Option to Disable Arming if Sensor is Open

I want to add my thoughts about what should be done and why it's needed. Simplisafe, is there any update on this feature?

Software Updates Needed to Prevent Accidental Arming with Open Sensors

While I commend SimpliSafe for its hardware innovations, there exist glaring and critical design flaws in the app and keypad that demand immediate attention. The current software design compromises both safety and user experience, falling short of the standards set by other industry leaders like ADT.

Key Issues:

1. App System Status: It's concerning that the app doesn't automatically update the system status upon being opened, forcing users to manually refresh.
2. Arming with Open Sensor: Alarmingly, it's far too easy to arm the system when a sensor is open. This critical flaw in the app and keypad could have serious security implications.
3. Keypad Feedback: The lack of distinct auditory feedback from the keypad during an arming attempt with an open sensor is an oversight that can't be overlooked.

Feature Recommendations:

1. Automatic System Status Refresh: An immediate implementation of an automatic system status refresh every time the app is opened is non-negotiable.
2. Improved Open Sensor Notifications: For user safety, both the app and keypad should proactively and clearly warn about open sensors, requesting user confirmation before arming.
3. Enhanced Keypad Auditory Signals: A clear and distinct series of beeps or sounds from the keypad when detecting an open sensor is imperative.

Details

Having recently transitioned from ADT to SimpliSafe, there are several commendable features of the new system I'd like to highlight. The cost-effectiveness is immediately apparent, with substantial savings over its competitors. The modular nature of its components makes installation a breeze, and the flexibility to opt for a mere $10/month for video recording as opposed to the $60/month is both economical and practical. I especially appreciate the feature where a video is automatically taken during any system activity and the privacy cover for the camera is a thoughtful addition.

Yet, with my two decades of software engineering experience, certain design choices in the app and keypad strike me as not just perplexing but a pronounced vulnerability for the system. The problem is there are software oversights that may inadvertently leave sensors open, creating a gateway for burglars to break in. This poses tangible risks of theft and, alarmingly, potential personal harm.

The most glaring issue with the app is how easy it is to arm the system even when a sensor is open. The app does not automatically update the system status upon being opened. Instead, it prompts users to manually refresh by pulling down. This design decision is a misstep. When a user chooses to set the system to 'home' or 'away' mode, the app should automatically check and clearly warn if any sensor is open, providing an option to proceed if the user wishes to arm it anyway. This was how the ADT app operated, and rightly so – it's a more user-friendly and safer approach.

Similarly, the keypad exhibits shortcomings. When attempting to arm with an open sensor, it should unequivocally signal this with a distinct beep or series of beeps to prevent arming. Currently, with the keypad located near our garage door, it's all too easy to exit, arm the system, and remain oblivious to any open sensors, especially since the base unit's spoken warnings are delayed and its location is too distant to be audibly effective.

What set the ADT system apart was its immediate feedback on open windows. With it, we never had to double-check each window before leaving. In contrast, SimpliSafe places an unnecessary burden on users to ensure all windows are closed. This can, and should, be rectified with the simple improvements I've described.

@suntereo​ Thank you for sharing your feedback, I'll pass this along to our dev team. The feature to be able to arm your system with an Entry Sensor open was intentional, and the Base Station does give a warning that a sensor is open. However, we have submitted the request for an in-app notification that an Entry Sensor is open when arming the system. If that feature is brought into development, we will update the Community. 

The Keypad's countdown beeps can sound quite soft, but the Entry Countdown and Exit Countdown will also sound through our Wireless Siren. At 105dB it's much louder, and it can be placed anywhere in your home.