At Consumer Electronics Show 2022 on Tuesday, Nextbase announced a cloud-connected smart dash cam called the Nextbase iQ. Dash cams are typically bland and uninspiring devices, but some, like Nextbase, are trying to change that by infusing smart features into their products. The new offering claims to be one of the most advanced devices in this category, with a wide range of smart features and additional hardware that most similar devices lack.
Nextbase is a U.K.-based company that is currently the world's largest manufacturer of dash-cams. It started more than two decades ago as a seller of in-car entertainment systems before finding its niche with dash-cams several years later. The company says its products are available in dozens of countries around the world, including the U.K. and the U.S., as well as a host of other European markets.
In a press release announcing the Nextbase iQ, the company claimed that the device would offer all the features users can expect from a smart home monitoring system, although it's meant for the car. The iQ comes with a triple-camera system that can record both inside and outside the vehicle. While the front view can be recorded in glorious 4K, the rear and in-cabin footage will be recorded at a respectable 1440p. Nextbase also claimed that the camera has artificial intelligence-powered features, including 'Spatial Awareness' that will record incidents even when the driver is away from the car. Another AI-based feature is called 'Roadwatch AI,' which will monitor other road users and warn drivers about possible collisions with other vehicles or pedestrians. It will also have a 'Driver Aware' feature to alert distracted or drowsy drivers.
Premium AI-Based Features
One of the most notable features of the iQ is Witness Mode, a voice-activated, instant recording feature that allows users to record and upload footage to the cloud automatically. Users can also configure the software to automatically share that footage with a designated contact, which could come in handy in case of an unfortunate incident. The camera will also enable users to receive real-time alerts and access incident videos through the iQ app.
Nextbase further claims that the device will have a fast and reliable cloud connection, as well as "ultra-high-accuracy GPS satellite positioning" for efficient vehicle tracking. In addition, the device comes with the Ambarella AI-capable chipset that the company says will enable it to roll out updates with new features and technologies. Overall, the Nextbase iQ promises to be an exciting gadget once it's available for purchase. Talking about availability, Nextbase didn't announce details about when it will be launched, but TechRadar suggests that it will happen in Autumn 2022. The pricing will likely be announced at launch time as well.
Source: Nextbase/BusinessWire, TechRadar