Solvia 8x32, the AI-powered binoculars that see, identify and take photographs

With this product, the Chinese company MatataXplore has raised over $300,000 in a month through a Kickstarter campaign, with backers in more than 80 countries. What is it? It’s a pair of binoculars, the Solvia 8x32, which transforms into a fully-fledged digital exploration tool, combining 8x32 optics with ED glass and BaK4 prisms, an HD camera, a built-in 2.8-inch display and an artificial intelligence model developed in the company’s Shenzhen laboratories. It is capable of identifying over 10,000 bird species offline in less than two seconds, with a claimed accuracy (under optimal conditions) of up to 98 per cent, whilst the MatataXplore-Optics app extends recognition to plants, other animals and places of interest. Photos and videos appear directly on the screen and can be transferred via Wi-Fi; the battery life is guaranteed for up to 12 hours. Three versions will be available: prices range from $399 to $549. (G.Rus)