Xfinity WiFi Motion
Detect motion in your home using devices you already have
Role
UX lead
Project
New mobile feature
Duration
~2 years
The Challenge
Many users find traditional home security programs and packages prohibitively expensive, often questioning the value they receive for the cost. Our goal was to address this issue by introducing an innovative, no-commitment security system. This feature utilizes existing WiFi-connected devices that users already own—such as Bluetooth speakers and smart thermostats—to detect motion within their homes.
Research findings
Our research initiative commenced with small-scale studies to gauge user interest in our proposed feature. We discovered that a significant majority of users expressed enthusiasm for a security offering like ours. The appeal was bolstered by the attractiveness of a free-to-use model, which added to the allure of this innovative security feature.
Employee trials
Following three rounds of initial research studies, we embarked on a focused two-week sprint to workshop our initial design concepts for the free security feature. Several months later, these designs were implemented and tested during employee trials. Over a span of six months, we gathered valuable feedback from Comcast employees who voluntarily participated in our beta program. This feedback loop enabled us to iteratively refine and enhance the feature, addressing various aspects of this novel security offering.
Original designs
Our existing flow launched utilizing employee trials was more condensed but gave less information to the user. This left them with a higher drop rate, around 78% of our users would leave the flow without successfully activating WiFi Motion. In addition to that, we had gone through a significant rebranding as a mobile app during Q4 2023, which meant we would need to update the visual educational elements.
Onboarding
Initially, the WiFi Motion onboarding featured two entry points directing users to an educational explainer page. Upon choosing to activate the feature, users were guided through a concise six-step onboarding flow. As this was a new feature, we encountered legal concerns during activation, which were later addressed in an enhanced onboarding journey.
Live View
The WiFi motion live view encapsulates the essence of our advanced motion detection feature in a visually stunning experience. In periods of no movement, we generate subtle radar-like pings to illustrate our detection process within your home. When movement is detected, the visualization intensifies, resembling a wave building up to a crescendo before subsiding as motion ceases. This unique approach utilizes WiFi signals without the need for cameras, offering a captivating visual representation that engages users and encourages them to observe the motion rather than divert their attention.
Refinement
In Q1 2024, I assumed the role of lead designer for the project with a focus on enhancing the sensitivity detection feature. Initially intended to detect only people within the home, WiFi Motion evolved significantly during employee trials and collaboration with engineering. We successfully integrated pet detection, a pivotal enhancement that enriched the user experience by distinguishing between human and animal movements within the household.
Sensitivity Levels
The goal was to enhance user education on our WiFi motion feature's newest capabilities. Users were introduced to sensitivity settings only on their third app session post-activation. This phased approach ensured users were fully acclimated to the core feature before introducing additional complexity. The educational flow was designed to be clear and intuitive, focusing on explaining pet and motion sensitivity settings and guiding users to adjust these settings as needed.
Pet Sensitivity
Our pet sensitivity detection feature addresses the needs of users who wish to monitor their pets' movements while they are away. Users can easily toggle this feature on or off based on their preference, ensuring notifications are optimized according to their specific needs. This capability enhances user control and personalization, providing peace of mind regarding their pets' well-being.
Motion Sensitivity
Our motion sensitivity detection feature offers users three adjustable levels—high, medium, and low—to tailor WiFi motion detection to their specific household dynamics. This customization ensures users receive notifications that align with the desired sensitivity level, enhancing the relevance and utility of detection alerts.
Enhanced Experience
Transitioning into Q2 2024, we prioritized refining the onboarding experience for the sensitivity levels feature. Feedback from our employee trials prompted a thorough reevaluation and redesign of the onboarding flow, content, and visuals. Key insights included concerns such as confusion about product functionality, device compatibility, customization options, and privacy implications.
Over a meticulous three-month period, our team diligently addressed these concerns. We incorporated additional educational elements, streamlined the onboarding flow for simplicity and clarity, and ensured compliance with internal legal requirements. The result was a streamlined, educational onboarding experience that guides users through our pioneering technology with confidence.
User Pain Points
Device compatibility
Customization options
Confusion about product functionality
Privacy implications
Discovery Phase
During the discovery phase, I thoroughly assessed new screens, updates needed, and potential removals within our workflow. I prioritized key considerations and proposed solutions, including educational interventions and phased task breakdowns. Subsequently, we segmented the refinement of our onboarding flow into two phases: MVP, concentrating on core screens and branding elements, and Post-MVP, targeting screens essential for partner rollout.
MVP Phase
During this phase, I prioritized refining key screens, considering branding elements, and integrating educational moments to enhance user understanding of WiFi motion technology and its customer benefits.
Post-MVP Phase
In this phase, I identified and prepared screens for syndication to our partner brands. Our close collaboration with these brands ensures that our product launches align seamlessly with their branding requirements and standards.
End-to-end flow
Building upon the existing onboarding process, I implemented a three-entry point approach to enhance clarity and comprehensiveness for users adopting our WiFi motion feature. This expanded onboarding journey included detailed legal content, educational tips, and a guided learning journey at the conclusion. By integrating these elements, we successfully crafted a cohesive and informative onboarding experience that ensures users are fully prepared to utilize WiFi motion effectively.
Zoomed in section illustrating educational content and device selection screens
Impact
In July 2024, we proudly introduced our latest free-to-use security feature to our users: WiFi Motion. This innovative technology marks a significant advancement in home security, leveraging existing WiFi-connected devices to detect both human and pet movements within the home environment.
Since launch, WiFi Motion has achieved exceptional results with 10% upgrade conversions among 2.1M monthly users, generating substantial revenue growth while enhancing user security capabilities.
WiFi Motion empowers users with real-time insights, offering peace of mind by distinguishing between various types of movements and activities. Our commitment to user-centric design, informed by extensive research and feedback, ensures a seamless integration and intuitive user experience that drives both user satisfaction and business value.