Eufy Not Detecting Packages? Here’s How to Fix It
One of the most valuable features of a modern smart camera or doorbell is Package Detection. It provides peace of mind, alerting you the moment a delivery arrives on your doorstep. So, when your Eufy camera suddenly stops sending these specific alerts, it can be a major cause for concern.
This problem is almost always related to a software setting, an incorrect configuration, or an environmental factor. By following these troubleshooting steps, you can get your Eufy Package Detection feature working reliably again.
Step 1: Check the Basics (App and Firmware)
Before diving into deep settings, let's ensure the fundamentals are in place. Manufacturers constantly refine their AI algorithms, and keeping everything updated is crucial.
- Update the Eufy Security App: Go to the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and check for any updates to the Eufy Security app. An outdated app can cause compatibility issues.
- Update Your Camera's Firmware: Inside the Eufy app, navigate to your specific camera or doorbell, tap the Settings icon (gear), and go to General > About Device. You will see a 'Check for firmware update' option. Install any available updates.
Step 2: Verify Package Detection is Enabled
It's possible the feature was accidentally disabled, perhaps after a recent app update or if you were adjusting other settings.
- Open the Eufy Security app and select the device in question.
- Tap the Settings (gear) icon.
- Go to Motion Detection.
- Ensure that the detection type is set to include Human and All Motions.
- Now, look for a specific 'Package Detection' or similar AI-related setting. Make sure the toggle is switched ON.
- You may also see related settings like 'Package Guard' or 'Loitering Detection'. Ensure these are configured to your preference.
Step 3: Review Your Activity and Privacy Zones
Activity Zones are essential for telling your camera where to look for motion. If your delivery area is excluded, the detection will fail.
How to Configure Activity Zones:
- In the camera's settings, find Activity Zone.
- You should see a view from your camera with a grid overlaid. Make sure the zone you have drawn completely covers the ground area where a courier is likely to place a package.
- Be generous with the zone. If it's drawn too tightly, a package placed just outside the line won't trigger an alert.
- Crucially, check your 'Privacy Zones'. A Privacy Zone creates a black box where the camera will not record or detect motion. Ensure you haven't accidentally created a Privacy Zone over your delivery spot.
Step 4: Optimise Camera Placement and View
The camera's physical position and what it can see are vital for the AI to work correctly.
- Clear Line of Sight: Is there anything blocking the camera's view of the doorstep? A new plant pot, a hanging basket, or even a spiderweb directly over the lens can obstruct the view and confuse the detection algorithm.
- Lighting Conditions: While Eufy cameras have excellent night vision, strong shadows, intense glare from the sun, or very low light can make it harder for the AI to identify a box shape. Ensure your delivery area is as evenly lit as possible.
- Angle and Height: The camera needs to be able to see the package clearly. If the camera is angled too high, it might only see the courier's head and shoulders. If it's too low, the view might be too limited. The ideal position is looking down slightly at your doorstep, capturing the person and the ground area around them.
Step 5: Adjust Sensitivity and Re-Sync
If the above steps haven't worked, a sensitivity adjustment might be needed.
- Adjust Motion Detection Sensitivity: In the Motion Detection settings, you'll find a sensitivity slider. If it's set too low, it may not be picking up the subtle motion of a package being placed down. Try increasing it by one level and testing it.
- Restart or Re-sync: As a final step, try restarting the camera or doorbell from within the app settings. For battery-powered devices, you can also try re-syncing it to the HomeBase. This can often resolve any temporary software glitches.
By carefully checking your settings and optimising your camera's view, you can restore the reliability of Eufy's Package Detection and never miss a delivery alert again.