No subscription is required to use the camera, but you do need a Nano SIM card with an active cellular data plan if you want to use the 4G cellular network feature. The camera supports inserting a Nano SIM card for cellular connectivity, which requires a data plan from a mobile network provider. Using the camera without a SIM card is possible via Wi-Fi, but cellular network use depends on having a SIM card and active data service. Subscription to Imou Protect cloud storage is optional and not mandatory for basic camera operation.