Blue Iris

I’ve had a BI setup for over 5 years. While I’ve had minor qualms with it here and there, it’s got significant bang-for-the-buck. Like several other comments, most recent software updates have introduced new features or settings which has somehow dropped the automatic counters on the phone app. However, the app is powerful, software is extremely powerful, and the software runs with professional runtime without crashing. It’s been quite reliable for us. The downside of flexible software is that there is a higher learning curve. It’s really not for the faint of heart. Folks wanting something easier to set up might look elsewhere. The developer is advised to remember his target market as he makes changes, and watching for the competitors and see what they are doing. I’ve considered going to another system but to date, BI has still been the best fit for our use.

I was slightly hesitant to buy the app since a lot of recent reviews have low ratings, but I’m not disappointed at all. As long as you have the server (works with v5) and your cameras configured properly, all the functions of the app work perfectly. Even 3D push notifications (notifications with an alert image) work perfect, and if you have an Apple Watch, the alert image notification pops up on your wrist without ever having to pull out your phone or laptop to see what triggered the alarm. The UI is a little outdated but all the critical features like streaming options for LAN vs WAN/LTE, browse alerts and clips, do basic management of the server, and getting alerts all work perfect which makes this the perfect companion app for Blue Iris. A+

I didn’t want to implement a stand-alone NVR. This server software that runs on one of my PCs is fantastic and meets my needs. Together the PC Blue Iris software and this App do everything I could ask for. I have configured into Blue Iris cameras from both TRENDnet and SUNBA manufacturers. I have configured all cameras to record continuously - 24/7. But you can establish time of day recordings or motion-triggered recordings if that’s your preference. I have the storage capacity for continuous recording. The PC is loaded with three 1TB SSD drives dedicated to retaining 30 days of content for all of the 8 cameras I have installed into BI. I plan to add a HIkvision doorbell camera as soon as it arrives from ALIExpress (not available yet in U.S.). The server software allows review of saved videos and they can be viewed slowly or at speeds up to 256x. The videos can be exported to .mp4 format. I will say because BI is so robust there is a substantial learning curve to become fluent with all its features. And independently of BI one needs to be experienced with their router, with static IP addresses for the cameras, and proper port forwarding. Basic router/camera stuff. But in the end, using my iPhone and this nifty App, I have full access to all my cameras, video & audio (audio if supported by the camera) from inside the home or from ANYWHERE in the world. The server software is reasonably priced as is the App. You cannot go wrong. If I had it to do over again, I would.