Raspberry Pi users are always looking forward to innovations and technologies that can help improve their productivity or allow them to create exciting new projects. We’ve previously seen companies like Olimex releasing a dual-processor board with retro simulation support for the device. And now, another big company, Sony, has partnered up with Raspberry Pi to release a new AI camera module. This was first announced back in April 2024 during the Embedded World exhibition.
Since the AI camera has only been available for a day, there aren’t any projects using it yet. Many users might wonder if it’s just another camera like the Camera Module V2 and V3 or if it will genuinely enhance existing projects or inspire new ones. Based on its specifications, we believe it will definitely make a big difference.
Why it’s a big step in the right direction
The AI camera will definitely further expand the usage of the Raspberry Pi and make it easier for users to develop AI-related projects. While Raspberry Pi is already being used in different projects, such as home systems, the AI camera will help take things to the next level.
For instance, a year ago, a user on Reddit was able to create a DIY motion detection surveillance system with Camera Module V2. Some of the features of this system included motion detection, automatic email transfer of videos, and configurable motion detection sensitivity. However, the AI camera could help improve it by allowing the system to differentiate between objects like pets and packages. This could help people know if their pet has gone outside or if someone has dropped a package on their front door. It could also send out an alert if a specific face or animal has entered a room or is at the front of the door.
We’ve also seen users creating projects like robot buggies and a robot head with a moving mouth. However, the AI camera can help make robots more efficient. For instance, right now, you can build a robot buggy using Raspberry Pi and make it follow a specific line. But with the AI camera, you could potentially help the buggy see the surroundings so it can spot objects, avoid obstacles, and know where to go. For example, if a robot buggy is driving through a room, it can detect a piece of furniture and go around it.
Gardening and farming are more areas where Raspberry Pi has been used. For instance, a soil moisture sensor can be used with Raspberry Pi to measure the amount of water in the soil. This can help reduce water usage, as you’ll only water the crops when needed. Similarly, humidity sensors can help you get an idea of the amount of humidity in the crops’ environment.
Shawn Anderson from Atomic Object was able to create an automated watering system with the Raspberry Pi using such sensors. However, the AI camera can be used to further improve such projects, as it could help monitor the health of crops or keep an eye on the fields for anything that may harm them. You can place the camera at different spots on your farm or garden, and it can send out alerts if it detects anything unusual.
However, do keep in mind that creating such projects isn’t a simple task. It can take months of work to develop something like this. However, the AI camera has definitely opened up more opportunities, and enthusiasts will most likely try their best to develop creative projects.
The Raspberry Pi AI camera can be purchased for $70. To place an order, all you have to do is head over to its official product page on the Raspberry Pi website, click on “Buy AI Camera,” and select a suitable retailer. In any case, the AI camera will definitely help users create exciting new projects. We’ve already seen them experimenting with AI, such as creating a DIY AI assistant. However, one user on Reddit pointed out that the AI camera costs almost three times more than the Camera Module 3. So, fans are currently looking forward to its reviews to see what it’s capable of and if the $70 price tag is justified.
What’s the new Raspberry Pi AI camera all about?
AI was first introduced to Raspberry Pi through the Hailo-8L kit. This expanded the usage of the credit-card-sized computer and allowed hobbyists and businesses to integrate AI into their projects, like home security systems. Now, Sony has helped Raspberry Pi take a big step in the world of AI through the new camera module.
The whole purpose of the AI camera is to eliminate the need for a GPU to handle AI processing. The camera utilizes Sony’s IMX500 image sensor and Raspberry Pi’s microcontroller chip. The IMX500 image sensor can handle AI processing itself, which makes it easy to “develop edge AI solutions with just a Raspberry Pi and the AI Camera.” The camera supports up to 4056 x 3040 resolution at 10 fps and 2028 x 1520 at 40 fps, which is pretty impressive and can be useful for projects related to object detection and smart monitoring systems.
Aside from that, the AI camera has a 78.3 degree FOV with manual/mechanical adjustable focus paired with a F1.79 focal ratio. It works with all Raspberry Pi models and can be connected to the device using the standard camera connector cable. It also measures just 25x24x11.9mm, making it ideal for compact systems.
