Synology BeeStation Plus Adds Private Home Monitoring

Synology announced on April 1, 2026, a new privacy-focused home monitoring experience for its BeeStation Plus. This update transforms the device from a personal storage solution into a digital hub capable of managing both files and home security surveillance.

The new functionality is powered by the BeeCamera mobile app, which enables users to monitor homes and workspaces using Synology cameras. The system is designed to operate without cloud dependency or recurring subscription fees, emphasizing data sovereignty and user control.

AI-Driven Monitoring and Hardware Integration

The solution integrates on-camera AI detection to identify specific events, including people, pets, vehicles and intrusion events. This edge-based processing allows for more accurate alerts and a streamlined experience for live viewing and event review.

To utilize these features, the BeeCamera mobile app requires BeeStation Plus to be running BeeStation OS 1.5 or later. Users can integrate up to four cameras within a single location, making the system suitable for residential use or small business environments.

Through the BeeCamera app, users can customize several operational parameters to refine their monitoring experience:

• AI detection alerts for specific categories such as vehicles, pets, people, and intrusion events.
• The configuration of recording schedules and specific detection zones to minimize unnecessary notifications.
• Retention settings that are adjusted based on the available storage capacity of the BeeStation Plus.

Data Management and Event Review

All detected events are consolidated in one location, allowing users to filter by event type to quickly review activity throughout the day. This unified interface is intended to simplify the process of auditing security footage.

The system also includes a feature to save key moments to Collections. This ensures that important footage for reference or memorable clips are not overwritten by the system’s routine retention policies.

BeeStation Plus is built to be a digital hub for home and for small teams

Yi Ma, senior product manager of BeeStation

According to Yi Ma, the addition of video monitoring allows BeeStation to offer a way to manage security alongside photos and files, ensuring that all data remains private and under the user’s direct control.

Positioning as a Cloud Alternative

BeeStation Plus is positioned as a plug-and-play alternative for users seeking to avoid cloud-based storage for their files and surveillance data. By utilizing local storage on the BeeStation Plus, the system provides remote access to files and monitoring feeds without the need for external cloud servers.

This approach targets users in home and micro-business settings who prioritize privacy and wish to avoid the recurring costs typically associated with smart home monitoring services.