Ring Video Streaming
Elevating Video Streaming at Ring for Seamless User Experience
Working at Ring, a leading smart home security company known for its video doorbells and security cameras, I took on the exciting challenge of redesigning the app’s video player to enhance performance and user experience.
“Whether it was voice or message controls, lights, sirens, or the movement of the camera, users expected a flawless experience from the service—and we delivered.”
The core functionality of Ring’s cameras—live view feeds and recorded footage review—is essential for our users. As a leader in the smart home security space, Ring constantly releases new hardware with innovative features. Our video streaming needed to keep pace, working seamlessly on any device and providing top-notch experiences for the newest gadgets.
During this period, we doubled the number of video devices in our lineup.
Creating a system where multiple devices from various generations can coexist with the same UI is no easy task. Through multiple iterations and careful consideration, each new feature was added in time for the release of new devices. During this period, we doubled the number of video devices in our lineup, including unique ones like a flying camera. This systematic approach ensured that our interface remained consistent and user-friendly across all devices.
During my time at Ring, I led several redesigns of the Live View and Timeline video experiences. This involved balancing user feedback, supporting new features, and aligning with the visions of multiple stakeholders. Integrating new functions systematically was crucial. Whether it was voice or message controls, lights, sirens, or the movement of the camera, users expected a flawless experience from the service—and we delivered.
One significant enhancement was introducing vertical video. We found that most action on video happens in a vertical slice of the horizontal frame. While the streaming defaults to a full-screen horizontal view, we discovered that users rarely rotated their devices to view videos. To address this, we added the ability to double-tap and zoom in on the action, making it easier for users to focus on important details without rotating their devices. This feature quickly became the default setting for a quarter of our users.
Performance and reliability of video streaming are crucial. I investigated how UX architecture impacts both actual and perceived performance.
“After numerous tests, I redesigned the architecture of opening a Live View, speeding up the experience by 22% and reducing possible failures by 7.5% globally”
Managing multiple legacy devices posed its own challenges. I revamped the classic video player, retaining the familiar experience for long-time users while incorporating new and exciting features. This ensured that even users with older devices enjoyed improved functionality.
Additionally, since Ring belongs to Amazon, it was crucial that our video streaming worked seamlessly with Fire TV and screen-enabled Alexa devices. This integration allowed users to conveniently review who was at their door from any Amazon device, enhancing the overall smart home experience.
