Raspberry Pi launches camera module for vision-based AI applications
Raspberry Pi, the company that sells tiny, cheap, single-board computers, is releasing an add-on that is going to open up several use cases
Raspberry Pi, the company that sells tiny, cheap, single-board computers, is releasing an add-on that is going to open up several use cases — and yes, because it’s 2024, there’s an AI angle. Called the Raspberry Pi AI Camera, this image sensor comes with on-board AI processing and is going to cost $70.
The Raspberry Pi has recently unveiled its new AI camera module, a compact and affordable camera module that combines a Sony image sensor with a Raspberry Pi RP2040 microcontroller chip. This innovative module is designed to be used with Raspberry Pi computers and is compatible with aLL models, making it a versatile tool for a wide range of applications.
The AI Camera module is an extension of the existing Camera Module 3, which features a simple 12-megapixel image sensor from Sony mounted on a small add-on board. However, the new module is slightly larger due to the structure of the optical sensor, but it is still compact and easy to use. One of the key features of the AI Camera module is that it comes pre-loaded with the MobileNet-SSD model, an object detection model that can run in real-time. This means that the camera can be used for a variety of tasks such as detecting empty parking spots, tracking traffic flows, or performing basic automated quality assurance in industrial environments.
The AI Camera module is specifically designed for use in industrial and embedded applications, where it can be used to capture images and process them through common neural network models. The module is inexpensive and efficient, making it a cost-effective solution for companies that need to integrate computer vision capabilities into their products. This is particularly appealing to companies that need to produce computers and modules at scale, as Raspberry Pi is a popular choice due to its reliable sourcing and minimal production delays.
In fact, Raspberry Pi has reported that the industrial and embedded segment represents 72% of its sales, and the AI Camera module is likely to be used in a similar proportion. This is a testament to the company's commitment to providing reliable and affordable products to its customers. Furthermore, Raspberry Pi has promised to keep the AI Camera module in production until at least January 2028, demonstrating its dedication to supporting its customers and ensuring a steady supply of this innovative product.
Overall, the AI Camera module is an exciting development in the world of computer vision and machine learning, offering a powerful and affordable solution for companies looking to integrate AI capabilities into their products. With its compact design, real-time object detection capabilities, and commitment to production, the AI Camera module is poised to revolutionize the way companies approach computer vision and automation.