Ring is to shut down its desktop apps for Mac and PC. However, it has shifted the date it will be discontinued to 31 December 2021.

Native applications for OS X and Windows were previously expected to be ineffective from 15 October 2021, but it seems the company has extended operability to the end of this year.

You will not be able to log into the app from 1 January 2022, although those already logged in will have until "at least" 15 January.

After that date, you will have to use either a mobile app on your phone or tablet, or access your Ring Video Doorbell or cameras through a browser instead.

Some Ring devices don't work in either the Mac or PC apps already, including the Video Doorball Wired, Video Doorbell Pro 2, and Video Doorbell 4.

Those who want to track their Ring devices on a desktop or laptop computer will still be able to do so through Ring.com, with new features recently added to web version that mirror the key abilities of the native apps.

That includes the ability to live view camera feeds, check out historical recordings, even answer calls from your browser.

Ring will soon add browser notifications too, to inform you when something needs attention.

You can also manage your Ring Protect subscription and access the Control Center from the webpage after logging in.

We have to say, we're a little disappointed the dedicated desktop apps are vanishing, especially as we use the OS X daily, but this does seem a decent enough alternative.

Plus, if you have an Alexa device nearby, you can set up a routine for your Video Doorbell.