Reolink partners with Home Assistant for local privacy upgrades

Reolink has established a partnership with Home Assistant to offer users enhanced privacy and interoperability when integrating Reolink devices within local smart home ecosystems.

With this collaboration, most Reolink cameras, with the exception of 4G models, now support processing of video feeds, artificial intelligence alerts, and device controls entirely within home networks.

This approach is designed to provide users with greater autonomy and data privacy by reducing reliance on external cloud servers.

Fabrice Klohoun, Marketing Communications Director at Reolink, stated, "Security should adapt to users, not the other way around."

"By partnering with Home Assistant, we're ensuring that users can integrate Reolink devices into their smart homes with complete control, privacy, freedom and reliability."

The partnership makes Reolink a platinum-tier partner of Home Assistant, which is the highest level of partnership classification available within the platform.

The designation reflects a commitment to seamless integration, reliable performance, and prompt user support without risking privacy or experiencing system overloading.

Home Assistant is known for its privacy-first architecture and local operational capabilities, allowing users to coordinate and automate a large variety of smart devices without dependence on cloud-based systems. According to Home Assistant, there are over one million active installations of the platform globally, and it supports integration with over 3,000 brands.

There are two main advantages highlighted as a result of the collaboration. The first is the enhanced privacy and flexibility arising from local network operation.

By keeping data and video streams within a user's private network, owners maintain sole control and reduce security risks related to external access or vulnerabilities often associated with cloud services.

The second advantage is the potential for seamless integration with thousands of brands, enabling users to create bespoke smart home security automations.

For example, the press release notes that pressing a Reolink Battery Doorbell could automatically activate outdoor lights and secure a gate via a smart lock through the Home Assistant platform. This level of cross-device connectivity is aimed at providing customisable and convenient security options for smart home enthusiasts.

Miranda Bishop, Partnership Manager at the Open Home Foundation, said, "We're thrilled to welcome the first cameras to the 'Works With Home Assistant Program' via Reolink."

"Reolink's commitment to a top-quality, locally-focused integration is a real line in the sand. It shows a true understanding of users' desire for private and secure camera options that work seamlessly in a Smart Home."

As a platinum-tier partner, Reolink assures that device integrations will feature faster updates, consistent technical support, and no additional delay or compromise to user privacy.

This aligns with Reolink's stated aim to enable flexibility, reliability, and a user-centric experience in home security solutions.

The majority of Reolink products, excluding 4G-enabled models, are set to benefit from these capabilities. Users interested in integrating their Reolink cameras with Home Assistant will be able to do so, taking advantage of the privacy and interoperability enhancements now available through this partnership.