New update makes it even better
I love this monitor. Its relatively (see imperfection 1 below) easy to set up using 2 devices on the same wifi network or via the cloud with an account. You dont need an account if you only intend to use wifi. The recent update added the apps ability to auto detect the network and the app now automatically switches between wifi and cellular networks. This allows the monitor to stay on when you use certain apps that used to make it disconnect.
The night light on max is *very* bright, but adjustable from the child and parent units, so thats actually a major plus. Ive often put it up on max to quickly check on my child and then turn it off and it lights up the whole room! Also very useful in place of an iPhone flashlight for those times when you need something brighter. The low setting is nearly-off, and the gradient is very responsive and gradual, so you can achieve your ideal lighting environment. I like the starry night screen too because its a nightlight, but it doesnt disturb my daughter even when the iPad is very close. Obviously, you can adjust your devices brightness, but even on max it doesnt bother her. Now that shes 2 years old (Ive been using this since she was about 4-6 months), she knows when she sees the stars that mommy is on the other end and can talk back to her, so she puts her face up to the iPad/computer and just speaks "mom, where are you? Coming, mom?" Its so sweet.
Multiple parent and children monitors can function simultaneously on the same device app. I havent used the multi child function, but I have used the multi parent one, and thats very convenient. I also like how you get an alert on the parent device when the child device is low on battery.
Ive sought customer service assistance with a question about a feature awhile ago and they were nice, prompt, knowledgeable and helpful. They followed up several times. This is a very professional company.
Areas of imperfection
1. I couldnt find a way to change my password and/or close my account, so I had to set up a new account. Not a big deal, but Im divorcing, so I would have liked to have had a way to ensure no screw ups on my end. Luckily, that hasnt been an issue.
2. When you pair devices for the first time you need to accept the new parent device on the child device. I understand the need for this, but its inconvenient to have to sneak passed a sleeping if you forget to do this. Its only the first time, and only happens when you use a new device.
3. When noise is detected on the child unit a set of lights flash...this is going to be a poor description...they appear as bars, ranging from green-->yellow-->red. #s and colors of bars indicate how loud the noise is. Anyway, I wish I could have my device vibrate in addition to having the visual signal because Im not always staring at the app screen, but I would be able to hear my phone vibrate even if I forget to turn the volume up. I thought this feature had been added, so if I find out that this, or any of the other issues have been addressed, I will update this review.
Christine K about
Cloud Baby Monitor, v4.0.2