DIY home security systems are proving popular with homeowners because they do not require an expert to install, and Amazon's new Alexa Guard Plus turns an Echo smart speaker into a security device, listening for signs of trouble, contact emergency services if necessary.

While not as comprehensive as the best DIY home security systems, Alexa Guard Plus represents Amazon's first step into a new service area. Also, at $50 per year, it is the cheapest professional monitoring service available.

Alexa Guard Plus is essentially an enhanced version of the existing Alexa Guard. When activated, it uses the Alexa speaker's microphone to listen for sounds of glass breaking or smoke detectors and alerts you if it hears anything. It can also randomly turn smart lights on and off in your absence to make it appear as if someone is there.

Alexa Guard Plus has a few additional features: it can listen for more sounds, such as footsteps, doors opening and closing, and a baby crying, as well as sirens and dog sounds from the Alexa speaker. It can also work with other smart home devices, such as Ring, Blink, Arlo, and August cameras, to trigger events.

In the unlikely event that you need help when you are at home, you can say "Alexa, call for help" and it will connect you to emergency services through Amazon's emergency call center.

Alexa Guard Plus is the least expensive professional monitoring service at $4.99 per month or $50 per year; if you have Ring Protect Plus or Abode Pro ($200 per year), Alexa Guard Plus is available at no additional charge. available at no additional charge. According to Amazon, Alexa Guard Plus is also available for Scout Alarm, Resideo, A3 Smart Home, and Wyze, but terms of these contracts have not been announced.

However, there are two things to consider: the Alexa Guard Plus does not currently have as many features and accessories as other DIY home security systems. For example, there is no keypad, water leak sensor, or security fob, which are fairly standard in these kits. However, Amazon is trying to lure homeowners who already have Alexa devices with very attractive subscriptions.

Also, Alexa Guard Plus does not actively call emergency services in the event of a fire or other incident.

Alexa Guard Plus will be available later this year.