Is Synology KILLING their BEST Applications?

Summary

Synology's DSM 7.2.2 update brings important security fixes and enhancements, but also removes key features like Video Station and support for popular media codecs (H.264, H.265, VC-1). These changes affect apps like Surveillance Station, Photos, and File Station, requiring users to convert media formats. While the update is meant to improve system efficiency, many users face reduced functionality. The video speculates that cost-cutting, particularly around codec licenses, might be behind these decisions, suggesting Synology could introduce subscription fees in the future for certain features. The overall impact raises concerns about Synology's direction.

Takeaways

• 🔄 DSM 7.2.2 has been released, nearly a year after DSM 7.2.1, and it brings bug fixes and security enhancements.
• ❌ Synology removed the Video Station application, meaning users will need to switch to alternatives like Plex, Emby, or Jellyfin.
• 🔍 H.264, H.265, and VC1 codecs are no longer supported in DSM 7.2.2, impacting media viewing in apps like Surveillance Station, Drive, Photos, and File Station.
• 📷 Surveillance Station is hit hard by this change, especially for users relying on H.265 for motion detection.
• 🛠️ Synology claims the removals were made to reduce resource usage and improve system efficiency, but the impact may vary depending on user needs.
• 🔧 Workarounds include converting media to supported formats or installing the Surveillance Video Extension Package to maintain some H.264 functionality.
• 💻 DSM 7.2.2 changes make managing features like motion detection harder, moving from central to individual device management.
• 💸 Speculation suggests Synology might be reducing licensing costs related to codecs, potentially indicating a shift toward subscription-based services.
• 🔮 There's concern that other first-party apps, like Note Station or Audio Station, could be removed in future updates to improve performance or reduce costs.
• 💡 The changes raise questions about the future of DSM's first-party apps, suggesting users may need to consider alternatives or third-party solutions down the road.

Q & A

What is DSM 7.2.2, and why is it significant?

DSM 7.2.2 is the latest update of Synology's DiskStation Manager (DSM). It's significant because it's the first major update since DSM 7.2.1, which was released almost a year ago. This update brings essential bug fixes, security enhancements, and changes to functionality.

What are the key changes in DSM 7.2.2?

The key changes include the removal of the Video Station app, dropped support for H.264, H.265, and VC-1 codecs, and updates to Synology Surveillance Station, Synology Drive, Photos, and File Station. While bug fixes and security enhancements are important, these removals impact media playback and management.

Why did Synology remove Video Station in DSM 7.2.2?

Synology removed Video Station to push users towards third-party alternatives like Plex, Emby, or Jellyfin. Synology likely wants to reduce resource usage and support for certain codecs, impacting those who used Video Station for simpler media management.

How are Synology Photos and Surveillance Station affected by the codec removal?

With the removal of H.264, H.265, and VC-1 codecs, users can no longer view certain media directly in apps like Synology Photos and Surveillance Station without converting the files. Surveillance Station users relying on H.264 for video and motion detection will need to install the Surveillance Video Extension Package to maintain functionality.

What is the impact of removing support for H.265 in Surveillance Station?

The removal of H.265 support in Surveillance Station impacts users who relied on it for motion detection and efficient storage. Without H.265, users will either need to use their cameras for motion detection or revert to H.264, which increases storage needs or reduces the days of footage they can store.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of DSM 7.2.2?

The benefits include improved security, bug fixes, and potential system performance optimizations. However, the drawbacks include loss of Video Station, reduced codec support, and the need for more manual file conversions. Some users may experience limitations in media management and NAS functionality.

Why is Synology removing features like codecs and apps in this update?

According to the release notes, Synology aims to reduce resource usage and improve system efficiency. However, speculation suggests that the decision may also be cost-related, as licensing fees for certain codecs might have been a factor.

What alternatives are available for users affected by the removal of Video Station?

For those who used Video Station, alternatives include third-party media server applications like Plex, Emby, and Jellyfin. These options provide more robust features and continue to be supported after the DSM update.

Will other Synology applications be affected in the future?

There is speculation that Synology may remove other first-party applications in the future to focus on improving system performance or reducing costs. While core apps like Synology Photos, Drive, and Hyper Backup are likely to remain, less critical apps could be discontinued.

How should users adapt to the changes introduced in DSM 7.2.2?

Users impacted by the changes should consider third-party alternatives for media management and prepare for potential further app removals. If Synology's native apps are essential, it's wise to follow updates closely and consider alternative NAS solutions if necessary.