Ring Intercom Video is a software and hardware update to Ring’s apartment intercom system that adds video streaming capabilities, allowing renters to see and speak with visitors through the Ring app before granting building access. The system works with existing video-enabled intercom hardware in multi-unit buildings, transforming voice-only systems into smart video doorbells without requiring door modifications.
Key Takeaways
- Ring Intercom Video streams live video from compatible building intercoms to your phone via the Ring app.
- Auto-Verified Deliveries feature grants Amazon drivers time-limited access for secure package drop-offs inside buildings.
- Introductory price of £70 in the UK, rising to £100 from 2 December; original Ring Intercom Audio reduced to £80.
- Installation removes existing intercom faceplate and mounts the Ring device without door drilling or structural changes.
- Integrates with other Ring devices through Device Linking for motion-triggered recording and smart home automation.
What Ring Intercom Video Actually Solves for Renters
Renters face a persistent smart home barrier: landlords prohibit door modifications, making traditional video doorbells impossible. Ring Intercom Video sidesteps this entirely by replacing the existing building intercom faceplate instead of installing a separate doorbell. You see visitors in real time, speak to them through the app, and control building access remotely—all without drilling holes or installing anything on your personal door frame. This addresses what reviewers call a major pain point for apartment dwellers.
The system requires compatibility with your building’s existing intercom hardware. Setup involves scanning a QR code or entering a five-digit PIN through the Ring app, then checking compatibility at ring.com/compatibility. Installation typically means removing the old intercom faceplate using a screwdriver (the method varies: screw-fastened, hidden tabs, or pry-off designs), mounting the Ring Intercom device, and replacing the cover. Ring recommends professional installation for some setups, though many users handle it themselves.
Ring Intercom Video vs. the Original Ring Intercom Audio
The original Ring Intercom Audio, now priced at £80 in the UK, offered voice-only communication—you could hear visitors and speak back, but not see them. Ring Intercom Video eliminates this limitation by adding live video streaming from compatible intercoms, transforming the experience from audio-only to full two-way video. If your building’s intercom system supports video output, the upgrade is straightforward: the Ring Intercom Video hardware integrates smoothly with the existing infrastructure.
For buildings without video-enabled intercoms, Ring offers the Ring Intercom Kit at $17.99 (US and continental Canada only), which lets you replace an older intercom system entirely with a compatible Ring Video Doorbell model such as the Wired Doorbell Pro or Battery Doorbell Pro. This option suits buildings where the existing intercom is too outdated or incompatible to upgrade.
Auto-Verified Deliveries and Smart Home Integration
Ring Intercom Video includes Auto-Verified Deliveries, a feature that grants Amazon drivers time-limited access codes to enter the building and drop packages inside securely. Rather than leaving parcels at the building entrance where they might be stolen, drivers can enter the lobby or designated area and place items safely. You control the time window and can monitor the interaction through video.
The device also supports Device Linking, which connects Ring Intercom Video to other Ring products in your ecosystem—motion detection at the intercom can automatically trigger recording on linked Ring cameras or turn on connected smart lights. Shared Users lets you grant friends and family access to view the intercom feed and control building entry, useful for guests or trusted neighbors.
Pricing, Availability, and Setup Timeline
Ring Intercom Video launches at an introductory price of £70 in the UK, available now. The price rises to the standard £100 from 2 December, so early adopters save £30. The original Ring Intercom Audio drops to £80, making it a more affordable option if your building lacks video-capable intercom hardware. US pricing and availability remain unconfirmed as of now, with only the Ring Intercom Kit listed for North American customers.
Setup takes roughly 15-20 minutes for most users. Download the Ring app, tap Set Up a Device, select Intercoms, and scan the QR code on the device or packaging—or enter the five-digit PIN if scanning fails. Configure access controls including Auto-Verified Deliveries, Shared Users, and Device Linking, then physically install the hardware by removing the old faceplate, mounting the Ring Intercom, and replacing the cover. Leave the device powered on to download the latest software updates automatically.
Security and Long-Term Support
Ring maintains security updates for its intercom and doorbell devices through 2027-2030 depending on the specific model, with ongoing software releases like cam-1.29.11000+ rolling out regularly. The company also supports Home Assistant integration for advanced automation, allowing Ring Intercom Video to trigger custom routines in open-source smart home setups.
Is Ring Intercom Video compatible with all building intercoms?
No. Ring Intercom Video requires a compatible video-enabled intercom system already installed in your building. Check compatibility at ring.com/compatibility before purchasing. If your building has an older audio-only intercom or incompatible hardware, the Ring Intercom Kit ($17.99) lets you replace it with a Ring Video Doorbell model instead.
Can you use Ring Intercom Video without a Ring doorbell?
Yes. Ring Intercom Video works independently to control building access and see visitors at the main intercom. However, pairing it with other Ring devices like Video Doorbells or cameras unlocks Device Linking features such as motion-triggered recording and smart home automation.
How long does installation take?
Installation typically takes 15-20 minutes for most users, involving removal of the existing intercom faceplate, mounting the Ring Intercom device, and replacing the cover. Ring recommends professional installation if you are uncomfortable with basic electrical connections or your building’s intercom uses unfamiliar fastening methods.
Ring Intercom Video solves a genuine problem for apartment dwellers: smart home security without landlord conflicts. For renters stuck with aging building intercoms, this update finally delivers the visibility and control that video doorbells provide to homeowners. The introductory £70 price in the UK makes it an accessible entry point, though US availability remains a question mark.
Where to Buy
90 Amazon customer reviews | £109.99 | £124.98 | £150.97
Edited by the All Things Geek team.
Source: T3
