Photo: Swarovski Optik
If you love birdwatching, you might want to check out the world’s first AI-supported binoculars. Swarovski Optik, an Austrian company, introduced the AX Visio at the CES 2024. The AX Visio is a smart device that can recognize more than 9,000 species of birds in real time, using advanced technology and high-quality optics.
The AX Visio has an integrated operating and object-recognition system and a neural processing unit that can identify birds based on their appearance and location. It also has a built-in GPS and a camera that can take photos and videos of the birds at 13-megapixel or 1080p resolution. You can wirelessly transfer the images and videos to the Swarovski Optik Outdoor app on your phone.
These binoculars are 10 x 32 with a field of view of 1,000 yards. It also has “Swarovision” technology that produces sharp and colourful images. You can also share your finds with your friends, using the “share discoveries” function that shows red arrows in the viewfinder to point out the birds.
The AX Visio is not only smart, but also stylish. It was designed by Marc Newson, an industrial designer, who gave it a sleek look with forest green barrels, a black aluminum bridge, and black eyecups. Newson was inspired by the classic models in Swarovski Optik’s Habich series, but he also added the new tech features.
The only downside of the AX Visio is its price. It costs US$4,799 (around CA$6,445), which is quite expensive for a pair of binoculars. But it does come with a rechargeable battery, an eyepiece cover, a USB charging cable, and a strap. And it can identify the wildlife for you, which is a unique feature.