Abode System Showing Limited Features? Unlock Its Full Potential
The Abode home security system is one of the most flexible and powerful DIY systems on the market. However, if you're new to the platform, you might feel like you're not getting access to all the features you've heard about, such as powerful automations, video recording, or professional monitoring.
This isn't a fault with your system. Most of the time, "limited features" are simply a result of the subscription plan you are on. This guide will explain the key features of Abode, which plans they belong to, and how you can enable them to get the most out of your security setup.
## Understanding Abode's Subscription Plans
Abode's features are tiered across different subscription plans. Understanding these tiers is the key to knowing what your system can and cannot do. The plans are typically:
- Basic Plan (Free): This is the default plan. It gives you the core functionality: self-monitoring (you get push notifications), live camera viewing, and system control through the app. However, many advanced features are disabled.
- Standard Plan (Paid): This plan unlocks the smart features of your system. It includes everything from the Basic plan plus:
- Cloud video recording for your cameras.
- A detailed timeline history of events.
- Full access to the CUE automation engine.
- Geofencing capabilities.
- Smart home integrations.
- Pro Plan (Paid): This is the top-tier plan. It includes all the features of the Standard Plan plus 24/7 professional alarm monitoring and cellular backup, ensuring your system stays connected even if your internet goes down.
Now, let's look at the specific features you might be missing and how to enable them.
## Feature: CUE Automations
Problem: You want to create custom rules, like having a light turn on when a door opens, but the CUE automation section is limited or tells you to upgrade.
Solution: CUE automations are a cornerstone of the Abode experience, but they require a Standard or Pro plan. The free Basic plan does not allow you to create multi-step or complex automations. To unlock this, you will need to log into your account on the Abode website and upgrade your subscription. Once you have an active plan, the full CUE menu in the app will become available, allowing you to create powerful, customised rules for your home.
## Feature: Video Recording
Problem: You can view the live feed from your Abode cameras, but no video clips are ever recorded or saved when motion is detected or an alarm is triggered.
Solution: Video recording and cloud storage are premium features available on the Standard and Pro plans. The Basic plan only provides live streaming. As soon as you upgrade your subscription, your cameras will automatically begin recording clips based on their settings and storing them in your timeline for you to review, download, and share.
### Feature: Geofencing
Problem: You want the system to automatically arm when you leave home and disarm when you return, but the option is greyed out or unavailable.
Solution: Location-based automation, or geofencing, is another feature reserved for the Standard and Pro plans. To use this, you must first upgrade your subscription. After that, you'll need to go into the Abode app's settings and:
- Enable the geofencing feature.
- Grant the Abode app "Always On" or "Allow all the time" location permissions in your smartphone's settings. This is crucial for it to know when you've left or entered your home's designated radius.
### Feature: Professional Monitoring
Problem: Your alarm triggers, but you only get a push notification. No monitoring centre calls you or dispatches emergency services.
Solution: 24/7 professional monitoring is the defining feature of the Pro plan. If you are on the Basic or Standard plans, you are in "self-monitoring" mode. To activate professional monitoring, you must upgrade to the Pro plan through the Abode website. You will also need to provide your address and emergency contact details so the monitoring centre knows where to send help.
By aligning the features you want with the correct subscription plan, you can easily "unlock" the full power of your Abode system and tailor it to your exact security and smart home needs.