Many customers are aware of and maybe have already used Blink, a security camera and video doorbell company. Many might wonder whether Blink is controlled by Amazon given Amazon's purchase of other smart home companies like Ring. Let us now go into Blink's history and connection to Amazon.

The History of Blink

Two guys called Peter Besen and Michael Harris started Blink in 2014. Their goal was to create simply operated affordable consumer home security system cameras. Initially, Blink sold indoor and outdoor battery-operated security cameras using non-rechargeable AA batteries that would last for up to two years. Since the cameras did not have to be hooked for electricity, this simplified installation.

Blink added its first video doorbell camera to its consumer range in 2016. Since it utilized lithium batteries for its power, this also came with the same concept of an installation requiring only cables. Blink also began visiting big chain shops during this period. Blink cameras—which were originally only accessible online—were now sold at big stores like Best Buy, Home Depot, and Walmart.

Amazon's Acquisition of Blink

Blink was acquired by Amazon in 2017 to enter the Smart Home Automation market category of the company. Specific financial information was not released to the public, but it was estimated that the acquisition was above $100 million. It added Blink to Amazon’s list of smart home devices alongside Ring and Alexa.

Is Blink owned by Amazon now? Yes. To date, Blink is affiliated with Amazon as a subsidiary company. Some of Blink’s activities have been assimilated into Amazon after the buyout was made.

In what ways does the Partnership benefit both the Brands?

The acquisition by Amazon has likely fast-forwarded Blink’s growth and distribution opportunities. Selling under Amazon offers immense market access to place Blink products within as many consumer homes as possible. Another benefit of Amazon’s financial resources is the ability to bring more frequent devices from Blink.

First of all, owning Blink allows Amazon to have another smart home brand that is focused on security. This aligns well with Amazon Ring’s portfolio which is mainly focused on video doorbells and exterior home security cameras. Blink also provides indoor cameras that can be used separately from Ring. This means that both brands can offer security camera options that cater to the complete range of consumer requirements.

It also benefits Amazon by having more control over the promotion and sale of Blink through its avenues. Blink cameras are now easily noticeable on Amazon’s website and are marketed directly to Echo/Alexa users. This brand unification makes it easier for consumers to embrace a complete smart home system from Amazon.

Has Ownership of Blink Affected by Amazon?

Interestingly, for the most part, Blink appears to have remained relatively unaffected by Amazon’s acquisition and continues to operate much like it did before. As a rule, most Blink hardware and software updates resemble previous generations in terms of features and performance. The cameras continue to be wire-free options for both indoor and outdoor use that are both affordable and easy to install.

However, there are a few changes and improvements that likely come as a result of Amazon ownership: However, there are a few changes and improvements that likely come as a result of Amazon ownership:

• Better integration with Alexa – With Alexa, you can now watch real-time feeds from Blink cameras on Echo Show and Fire tablets. There is also a feature of Alexa voice service that allows for voice control of the camera without the use of hands.

• Subscription cloud plans – Blink’s new subscription cloud storage plans Sync and Sync 2 offer options for storing recordings in the cloud instead of only locally.

• General updates – The Blink app and the firmware of the cameras should be updated more frequently with fixes and improvements, primarily due to the constant development resources provided by Amazon.

These changes are intended to enhance functionality for owners in terms of tighter integration with other Amazon smart home products and services.

What About Consumers?

In total, a majority of industry experts see Amazon’s acquisition of Blink as a positive move. What Blink lost when it was acquired by Amazon is the fact that when running on its own, it had so much more capability of growing at a rapid pace. This assists in placing Blink cameras – which improve at a fast rate – in the hands of as many users as possible.

It also helps to give a sense of assuredness for the brand going forward and strong backing from its owner Amazon. Amazon has shown that they are willing to invest in smart home technology so I do not think that Blink will be cut off anytime soon by Amazon.

For customers, Blink cameras are now available on sale on the mammoth Amazon online store with Ring, and other Alexa devices. Users can also have the Blink app single sign-on with the Amazon Alexa app. Plus take advantage of subscription plans for cloud storage without having to depend on local SD cards in the cameras.

While some of the small brands that have been acquired end up diluting their key competencies, up to this point, it appears that Blink has been preserving the competence. Now with amplification from Amazon resources to support those endeavours. Look forward to a plethora of innovations from Blink cameras in the future since this partnership is advantageous to both parties and the consumer in general.

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