PhoneWatch Alarm

The app really helps me manage our security at home and I set up alarm automations so I don’t even have to remember to turn the alarm on and off anymore, it does it all automatically! Have smartplugs too that work with status of my alarm and they are also on timers to come on and off in the evening, all via the app

This app replaces the old alarm panel but unfortunately doesn’t deliver half the functionality. Very disappointing that functionality which was available under an old system can’t be made available on the app. The app works ‘fine’ for what it does , but it’s no real use when the user cannot carry out functions. So (1) you cannot identify which sensor has been activated without talking to the control center via phone. When you have 19+ sensors & the alarm is going off at 2am - this is not the best approach. And (2) you cannot identify which sensor is causing issues when setting the alarm. You know by the tone that there is a problem somewhere and you either have to go through 4 levels of a phone menu to find the answer, or walk around each sensor to see can you see the problem. When you’re rushing out the door believe me neither is as good an option as seeing on the alarm panel which is the misbehaving sensor. And (3) you cannot decide to exclude a particular sensor from being armed without- you’ve guessed it - ringing the control center. And even then you have to do this each time you want to do something different. This was a function that was available on the more archaic system. Such a MAJOR step backwards. Let us do the simple things via the app and leave the control center to handle the genuine emergencies or support those who cannot manage an app. I So regret ‘upgrading’ my system as I’m left with sub-par functionality. Oh the good old days!

I see a lot of really bad reviews on here, I have to say I haven’t had the issues these other people have been having. I have found the App to be reliable and stable. It gives me any relevant information and allows me to turn on and off my alarm remotely. If I have one complaint, it’s that I have no access to any pictures my cameras take. This is a bit ridiculous, if someone has come into my house without an invitation from me to do so, what gives PhoneWatch the right to hide their identity from me? I’m paying for my system, I expect to be able to access this. I asked the installer, what about a camera to keep an eye on my car in the driveway? Couldn’t be done because it might record people out on the road… There are security cameras on every street in every city in the country, but I’m not allowed to have one to protect my property… it really is ridiculous! Other than that the system works well, does its job and I’m happy with it.