Logitech’s Circle View Doorbell is Safe... For Now

Apple HomeKit users can heave a sigh of relief as Logitech confirms the continued production and availability of its Circle View Doorbell and Circle View Camera. This announcement comes amidst recent uncertainty fueled by comments from Logitech's new CEO, Hanneke Faber, during an interview on The Verge’s Decoder podcast.

The CEO’s Statement: A Cause for Concern

In a conversation with The Verge’s Editor-in-Chief, Nilay Patel, Logitech’s CEO Hanneke Faber suggested that the company’s smart home products, including the Circle View lineup, were “pretty much gone.” She did, however, note the need to "double-check" this information, indicating a potential shift in the company's focus towards its core categories: personal workspace, video conferencing, and gaming.

Official Clarification: Circle View Products Are Here to Stay

Following Faber’s comments, Logitech’s Global Head of Communications, Wendy Spander, provided much-needed clarity. Spander confirmed that the Circle View Doorbell and Circle View Camera are still in production and available for purchase. These products are also in stock and ready to ship from Logitech’s website and retail partners.

Image: The Logitech Circle View Camera, a key player in the Apple HomeKit ecosystem.

The Importance of Circle View for Apple HomeKit Users

The Circle View lineup is among the few security camera options compatible with Apple’s HomeKit Secure Video service, making it a crucial product for smart home users who prioritize security and privacy. The potential discontinuation of these products would have significantly limited the options available for HomeKit users.

Future of Logitech’s Smart Home Products

Despite the reassurance about the current availability of the Circle View products, the future remains uncertain. The last smart home product launch from Logitech was over three years ago, with the Circle View Doorbell. Given Faber’s clear emphasis on focusing the company’s efforts on other core areas, it seems unlikely that Logitech will introduce new smart home products in the near future.

However, Faber did mention that Logitech would continue to support all its existing products for some time. This includes both the discontinued Circle camera lineup and the currently available Circle View products. This continued support is crucial for users who rely on these products for their smart home setups, as it ensures ongoing functionality and security updates.

Conclusion

While Logitech's smart home future may be in question, current users of the Circle View Doorbell and Camera can rest assured that these products are still being supported and sold. As the market for smart home devices continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how Logitech will navigate this segment under its new leadership.

For more updates and in-depth tech news, stay tuned to Kushal Bharat Tech News.