ArcSoft claims to make internet-connected cameras more useful as a means of home security as it presents Simplicam at CES 2014, a wifi camera equipped with facial recognition.

Unlike other wifi camera systems requiring one to manually check through footage, Simplicam features motion, sound and facial detection software supposedly able to notify users of potential intruders.

Danish home automation vendor Poly-Control claims it is the first to "take an affordable smart lock product out of the prototype stage and into the consumer market" with the Danalock key-free door lock solution.

As well as a relatively low  ($99) price tag the Danalock differs by being easy to install-- it does not replace the existing deadbolt but fits into the inside face of the door, allowing use of existing, physical keys.

“Installing Danalock takes a screwdriver (included in the box), 10 minutes, and a download of our app to a smartphone," the company claims.

The Danalock comes in circular or square variants with wireless connectivity coming through either Z-Wave, Bluetooth or both. The Z-Wave version allows remote operation over the internet and integration with home automation systems, while the Bluetooth version connects only to mobile devices via app. Power comes through standard batteries, so locks stay on in case of power outage.

The latest Lorex security webcam does not need a PC or tablet to operate effectively-- the LWX3451X Wireless Home Monitor ships with an own handheld 4.3-inch display handling feed viewing duties.

Setup also requires no PC, since an included Wifi Cradle takes care of connections with home wireless networks. Once the Cradle connects to a wifi network, customers just need to dock the monitor to view video either remotely or locally.

Smartphone and tablet owners can replace the monitor with an iOS and Android Lorex Care app.

The iDoorCam has a proposition for customers not wanting to get up to answer calls at their doors-- a webcam-equipped doorbell allowing one to check who is at the door on an iDevice via wifi.

Inside the rugged circular package are a camera (day and night vision), speaker, microphone and motion sensor. It is easy to install on walls (just like any regular doorbell), and users only need to connect it to wifi network once it gets power.

Kwikset and UniKey Technologies team up and reveal the Kevo-- a deadbolt lock customers can unlock without need for keys or numeric passcodes via the magic of Bluetooth and a smartphone app.

The Kevo uses Bluetooth LE, and turns mobile devices (only iOS but Android and BlackBerry options are in the works) into an electronic key (eKey). The smartphone can stay in the user's pockets while communicating with the deadbolt, and the Kevo is "smart" enough to open up with a simple touch.

Customers lacking a smartphone can use a Blueotooth fob included in the package.

Video is set to account for 50% of a global door phone market worth around $1.8 billion by 2017 IHS reports, with WW shipments to grow with a 7.5% CAGR over the next 5 years.

A number of advances push the transition from audio to video door phones, including growing integration with building automation, transition toward "hands off" indoor units, larger 7-inch screens and rising network system and megapixel camera adoption.

“The transition from audio to video door phones is occurring in all regions around the world, and is being driven by many factors,” the analyst says. “Ultimately, this change is due to a reduction in the price of video door phones, and the consumer’s perception of increased security via better identification of those who are trying to gain access.”