ADT Blu: Security Giant's DIY Fails Spectacularly

ADT's new self-installation security system, ADT Blu, has launched with significant flaws. Testing revealed a multitude of issues, primarily centered around the ADT Plus app, which proved buggy and difficult to navigate. Users experienced login problems and error messages, hindering basic operations like adjusting settings.

The setup process for ADT Blu devices, particularly cameras and doorbells, was found to be nearly impossible. The ADT Plus app lacks essential functions for adding new cameras, and some devices do not include QR codes for initial scanning. Attempts to resolve these setup failures through ADT's customer support, including AI chatbots and human representatives, were frustrating and ultimately unsuccessful.

Beyond the technical problems, ADT Blu's subscription model presents another challenge. The mandatory $15 monthly monitoring plan is more expensive than comparable plans from competitors like SimpliSafe. Even the alternative $10 Video Connect plan for cameras is less competitive. These pricing issues, combined with the system's unreliability, make ADT Blu difficult to recommend.

In summary, ADT Blu appears to have been released prematurely, with widespread software glitches and inadequate customer support. While future updates may address these problems, the current iteration struggles against the versatility and affordability of other DIY security systems available on the market. ADT's brand recognition may not be enough to overcome these significant drawbacks.