Do I need a cloud subscription to have smart home cameras?

Many smart home cameras offer cloud subscriptions to unlock features like remote access, cloud storage, and smart notifications. However, they're not strictly necessary. Some cameras support local storage through SD cards, NAS, or direct integration with a local NVR system. Others offer on-device AI detection and alerts without cloud dependency. If you use Apple HomeKit Secure Video, local processing is used, though storage is part of your iCloud plan. We’ll help you choose the best option for your goals — whether that’s cloud convenience, local privacy, or both for redundancy.