Recently, Raspberry Pi released a new camera module — the AI Camera, priced at $70. This device appears similar to a regular camera module, but it houses powerful AI processing capabilities.
The AI Camera is based on Sony's IMX500 smart vision sensor, featuring a 12.3-megapixel CMOS image sensor and the ability to perform local inference processing, meaning it no longer requires a separate accelerator or burdens the Raspberry Pi's CPU with heavy visual AI tasks.
The AI Camera supports various popular neural network models, operating with low power consumption and low latency, allowing the Raspberry Pi's processor to handle other tasks.
Key features of this AI Camera include: a 12MP Sony IMX500 smart vision sensor, supporting resolutions of 4056×3040 and 2028×1520, with manually adjustable focus and a 78-degree field of view. Additionally, the integrated RP2040 microcontroller manages neural networks and firmware to ensure the camera's efficient operation.
In terms of connectivity, the AI Camera can be connected to all Raspberry Pi models via a standard camera ribbon cable. Using Sony's AI tools, users can convert existing neural network models to run efficiently on the AI Camera or design new models to fully utilize the AI accelerator's capabilities.
This camera is compatible with all Raspberry Pi devices. The spokesperson noted that it will come with a 200mm connection cable, suitable for the Raspberry Pi 5 and Zero's "mini" interface, as well as other models' wider "standard" interface. Its price is slightly higher than non-AI camera modules, with an expected retail price of $70, plus local taxes. In comparison, the Camera Module 3 starts at $25, and the HQ Camera Module is around $50. This means that if you are only looking to take photos, the AI Camera might not be the best choice, especially considering the autofocus feature of the Camera Module 3.
However, if you are working on a project that requires image classification, the AI Camera is definitely worth considering, particularly for its ease of use. Additionally, Eben Upton, CEO of Raspberry Pi, mentioned that this device is often paired with the Raspberry Pi Zero 2W. Since its launch in June, the AI kit specifically designed for the Raspberry Pi 5 has also been very popular, and he is confident that the AI Camera will be even more so.
Key Points:
- 📸 The new AI Camera module features powerful AI processing capabilities, supporting image classification.
- ⚙️ Strong hardware compatibility, suitable for all Raspberry Pi devices, offering different sensor modes.
- 💰 Priced at $70, it is more expensive than regular camera modules, making it ideal for users needing image classification.
