Product goal
Mission and Role
In 2023, Synology released its first in-house cameras, BC500 and TC500. To support these devices, the app introduced mobile-friendly camera activation and enhanced options for image and surveillance notification settings. My role in this project was to build upon the existing app framework, designing new camera setup flows and advanced monitoring features while keeping the overall experience consistent with the current app design language.
Setup Cameras
Feature
The camera setup flow includes both manual and automatic detection modes. In manual mode, users choose a camera type and the app scans the local network for available devices. In automatic detection mode, when the app detects a nearby camera while on the device list screen, a bottom sheet appears to let users add it instantly. If network discovery fails, users can still pair the camera easily by scanning a QR code.
Manually Select Camera Type to Add
Users can choose between a wired or wireless camera to manually search for devices within the network.
Search Loading State
It takes around 3–5 seconds to complete the search. An animated visual cue is shown to let users know that the process is still running.
Auto-Detected Cameras
Use a bottom sheet to notify users that a camera has been detected and can be set up right away.
Unable to connect via Bluetooth
If the phone or camera fails to connect properly, an empty state page is displayed, offering an alternative option to add the device by scanning a QR code.
QR Code Pairing
The app generates a QR code that the camera can scan to receive the correct connection details and complete pairing automatically.
Advanced Settings
Feature
Synology’s own cameras support intelligent video detection features, all configurable directly through the mobile app. Users can set detailed detection targets, including human and vehicle detection, intrusion detection, motion detection, sound detection, and tampering detection. Each detection type can be individually enabled, with customizable detection areas and sensitivity levels on the video feed. When an event is triggered, the app sends instant push notifications to the user’s phone.
Five Smart Detection Modes
Users can configure parameters such as detection targets, intrusion direction, and sensitivity thresholds. Once set, the app sends real-time push notifications to the user’s phone whenever an event is detected.
Instant Search Event
Feature
To help users search past events more efficiently, an Instant Search button was added below the event list. When tapped, it opens a video search mode where users can specify the target type — person, vehicle, or motion — and draw a selection area to narrow down the search within recorded footage.
Instant Search Feature Guide
When users enter the page for the first time, a dialog window appears with illustrated explanations that introduce the feature and guide them through how to use it.
Instant Search Display Location
Displayed as a floating button at the bottom of the page.
Instant Search Click Behavior
After tapping, users are first prompted to select the type of event they want to search for.
Enter Search Mode
Users can tap the “X” on the floating button at the bottom of the screen to exit search mode.
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