3 min read
Anti-Theft Alarm App

πŸ’‘ What Was the Idea?

The idea was to build a smart, all-in-one anti-theft solution that not only detects suspicious activity but also helps users locate their lost phones instantly using simple gestures like a clap or whistle. The vision was to create a security-focused utility that’s easy to use and packed with real-time alerts.


🧾 Client Requirements

The client requested:

  • An Android-only solution with a strong feature set
  • A modern UI with smooth animations
  • Functionality for clap detection, whistle detection, motion alerts, charger alerts, and intruder selfie
  • A delivery deadline of 10 weeks
  • Target platform: Google Play Store

πŸ—‚οΈ Documentation & Planning

The technical and functional documentation outlined:

  • UI flow and event detection logic
  • Device permission handling (camera, mic, motion sensors)
  • Offline functionality for alarm triggers
  • App structure using Flutter
    Languages & Tools: Dart, Java (for native Android services), XML for permission declarations

🎨 UI/UX Design

Designed in Figma, the interface features:

  • Minimalist design with bright alert visuals
  • Toggle switches for each protection feature
  • Real-time logs and alarm previews
  • Smooth onboarding for first-time users
    The app is designed for non-tech-savvy users as well, focusing on ease and clarity.

βš™οΈ Development

Tech Stack:

  • Flutter (Dart) for cross-platform codebase
  • Java/Kotlin for Android-native sensors (motion, audio, etc.)
  • Libraries Used:
    • permission_handler (for microphone, camera, and storage)
    • audioplayers (for alarm sounds)
    • camera (for intruder selfie)
    • sensors_plus (motion & orientation tracking)
    • battery_plus, connectivity_plus (battery and Wi-Fi monitoring)

Functional Modules Developed:

  • Clap & Whistle Detection Engine
  • Charger & Motion Alerts
  • Intruder Detection with Auto Selfie
  • Full Battery & Wi-Fi Connection Alarms
  • Pocket Detection via proximity/motion sensor logic

πŸ§ͺ Quality Assurance

Tested across 20+ devices including brands like Samsung, Xiaomi, OnePlus, and Vivo.

Key QA checks included:

  • Mic & sound detection delays
  • Background service behavior (battery-safe & Doze Mode)
  • Accurate selfie trigger on wrong password
  • Sensor responsiveness in real-time
    Resolved Bugs:
  • False clap detections
  • Alarm not working in background on Android 10+
  • Battery drain during long-term use (optimized later)

πŸ“± Publishing Platform

The app is currently live on:

  • Android (Google Play Store)
    Optimized for both low-end and flagship Android devices.

⚠️ Key Challenges

  • Detecting claps/whistles accurately in noisy environments
  • Managing background services within Android restrictions
  • Handling user privacy with intruder selfie features
  • Ensuring alarms work even when screen is off or app is killed
  • Balancing feature richness with battery optimization

⏳ Development Timeline

Total time: 10 weeks

  • Weeks 1–2: UI/UX, App Flow, Feature Lockdown
  • Weeks 3–5: Core Feature Development (detection engine, alarms)
  • Weeks 6–7: UI + Background Service Integration
  • Week 8: QA & Testing
  • Week 9: Bug Fixing
  • Week 10: Deployment & Play Store Launch

πŸ’° Estimated Cost & Server Planning

  • Server Requirements: None (offline functionality)
  • Cost Optimization: No recurring cloud/server cost
  • Total Development Cost: $600 – $750
  • App functions offline using internal sensors and phone storage
  • Optional: Firebase Analytics integration for usage tracking
  • πŸ“² Download Now on Play Store