SimpliSafe Package Detection Not Working? Here's a Fix
The package detection feature on SimpliSafe cameras provides peace of mind, alerting you the moment a delivery arrives at your door. When it stops working, you lose a valuable layer of security. If you're no longer receiving package notifications or the feature seems to have stopped functioning, don't worry. This guide will help you troubleshoot the problem and get your alerts working again.
Why Is Package Detection Failing?
Several factors can cause the package detection feature to malfunction. Understanding the potential reasons is key to fixing the issue efficiently.
- Feature Not Enabled: The most common reason is that the feature has been turned off in the settings or was never enabled in the first place.
- Incorrect Camera Placement: The camera's angle and height are crucial. If it doesn't have a clear view of the ground where packages are left, it cannot detect them.
- Outdated Firmware or App: The feature relies on software to work correctly. An outdated camera firmware or mobile app can cause glitches.
- Poor Lighting Conditions: Very low light or harsh shadows can make it difficult for the camera's AI to identify a package accurately.
- Subscription Tier: Package detection is an advanced feature that may only be available with specific monitoring plans, such as the Interactive Monitoring plan.
Step-by-Step Guide to Fix Package Detection
Follow these instructions to diagnose and resolve the issue with your SimpliSafe camera.
1. Confirm Your Monitoring Plan
First, ensure your SimpliSafe subscription includes the package detection feature.
- Log in to your account on the SimpliSafe website.
- Navigate to the Monitoring section.
- Verify that you have a plan that supports smart camera features, such as the Interactive Monitoring plan. If not, you may need to upgrade your plan to use this feature.
2. Enable Package Detection in the App
You need to make sure the setting is turned on for the specific camera.
- Open the SimpliSafe app on your smartphone.
- Tap on the Cameras tab at the bottom of the screen.
- Select the gear icon (Settings) for the camera you want to configure.
- Go to Motion Detection.
- Ensure that Package Detection is toggled on. Also, check your notification settings to ensure alerts for this feature are enabled.
3. Optimise Camera Positioning
The way your camera is positioned has a huge impact on its performance.
- Height and Angle: The camera should be mounted between 2 and 3 metres high, angled downwards to clearly see the doormat and surrounding area.
- Clear Line of Sight: Make sure there are no obstructions, such as hanging plants, pillars, or porch furniture, blocking the view of your delivery spot.
- Avoid Glare: Do not point the camera directly at the sun or other bright light sources, as this can interfere with its ability to see properly.
4. Check for Software Updates
Ensure both your app and camera are running the latest software versions.
- App Update: Visit your phone's app store (Apple App Store or Google Play Store) and check if there is an update available for the SimpliSafe app.
- Firmware Update: The camera's firmware should update automatically as long as it's connected to Wi-Fi. You can check its status in the camera's settings within the app. If you suspect it's outdated, try rebooting the camera by unplugging it from power for 30 seconds and plugging it back in. This can sometimes trigger a pending update.
5. Improve Lighting Conditions
Good lighting is essential for accurate detection.
- If your porch is dark, consider installing a porch light. Many SimpliSafe outdoor cameras also have a built-in spotlight that can be configured to turn on when motion is detected, which will help with package identification at night.
- Ensure the camera lens is clean. A smudged or dirty lens can cause blurry images that prevent the AI from working correctly. Wipe it gently with a soft, microfibre cloth.
By methodically working through these steps, you can resolve the most common issues preventing SimpliSafe's package detection from functioning as expected.