Ring Drone Cam launches next January

Households in the United States can now pre-order a flying security camera that patrols homes when owners are away. Ring confirmed the release of the Drone Cam on a Tuesday in New York City, setting the launch date for January 27, 2027. The device will cost $249.99 and is designed to replace multiple stationary cameras with a single mobile unit.

The Drone Cam operates using artificial intelligence to map interior spaces and follow pre-programmed routes. It activates in response to triggers from other Ring sensors, such as motion detectors, open doors, or water leaks. Once activated, the drone flies to specific locations to record 2K video with a 148-degree field of view. Users can also schedule automated patrols or send the drone manually through the Ring app.

Privacy features are built into the hardware and software design. The camera lens is physically shuttered when the device is docked. Ring introduced a new encryption system called TAKE, which stands for Throw Away the Key. This system rotates encryption keys every five minutes and deletes cloud copies of footage after 24 hours. The company states this limits Amazon's access to data while retaining features like smart alerts and video search.

The current model weighs 165 grams and is one-quarter the size of the prototype shown in 2023. Battery life limits usage to five to eight minutes per charge. Recharging takes eight minutes for every minute of flight, meaning a five-minute patrol requires about 40 minutes to recharge. Ring founder Jamie Siminoff noted that development has continued since 2016, with the team restarting the process a year ago to build a simpler drone that relies on cloud processing for intelligence.

The Drone Cam is strictly for indoor use and requires an internet connection to function. If the Wi-Fi signal is lost, the drone can only land. It is part of a new Ring Robotics line that includes the Ring Rover Cam, a $999.99 security robot for businesses. The Rover is built on Amazon's Astro platform and begins shipping on December 16, 2026. Both devices require a Ring Protect plan for video storage.

Ring is currently seeking FCC certification for the drone. Siminoff stated the device is assembled in the United States and complies with current regulations on foreign-made drones. The company demonstrated the drone navigating a living room layout with minimal wobble, though it did not show the device handling stairs or unexpected obstacles like pets in public demos.

The Drone Cam will work with Amazon's upcoming Alexa Home Map to understand home layouts and sensor locations. This integration allows the drone to identify where specific security devices are placed. The launch marks the first consumer product in Ring's robotics division, aiming to provide comprehensive home coverage without extensive hardware installation.