Bosch Eyes outdoor camera switches to radar to detect movement with precision

Bosch has been offering a second version of its Eyes outdoor surveillance camera since this year. In its first version, it particularly impressed us with the dual use enabled by its integrated lighting, but also its image quality, even if it did not receive as good a rating as the 360 ​​camera for indoor use from the same manufacturer — this one has also been renewed, but has lost the 360 ​​vision.

We therefore expect at least as much from the Bosch Eyes II, and even more since several improvements have been announced. The opposite would have been disappointing, because it should be noted that no less than seven years separate the two generations. That’s not nothing!

Smarter, more precise detection, but definition that doesn’t move

Bosch’s new outdoor camera first features new motion detection technology. Called DualRadar, it consists of two radars that combine their fields of vision for 180° surveillance and promise not only to detect movements, but also to measure how far away and in what direction they are for precise monitoring of intrusions.

Too bad, the camera is not motorized to physically follow movements. Radar technology should also make it possible to define activity zones with greater precision in order to limit alerts, as on the latest Ring cameras. Also to limit alerts, Bosch adds the now essential dose of artificial intelligence which should allow the camera to recognize human forms.

We could have expected vehicle recognition as a bonus on an exterior camera, but that’s already a step forward compared to the first generation (AI was much less widespread seven years ago). Motion tracking could also have been an interesting plus, but the Bosch Eyes II is unfortunately still not motorized and the manufacturer has not seen fit to increase the definition of the images either. Thus, the recordings are still limited to 1920 x 1080 pixels. They should at least weigh less on the micro-SD card, since a slot is still provided for local storage, in addition to free access to the cloud with a seven-day history. Bosch also promises a 3x digital zoom.

1100 lumens and over 1500 colors to choose from

A microphone and a speaker complete the camera’s equipment, which, like its predecessor, offers to illuminate the porch or driveway with its built-in lamp. This lighting also allows you to enjoy color images at night, in the absence of an infrared mode. The Bosch Eyes II integrates three lamps: an imposing one on the front and two smaller ones on the top and bottom.

Bosch announces a total brightness of 1100 lumens and a choice of more than 1500 colors for the small lamps, the largest only offering warm or cold white. Motion detection can obviously be used to automate the light, but it is also possible to program the ignition.

The new Bosch camera is available now at a recommended retail price of €359.95. Two colours are available: silver and anthracite.