Next level intercom solutions

A conversation with Daniel Malz, Sales Manager at Bird Home Automation

Based in Berlin, Bird Home Automation GmbH are true pioneers within the smart home space. The company develops and manufactures products under the DoorBird brand, specialising in IP-based video door intercoms, access control devices, and much more. DoorBird is suited to a whole range of properties, from houses and apartments, to hotels and kindergartens.

At the heart of it, DoorBird’s solutions reflect a shift away from analogue technology as more and more property owners look to integrate their building’s security and access infrastructure with personalised smart technology. The overall security benefits of this are huge, not to mention making life a whole lot more convenient.

The Luxury Report caught up with Daniel Malz, Sales Manager at Bird Home Automation to understand more about the product range and the many advantages – as well as learning about the DoorBird configurator system, which allows customers to tailor their very own door-entry system.

Please outline the benefits of IP-based video door intercoms. Why does DoorBird offer so much more in terms of security and convenience over traditional analogue systems?

Daniel Malz: Our video door intercoms are all IP-based and they provide a significant advantage over traditional analogue systems in several ways. Firstly, they enable real-time audio and video communication between the visitor and the property owner, and this can be used from any location around the world. It provides a major obstacle for intruders, as they will often ring the doorbell to see if someone is at home. But with our solution, you can be present all of the time, even if you are not at home.

Additionally, our systems work seamlessly with other smart home technologies, which allows for features such as remote door unlocking, motion detection alerts and video recording devices. This means not only improved security but also enhanced convenience. For instance, you can grant access to delivery services or visitors without needing to physically be there, and can monitor and review video footage if needed.

Please also outline the range of other options that DoorBird offers. For example, you have solutions for garages, bicycle storage, and more.

DM: Our product range extends beyond just the front door intercom. Like you have mention, we offer solutions for garages, bicycle storage, gates and other entry points around the property. Our devices can be installed to control the access to these areas via smartphones, which is especially useful for managing multiple entry points in larger properties. For instance, we also have standalone access control devices, and these solutions provide the same level of security and convenience as our main door intercom systems.

But DoorBird isn’t just for residential buildings, is it? Please talk a little about the other types of premises that it’s tailored for.

DM: That is correct, the same reasons that DoorBird is an excellent solution for residential buildings makes it ideal for commercial buildings such as hotels, offices, apartment complexes and even kindergartens/nurseries. In terms of hotels and offices, our system can manage access for staff and visitors which improves security and operational efficiency. On the other hand, in kindergartens/nurseries our intercoms provide an added layer of security by allowing staff to screen visitors before granting the access which ensures the safety of the children.

For those that already have smart home automation, how can DoorBird integrate with their existing infrastructure? And again, please outline the benefits of this.

DM: DoorBird is designed to be highly compatible with existing smart home systems via our API. This integration allows users to control our devices alongside other smart home devices from a single interface, which in turn creates a seamless smart home experience for the user. The benefits of this integration include enhanced convenience and expanded functionality. For example, you can set up routines for your smart lights when someone is ringing the door intercom. Or your smart thermostat adjusts when you come home and are unlocking the door. This level of integration not only improves the user experience but also enhances overall home security and energy efficiency.

You’ve also introduced a Configurator so customers can design their very own solution. How does this work and what are the main advantages of tailoring your system?

DM: The DoorBird configurator is an online tool that allows customers to customise their intercom system to meet their specific needs. Users can select different modules and features, such as specific coatings, button layouts and access control options to create a system that fits their property perfectly. The configurator provides a visual representation of the chosen setup, making it easy to see how the product finally look and function.

The main advantage of this customisation is that it allows for a tailored security solution that fits the unique requirements for each property. Whether you need a simple intercom for a single family home or a complex system for a multi-tenant building or multi-apartment building, our configurator ensures that you get exactly what you need.

We understand that all of your products are developed and manufactured in Germany. Please highlight the importance of this.

DM: Developing and manufacturing our products in Germany is a core part of our commitment to the quality of our products. Germany is known for its high manufacturing standards and by keeping the production local, we can closely monitor each step of the process ensuring that every DoorBird product meets our strict quality requirements.

Additionally, manufacturing in Germany allows us to be more agile in responding to customer feedback and market demands. We can quickly make adjustments and improvements to our products maintaining a high level of innovation and customer satisfaction.

On your website you say that you use “bank-level encryption technologies”. Can you expand on what this means, and the added benefits it brings.

DM: Bank-level encryption refers to the advanced security protocols we use to protect data transmitted through our systems. This includes end-to-end encryption which ensures that video and audio securely encrypted from the moment it is captured until it reaches the user’s device. This level of security is comparable to what’s used in the banking industry to protect sensitive financial information. The added benefit of this high level of encryption is being safe in the knowledge that our customers’ data is safe from interception and hacking. So, whether you’re communicating with someone at your door or accessing recording footage, you can be confident that your data is private and protected.

Can you please also expand on some of the technology included within the product. For example, night vision, RFID reader, etc?

DM: Our products are equipped with a variety of advanced technologies that enhance their functionality and performance. For example, our intercom’s high- definition camera with night vision capabilities allows the homeowner to receive clear video footage even in low light conditions – this ensures that you can identify visitors at any time of the day or night. Additionally, many of our devices include RFID readers or keyless entry. This technology allows users to unlock doors using RFID cards or fobs, increasing convenience for residents and adding an extra layer of security.

Our other features include motion sensors which can trigger alerts or recordings and also integration with smart locks, such as Yale and home automation systems, allowing comprehensive control over your properties access and security.

Overall, DoorBird combines cutting-edge technologies with user-friendly design to provide superior security and convenience for residential and commercial properties.

Further information – doorbird.com