows users to remove the doorbell quickly when it's time to charge, a notable improvement over older models, which often required more effort to detach from the wall. This user-friendly design ensures that even those with limited technical skills can manage the installation and upkeep of their device with relative ease.

The new Ring Battery Doorbell sits comfortably in Ring’s lineup between the entry-level wired model and the more advanced, pricier Plus and Pro versions. The wired model, priced at $49.99, still uses the older 16:9 aspect ratio, which might be less appealing to those who prioritize full visibility of their porch area. On the other hand, the Plus and Pro models offer additional features like higher video resolution and more advanced motion detection capabilities but come at a significantly higher cost.

By introducing these premium features to a more budget-friendly model, Ring is directly competing with other brands such as Arlo, Google Nest, and Wyze, which have also incorporated head-to-toe video in their smart doorbells. This move ensures that Ring remains competitive in an increasingly crowded market, where consumers expect more advanced features even at lower price points.

Like other devices in Ring's ecosystem, the Battery Doorbell is fully integrated with the Ring app and Amazon Alexa, allowing for seamless control and monitoring. Users can customize motion detection zones, access a live view of their doorstep, and communicate through the doorbell using the Two-Way Talk feature.

For those who opt for the Ring Protect subscription, additional features become available, including person and package detection alerts and up to 180 days of video history stored in the cloud. The subscription starts at $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year, offering a reasonably affordable way to enhance the functionality of the doorbell.

The Ring Battery Doorbell is currently available for preorder through Ring.com and Amazon for $99.99, with shipping set to begin on September 4, 2024.