Alfred home security IP cam app brings home video surveillance on the cheap
You don't need to splurge a few hundreds for a home surveillance system if you have a cheapo old phone with a camera lying around in the house, as the Alfred app will come to the rescue.
The whole premise of the security and surveillance app is to use your existing gear and make the setup process as easy as possible. All you need is two Android phones and a Gmail account for login. Your own phone then becomes a viewer, and the oldie but goldie handset at home becomes a web cam, instead of gathering dust in the drawer. When it comes to video, smartphones today are often better than standalone IP cams, and that's exactly what Alfred is banking on.
The surveillance app lets you set multiple viewers and cameras, and you get to see your living room or baby crib less than three seconds after choosing a camera. The app compresses and adjusts the video stream's quality depending on the type of network you are on, and can send you picture messages when it detects a motion, from where you can tune into the live stream.
One of the funniest options is using Alfred as a walkie-talkie of sorts to startle the potential intruder with wise remarks, or sign a lullaby to your toddler remotely. Check it out if you have an extra Android lying around doing nothing, and are in need of home surveillance equipment.
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