Qualcomm brings advanced AI and machine learning capabilities to smart cameras

Qualcomm brings advanced AI and machine learning capabilities to smart cameras

Qualcomm has announced the addition of the Qualcomm QCS610 and Qualcomm QCS410 system-on-chips (SoCs) to the Qualcomm Vision Intelligence Platform. According to a press release, both elements are designed to bring premium camera technology, including powerful artificial intelligence and machine learning features formerly only available to high end devices, into mid- tier camera segments. The innovation comes at a time when intelligence at the wireless edge and robust connectivity are increasingly becoming the bar to overcome for smart camera applications in smart cities, commercial and enterprise, homes, and vehicles, Qualcomm said.

The QCS610 and QCS410 have been designed to deliver a one-stop shop for customers building camera-based devices. Built with the upgraded Qualcomm Kryo CPU, Qualcomm Adreno GPU and Qualcomm Hexagon DSP, the new platform includes the Qualcomm Artificial Intelligence (AI) Engine that is set to deliver up to 50 percent improved AI performance than the previous generation. In fact, the latest generation was rearchitected to deliver improved efficiencies and faster inferencing in the DSP, resulting in more computing power and AI inferencing at the device level. Keeping the key workloads on the device can provide privacy and significantly reduce latency for the best user experience.

The Qualcomm Vision Intelligence Platform supports Linux and Android OS for a variety of IoT segments, including camera, Edge AI box, retail and robotics. Further enhanced capabilities include support for Microsoft Azure Machine Learning and Azure services. Dual ISPs support Video capture, Integrated audio, GNSS, hardware-based security and Qualcomm Technologies’ multiple connectivity options including 5G/4G, WiFi, Bluetooth and Ethernet make this one of the most robust and advanced set of features available for non-premium smart cameras in a single SoC.

The QCS610 and QCS410 are sampling now. To accelerate development and further differentiate their products, manufacturers can rely on a comprehensive ecosystem of technology providers that compliment or extend the value of the Qualcomm Vision Intelligence Platform series. Qualcomm Technologies is collaborating with original device manufacturers (ODMs), independent software vendors (ISVs), authorized design centers and distributors for the reference platforms and Development Kits.

“We look forward to continuing our long-standing strategic collaboration with Qualcomm Technologies”, said Alex Hsia, Founder & CEO of Altek, a leading original design manufacturer for edge AI cameras, commenting the innovation. “The new QCS610 and QCS410 SoC brings our Edge Vision AI series including AI camera and AI box to the next level by offering new experiences to our customers with extremely efficient AI inferencing across different edge vision AI applications.” A Qualcomm QCS610-based camera reference design hardware development kit from Altek is expected to be available in Q3 2020.

The Qualcomm Vision Intelligence Platform is a platform for the Internet of Things that fully utilizes the emerging power of AI/machine learning, edge intelligence, and the cloud. Drawing upon Qualcomm Technologies’ mobile heritage, the Qualcomm Vision Intelligence Platform is purpose-built for the unique requirements of the IoT and optimized in application- specific configurations for IP cameras, dash cams, 360/VR cameras, video conferencing, and more.