The Winees L1 2K solar-powered security camera provides a surveillance solution for homes and offices, enriched with advanced AI capabilities. It is compatible with both the AiDot and Google Home apps.
During my experience of setting up and testing the system, I encountered several challenges with the AiDot app, which is designed exclusively for the Winees ecosystem. The app serves as a control hub for AiDot-compatible smart devices, including the Winees camera and a broad array of lighting, security, and other related products.
Despite its compatibility with a variety of smart products from brands like Linkind, OREiN, Winees, Hyderson, GoGonova, and Syvio, the AiDot app’s ambition to be a universal solution leads to complexities when one intends to use the Winees security camera exclusively.
The setup process was puzzling and the app’s functionality was incomplete. However, transitioning to the Google Home app provided a workaround, resolving several connectivity and usability issues.
By contrast, Google Home automatically connected the Winees camera and managed some of the features that AiDot struggled with. Nonetheless, using the Google Home app only partially resolves the connectivity issues.
The standout features of the Winees camera are its video capabilities which deliver vivid, clear images, even in low light conditions. However, the setup process, absence of clear instructions, and lack of feature explanations are areas that could be improved.
The camera saves surveillance data in the cloud for long-term access via any web browser. Alternatively, you can avoid the subscription fee and rely on the camera’s internal storage and the app to view recorded alerts and notifications.
Setup Challenges
Usually, configuring wireless indoor and outdoor cameras is a relatively simple process, not unlike pairing other devices with laptops or smartphones.
Normally, I don’t need to consult detailed guides to get such devices up and running. However, in this case, searching for more detailed information — even from the company’s help center — became necessary when connectivity issues emerged.
The camera includes a quick start guide that covers basic information about the camera and the accompanying solar panel. A separate cable is also included for indoor or outdoor connection to an electrical outlet.
One diagram showed how to position and secure the solar panel, while another illustrated the location of the button, lens, and sensors on the camera. However, detailed explanations of features and troubleshooting connectivity issues were not readily available.
Even more frustrating was the lack of information about navigating the app and understanding default settings and user options. The AiDot section of the app contained a scanty FAQ screen in the Help Center tab, which offered a few hints but not much else.
The separate websites for Winees and AiDot provided little additional insight or detailed user manuals or videos. Tech support contact information was available within the AiDot app’s help center tab, but the assistance mostly consisted of promises of help during future business hours.
Solo Troubleshooting
Upon first connecting the charging cable to the camera, it prompted me to push the power button for three seconds and then follow the app’s instructions. It seemed as though the AI component would automate the setup process.
The initial steps initiated the Wi-Fi connection process. But when connectivity failed, the only suggestion was to try again.
Eventually, I managed to connect the camera to Wi-Fi, and the 15-second recorded motion detection clips played back. However, the surveillance mode was unsuccessful.
The app display consistently showed a message that the live stream view was attempting to connect. The only suggestion in the FAQ section of the Help Center was to move the device closer to the router.
This recommendation seemed strange since the outdoor placement was far from the router in the house. Even when I tried setting up the camera just a few feet from the router, the live stream still failed to connect.
I then found a section of the AiDot app that offered an option to reboot the camera. However, this didn’t resolve the connectivity problem either.
Within the app settings, I discovered an option to connect the camera to Google Home. I activated this option and installed the Google Home app on my smartphone.
The Home app had a section for adding linked devices and provided a lengthy list of compatible devices. Unfortunately, neither AiDot nor Winees was listed.
Mostly through trial and error, I selected an option that seemed to be a generic device which successfully connected the Winees camera to my Home network and added it to my other smart app installations.
The Home app managed to connect the Winees live stream view. Meanwhile, the AiDot app continued to search for the live stream connection and only played back recorded clips.
Camera Highlights
The solar security camera features a 2K 3MP optical lens and 6x digital zoom with a 130° diagonal viewing angle, providing detailed images.
The Quad High-Definition (QHD) video resolution offers a crystal-clear view. QHD is 2560×1440 pixels at a 16×9 aspect ratio, which is four times the resolution of standard 720p HD.
The L1 camera has a high-performance 5200mAh battery built-in.With the solar panel, the camera can be powered and charged simultaneously, allowing the camera to function without a power cord.
The camera is also weather-resistant, making it suitable for outdoor use. It has an IP65 rating, ensuring it can withstand dust, rain, and snow.
The camera features motion detection capabilities. When motion is detected, the camera sends an alert to your phone and records a 15-second video clip in the cloud for your review.
The Winees L1 2K camera also comes with two-way audio, allowing you to listen and speak to visitors through the built-in microphone and speaker while viewing the video live stream.
The camera also features night vision up to 33 feet (10 meters), which provides clear video even in total darkness.
The built-in AI capabilities of the camera include the ability to distinguish between humans and animals, reducing false alarms. The AI can also recognize familiar faces and alert you if an unrecognized person is detected.
Despite the challenges I experienced during the setup process, the Winees L1 2K security camera’s features and capabilities make it a viable option for homes and offices.
However, the lack of comprehensive setup instructions and troubleshooting guides can pose a challenge. The AiDot app’s limitations and connectivity issues may also be a deterrent for some users.
In conclusion, the Winees L1 2K solar-powered security camera is a capable surveillance tool with impressive video quality and advanced AI features. Still, the setup process and app compatibility issues may require users to exert some effort and patience.
