Hi everyone! I’m Patrick (YouTube @pattetechpattetech).
Today I am releasing the first public version of my Edge Driver for UniFi Protect.
My goal with this project was not just to create another “video viewer,” but to unlock real automation potential with UniFi cameras.
🚀 Key Features
This driver leverages the local UniFi API via WebSocket to deliver:
Motion Detection: Standard motion sensor capability for basic automation triggers.
Granular AI Detection: Separate sensors for Person, Vehicle, and Animal.
Occupancy Timeout (Debounce): Configurable in each camera’s settings. You can set a custom delay to keep the presence sensor “active” even after detection stops. Perfect for keeping lights on while you are sitting still!
Privacy Mode: A dedicated switch that disables both the Recording and the Microphone of the camera.
Sound Detector: Currently generic, but I plan to separate the specific detection types available in Protect in the future.
Status LED Control: Turn the camera’s status light on/off via automations.
⚙️ How It Works
Local Execution: Requires a SmartThings Hub.
Architecture: The driver creates a “Controller” (Parent) device where you enter the IP/Username/Password of your UniFi OS (Local user recommended).
It automatically discovers all cameras as child devices.
Note: ONVIF cameras added to Protect are not displayed because they lack the required native sensors.
⚠️ Important Notes
Focus on Sensors: This driver is designed for Automation Triggers. Video streaming is not the main focus due to current SmartThings platform limitations regarding local streams.
Requirements: UDM-Pro, UDM-SE, UNVR, or CloudKey Gen2+ running UniFi Protect.
Tested Cameras:
G5 Flex
G5 Dome
G5 Dome Ultra
G5 PTZ (Privacy Mode not currently working on this model)
🔗 Channel Invitation Link: LINK
This is my first driver.
I hope you enjoy it!
