Eufy Snapshot Not Working? Here's Your Fix
The snapshot feature on Eufy security cameras is incredibly useful, giving you a quick visual summary of a motion event directly in your phone's notifications. When this feature stops working, it can be both inconvenient and concerning. If you're receiving alerts without the helpful image thumbnail, you're in the right place. This guide offers professional, clear solutions to troubleshoot and fix the Eufy snapshot feature, all written in accessible British English.
Essential App Permissions and Settings
Often, the problem lies not with the camera itself, but with the settings on your smartphone or within the Eufy Security app.
1. Check Notification Permissions on Your Phone
Your mobile device needs to grant the Eufy app specific permissions to display rich notifications (alerts with images).
- For iOS (iPhone): Go to 'Settings' > 'Notifications' > 'Eufy'. Ensure that 'Allow Notifications' is on and that you have enabled 'Previews' to 'Always' or 'When Unlocked'.
- For Android: Go to 'Settings' > 'Apps' > 'Eufy' > 'Notifications'. Make sure all notification categories are enabled and that the app has permission to display over other apps if required.
2. Configure In-App Notification Settings
Within the Eufy Security app, you need to ensure that image previews are enabled for each camera.
- Open the Eufy Security app and select the camera you want to configure.
- Go to the camera's 'Settings' (the gear icon).
- Tap on 'Notifications'.
- Select the notification type you prefer (e.g., 'Most Efficient').
- Crucially, make sure the 'Include Thumbnail' option is toggled on. If this is off, you will only receive text-based alerts.
Network Connection and Camera Health
A stable connection is vital for the snapshot to be captured and sent to your phone promptly.
The Importance of a Strong Wi-Fi Signal
A weak or intermittent Wi-Fi signal can prevent the snapshot from being uploaded successfully.
- Check the Wi-Fi signal strength for your camera in the Eufy app ('Camera Settings' > 'General' > 'Wi-Fi Connection').
- If the signal is weak, consider moving your Wi-Fi router closer to your camera or Eufy HomeBase. A Wi-Fi extender can also help improve coverage.
Rebooting Your Eufy Camera and HomeBase
A simple restart can often resolve temporary software glitches that may be affecting the snapshot function.
- Reboot the Camera: If your camera is battery-powered, you can typically restart it via the app ('Settings' > 'Restart Device'). If it's wired, unplug it from the power source for 30 seconds and then plug it back in.
- Reboot the HomeBase: Unplug the power adapter from your Eufy HomeBase, wait for a minute, and then reconnect it.
Firmware and Software Updates
Running outdated software can lead to bugs and compatibility issues.
Updating the Eufy Security App
Ensure you have the latest version of the Eufy Security app installed. Visit the Apple App Store or Google Play Store to check for any available updates.
Ensuring Your Camera's Firmware is Current
Eufy regularly releases firmware updates to improve performance and fix bugs.
- In the app, navigate to your camera's settings.
- Look for a 'General' or 'About Device' section.
- Tap on 'Check for Firmware Update' and install any updates that are available. Make sure the camera has sufficient battery and a stable connection during the update process.
By carefully following these troubleshooting steps, you can resolve the most common reasons for the Eufy snapshot feature not working. Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with seeing exactly what's happening at a glance.