Limited time recordings in free version
Response from developer
Hi Richard. The app prominently features my email address for user feedback at feedback@watchful.cam, and I encourage you to send me a message there so that I can understand your use case better. Motion detection is on the roadmap to be added soon. As for storing videos forever, please note that there are some complex considerations involved, such as the possibility that users' iCloud storage would fill up and the app would become unusable for them. It's a delicate balance, and I'm doing my best, but interacting with users directly (rather than just reading negative reviews) is very important to me. If this response has been helpful to you, please consider changing your rating.
Barebones
Response from developer
Hi Ryan, I'll be happy to address the points you mentioned. There are some technical limitations related to iCloud that make it less feasible to use intervals below 10 seconds. However, if you need a shorter interval, you can achieve the same result by setting the app to record videos. Are there any other settings that you find are missing? Your media is accessible to you in ~/Library/Group Containers/group.co.superabundant.Watchful, regardless of whether or not you have a subscription. You can also export individual videos and photos directly from the app. I've spent the past two years working full time on Watchful. It has been extremely hard work to overcome the technical challenges that such an app entails. I truly care about making a great app, and negative reviews have a major impact on my livelihood. I'll be happy to clear up any other issues by email at support@watchful.cam. If you find this response helpful, please consider changing your rating.
Ghost
Pricey
Response from developer
Watchful's product page on the App Store prominently displays the subscription options. Watchful is free with basic features, with the option to subscribe to unlock premium features. I'm an independent developer, and subscriptions make it possible for people to support my work on this app, which is my full-time job. If this explanation has been helpful, please consider changing your rating, since negative reviews impact my ability to earn a living from my work.
Cool
A well-made app
Watchful-Great Features plus Ease of Use
Watchful turns your iPhone, iPad, iMac, etc. into a security camera with images you can access from any other Apple device. A great feature set lets you record in real time, as photos, video and even a time lapse option.
You can easily configure the resolution and recording interval to your liking. Images can be stored on the recording device or in iCloud, and you can choose how long those images are stored. Also, using iCloud storage enables you to erase images with just a few clicks from any of your devices, from anywhere.
With no pets and being fully retired, we now travel often and sometimes for extended periods of time. My 70 year old eyes appreciate checking email and watching videos on the iPad, so I take the ipad along on trips and use my iMac as the Watchful recording device at home.
I optimize the iMac for Watchful recording with the following settings: In the “Displays” section of System Settings, clicking the “Advanced” tab brings up an “Energy” option, “Prevent automatic sleeping when display is off.” I click this option On. When leaving for a trip I launch Watchful and start recording. Then I choose “Lock Screen” from the Apple menu before going out the door. After a few seconds the screen goes black, with Watchful recording in the background.
These settings enable Watchful to provide continuous security to our home and deny access to the computer while preserving energy. An intruder caught by the camera would not even know they were being recorded, with these images stored off site in iCloud. Upon returning, my personal password unlocks the screen.
As a “mature” gentleman, ease of use is as important to me as having robust features in any app. Watchful knocks it out of the park for both considerations, and I have to believe the developer paid close attention to the actual end user experience in designing the app. I look forward to exploring other apps that this developer puts out in the future.
So Far So Good
Response from developer
Thanks for your review! We recently launched a live video feature, and we have more new features on our roadmap for the coming months. We'd love to hear more about your experience and any feedback you have at feedback@watchful.cam.
Trying to link iPad with iPhone
Response from developer
Thanks for your review! We recently added a live video feature to the app. If you get a chance to try it out, let us know what you think at feedback@watchful.cam.
