Comcast is turning millions of its routers into motion detectors
Comcast is enabling Wi-Fi motion sensing on millions of existing Xfinity routers through a software update. This feature allows the routers to act as home security monitors by detecting disruptions in Wi-Fi signals.
Why it matters
It demonstrates how existing consumer hardware can be repurposed for home security, potentially disrupting the standalone smart home sensor market.
Comcast is bringing Wi-Fi motion sensing to millions of routers that are already in customers’ homes, turning the devices into activity monitors. A new update to the Xfinity Internet app, arriving today, August 18th, enables the feature on compatible Xfinity routers at no extra cost.
Announced as part of its new Xfinity Shield service, WiFi Motion can monitor activity in your home and send you notifications, similar to a standalone motion sensor. It works by detecting disruptions in the Wi-Fi signal between the Xfinity gateway and any Wi-Fi-connected device, giving you some insight into what’s happening in your home without buying additional hardware. Xfinity Shield is free for all customers and includes a new advanced security feature that protects devices from online threats, including malware and phishing attacks, and improved parental controls.
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