Ring Motion Warning — What is it and How to Use it Effectively

What is Ring Motion Warning?

Ring Motion Warning is a feature that allows you to play a customizable audio warning to anyone who triggers motion detection on your Ring devices. Instead of relying solely on visual alerts, such as notifications or lights, Motion Warning adds an auditory component to alert individuals in your vicinity about motion detection.

Ring security cameras are equipped with motion detection capabilities that trigger various actions based on detected movement. When a person is detected in front of a Ring camera, it begins recording their movement and simultaneously delivers an audible message through its built-in speaker. This message typically consists of a greeting such as "Hi, you are currently being recorded."

Once the motion is detected and the message is played, you will receive a notification on your smartphone via the Ring app, informing you that a motion warning has been triggered. If you have enabled the feature, you can also view the live camera feed to monitor the activity in real time.

Motion Alert vs Motion Warning

When it comes to motion detection features in Ring devices, it's important to understand the distinction between Motion Alert and Motion Warning. While they both serve to notify you of detected motion, they differ in their delivery and purpose.

• Motion Alert: A Motion Alert is a standard notification that is sent to your smartphone or other connected devices when motion is detected by your Ring device. It provides you with real-time information about activity near your device, allowing you to be aware of any potential events or visitors. Motion Alerts are typically delivered through the Ring app or via push notifications, depending on your app settings.

• Motion Warning: On the other hand, Motion Warning takes the concept of motion detection a step further by incorporating an audible component. When motion is detected by a compatible Ring device, such as a doorbell or camera, it can audibly play a customizable warning message through its built-in speaker. The purpose of this warning is to alert individuals in the vicinity that their actions have triggered the motion detection and that they are being recorded or monitored.

While Motion Alerts rely on visual notifications and remote access to the Ring app, Motion Warning adds an extra layer of awareness by delivering an audio message on-site. This audible warning can potentially act as a deterrent to intruders or provide polite notice to visitors.

Pros and Cons of the Motion Warning Feature

The Motion Warning feature in Ring devices offers several advantages and considerations that users should be aware of. Let's explore the pros and cons of utilizing this feature:

Pros:

• Enhanced Security: The Motion Warning feature adds an extra layer of security by audibly alerting individuals that their movements have triggered motion detection. This can potentially deter intruders or unwelcome visitors, enhancing the overall security of your property.

• Real-Time Awareness: With the audio warning, you can be immediately notified of motion detection even if you are not actively monitoring your Ring device or have your phone nearby. This provides you with real-time awareness of any activity near your device.

• Customizable Audio: The Motion Warning feature allows you to customize the warning message that is played when motion is detected. You can record a personalized message or choose from pre-recorded options, giving you the flexibility to tailor the warning to your specific needs.

• Complements Other Features: Motion Warning can be used in conjunction with other Ring features, such as lights or sirens, to create a comprehensive security system. By combining multiple deterrents, you can maximize the effectiveness of your home security setup.

Cons:

• Limited Range: The audio warning produced by Ring devices may have a limited range and may not reach individuals who are far away from the device's location. This means that the effectiveness of the warning may be dependent on the proximity of the individuals to the device.

• False Positives: Depending on the sensitivity settings and environmental factors, there is a possibility of false motion detections triggering unnecessary warnings. For example, wind-blown objects or small animals may trigger motion detection, leading to false alarms and unnecessary audio warnings.

• Annoyance Potential: In some cases, repeated motion warnings might become a nuisance for neighbors or individuals who are familiar with your property. The audio alerts could be disruptive and potentially lead to complaints if they occur frequently or at inconvenient times.

• Compatibility Limitations: Not all Ring devices support the Motion Warning feature. It is important to check the compatibility of your specific device before expecting this functionality. Battery-powered Ring cameras, for instance, do not currently support Motion Warning.

Ring Device Compatibility

The Ring motion warning feature is currently only available in the United States. Additionally, not all Ring cameras support this feature. Only devices that are connected to power through an AC adaptor have the capability to deliver motion warnings, including the Stick Up Cam, Floodlight Cam, and the Ring Doorbell lineup. Unfortunately, Ring's battery-powered devices do not support motion warnings at this time.

