If there was one thing we took away from our recent review of Synology's DiskStation DS411+ NAS, it was that the management interface was universally excellent. Being both capable and very easy to administer, the software was a genuine pleasure to use.
Now the company is hoping to build on that with the release of DiskStation Manager 3.0 beta, which is available for download today.
The software - which is available for the DiskStation x07 series onwards - brings with it a whole host of changes. The headline feature is multi-tasking within the web-based interface. This will allow multiple apps to be run on the NAS from within a single browser, enabling users to switch quickly between them. The AJAX interface also allows for dynamic loading to save having to refresh the current page.
Another major new feature is support for Android with the DS photo+, DS audio and DS cam apps. Synology already supports Apple's iPhone, but now users of Google's mobile OS can access their DiskStations on the go as well. In addition to all of the features of the iOS version, the Android app can remotely control music playing on the NAS through USB speakers.
On top of these features, the new software supports a customisable interface, Windows ACL for privilege management and the EXT4 file system. Also included is Surveillance Station 5, bringing enhanced support for IP surveillance cameras.
To cap all of this off, Synology are giving away a DiskStation DS110+ to the three users who provide the most valuable feedback on the beta.
For those interested, DiskStation Manager 3.0 beta can be downloaded now from Synology's website, where you'll also find a full list of changes and supported devices. If you aren't quite ready to take the plunge, there's a live demo available too.
