Honeywell Package Detection Missing? Here’s How to Get It Working
Honeywell's smart security cameras offer intelligent alerts, and one of the most useful is package detection. This feature is designed to notify you specifically when a courier leaves a parcel, giving you peace of mind and helping to prevent theft. If you're finding that your camera isn't sending these specific alerts, this troubleshooting guide will help you pinpoint and fix the problem.
### How Does Package Detection Work?
Package detection doesn't rely on simple motion. The camera uses advanced computer vision algorithms (AI) to analyse shapes within its view. It's trained to recognise the typical size and form of a box or satchel. When it identifies a new object that matches these criteria within a designated area, it sends a specific "Package Detected" notification to your phone.
Solving Missing Package Detection Alerts
Most issues with this feature are related to software settings or camera placement. Follow these steps to get your alerts working correctly.
1. Verify the Feature is Enabled
First, you need to make sure the setting is actually turned on in the Honeywell Home app.
- Open the Honeywell Home app and select your camera.
- Tap the settings cog icon to enter the camera's settings menu.
- Look for a section called "Alerts" or "Event Detection".
- Within this menu, you should see toggles for different types of smart alerts, such as "People," "Vehicles," and "Packages."
- Ensure the "Packages" toggle is switched to the 'On' position.
Note: Package detection may be a premium feature tied to a specific subscription plan. Check your plan details to confirm it's included.
2. Configure Your Activity Zones Correctly
This is the most common reason for package detection failure. The camera will only look for packages inside the 'Activity Zones' you define. If a package is left outside of a zone, it will be ignored.
- In the camera's settings, find the "Activity Zones" menu.
- Ensure you have a zone drawn that completely covers the area where deliveries are left. This is typically your front step, porch, or entryway.
- Don't just draw a narrow box. Make the zone generous enough to include the entire surface where a package might be placed. You can have multiple zones active if needed.
3. Optimise Camera Placement and Angle
The camera's AI needs a clear and direct view to work effectively.
- Unobstructed View: The camera's view of the delivery zone should not be blocked by columns, large plants, furniture, or other objects.
- Angle is Key: The ideal angle is from above, looking down at the delivery area at roughly a 45-degree angle. A camera positioned too low or at a side-on angle may struggle to recognise the shape of a box.
- Distance Matters: The camera should be close enough to see the package clearly. If the camera is too far away, the package may be too small in the frame for the AI to analyse confidently. Aim for the package to occupy a reasonable portion of the overall image.
4. Check for Good Lighting
While the cameras are designed to work in various lighting conditions, extremely poor light can reduce accuracy.
- Daytime: Ensure the delivery area is well-lit during the day and not cast in a deep, dark shadow for most of the day.
- Night-time: For night deliveries, your porch light should be on, or you should rely on the camera's own colour or infrared night vision to illuminate the scene properly. A completely dark scene can make detection impossible.
5. Update Your App and Firmware
Manufacturers constantly refine their detection algorithms. Running outdated software can mean you're missing out on performance improvements.
- App Update: Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store and check if there is an update available for the Honeywell Home app.
- Firmware Update: The app will typically notify you if a firmware update is available for your camera. Ensure you install any pending updates to keep your device's software current.
By systematically checking these settings, you can resolve most issues with missing package detection and ensure you're always aware of your important deliveries.