If you own one of the eligible devices listed below but don't see the feature, ensure that you have the latest version of the Ring app installed:

• Stick Up Cam Elite

• Stick Up Cam Plug In (3rd Gen)*

• Indoor Cam

• Spotlight Cam Wired

• Spotlight Cam Mount

• Floodlight Cam

• Floodlight Cam Wired Pro

• Floodlight Cam Wired Plus

• Ring Video Doorbell Pro

• Ring Video Doorbell Pro 2 

• Ring Video Doorbell Elite

*Motion Warning is supported by the Stick Up Cam Plug-In (3rd Gen) when it is installed in wired mode and powered by an AC adaptor.

Steps to Check if Your Ring Device Has This Feature

To determine if your device supports Motion Warnings, follow these steps:

1. Go to your home screen in the Ring app.

2. Select your specific device from the list.

3. Under your device's settings, you will find four toggle options: Ring Alerts, Motion Detection, Motion Alerts, and Motion Warning.

If your device is not eligible for Motion Warning, you will notice that the toggle button for this feature will be grayed out and unusable.

On the other hand, if you are able to toggle the Motion Warning option without any issues, it means your device supports this feature, giving you the choice to use it or not.

How to Enable Motion Warning

To enable the Motion Warning feature, follow these steps:

1. Open the Ring app on your smartphone or tablet.

2. Tap on the three horizontal lines (≡) located at the top left corner of the app.

3. From the menu that appears, select "Devices."

4. Choose the specific device for which you want to enable or disable Motion Warning.

5. You will be directed to the Device Dashboard screen. Ensure that you have set up at least one Motion Zone for the device to activate Motion Warning.

6. In the top right corner of the screen, you will find a toggle switch for Motion Warning. To enable Motion Warning, tap the switch.

7. Once enabled, you will receive a confirmation message indicating that Motion Warning is now enabled.

How to Disable Motion Warning

Disabling the Motion Warning feature on your Ring device follows a similar process to enabling it. Simply toggle the Motion Warning switch off, and you will no longer audibly warn individuals when motion is detected by your device's motion sensor.

Alternative Ways to Warn Visitors & Intruders

In addition to utilizing the Motion Warning feature provided by Ring devices, there are alternative ways to warn visitors and potential intruders about surveillance or recording on your property. These methods can further enhance your security measures. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Security Signage: Display prominent signs or stickers indicating the presence of surveillance cameras or an alarm system on your property. These signs act as a visual deterrent, alerting individuals that they are being monitored and potentially recorded.

2. Audio Warning Devices: Install standalone audio warning devices or integrate them into your security system. These devices can be triggered by motion detection or manually activated to deliver a verbal warning message, indicating that the area is under surveillance and that actions are being recorded. You can opt to install a Ring Alarm Motion Detector, which is specifically designed to monitor and detect heat and movement within a room or designated area of your home. This works in conjunction with other components of the Ring Alarm system, such as the base station, keypad, and mobile app, to provide a comprehensive security solution for your home or property.

3. Two-Way Audio: Ring devices that support two-way audio functionality, such as the Ring Video Doorbells, allow you to communicate in real time with visitors or potential intruders through the device's speaker and microphone. You can verbally warn them about the presence of surveillance and the recording of their actions.

4. Exterior Lighting: Properly illuminate your property with lights that can detect motion. These lights serve multiple purposes, including deterring intruders and alerting individuals that their presence has triggered the motion sensors. Well-lit areas can discourage unwanted activities.

5. Neighborhood Watch: Engage with your local community and participate in a neighborhood watch program. Working together with neighbors to keep an eye on each other's properties can create a safer environment and act as a collective warning to potential intruders.

Remember, the effectiveness of these alternative methods can vary depending on various factors, such as the layout of your property, local regulations, and the willingness of individuals to adhere to warnings. Choose the options that best suit your specific needs and consider consulting local authorities or security professionals for additional advice.

FAQ

How does Ring Motion Detection work?

Ring devices utilize various sensors, including infrared, motion sensors, and image sensors, to detect motion. When motion is detected, the device sends a notification or triggers an alert based on the user's settings.

How do you schedule a Motion Warning on a Ring?

As of the current Ring software version, Motion Warning cannot be scheduled. It is triggered automatically when motion is detected.

Can you change the Ring Motion Warning?

As of writing, there is no option to have a custom Motion Warning.

 

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