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Ulticam IQ V2: Matter-Certified AI Camera with Gemini Integration and PoE

9to5Mac •
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Xthings introduces the Ulticam IQ V2, the first Matter-certified AI security camera, merging Power over Ethernet (PoE) with Google Gemini AI for smarter home security. The camera delivers 4K UHD video with a 160-degree field of view, capturing driveways or yards in detail. Its hybrid AI system processes basic events locally (person, vehicle, package detection) while offloading contextual analysis and natural language searches to Gemini in the cloud. Users can query footage with commands like, “Show me UPS deliveries yesterday,” streamlining video review. AES-256 encryption and 7-day free cloud storage (no subscription) address privacy and accessibility concerns.

Matter 1.5 certification enables integration with Apple Home, though the Home app lacks native camera support currently. Xthings acknowledges this gap but notes Apple’s historical role in advancing Matter, suggesting iOS 27 (expected at WWDC 2026) may enable full compatibility. Meanwhile, ONVIF support allows immediate use with Home Assistant or NVRs, ensuring flexibility. The camera’s always-on video avoids reliance on motion sensors, capturing key frames continuously for reliability.

Technical specs include PoE connectivity for power and data via Ethernet, Wi-Fi 2.4GHz as backup, and microSD card slots (up to 512GB) for local storage. The lifetime rolling 7-day cloud plan eliminates recurring fees, a rarity in the industry. While awaiting Apple’s Matter updates, the IQ V2 remains a versatile option for smart home ecosystems.

For now, the Ulticam IQ V2 bridges gaps in AI-driven security, offering context-aware alerts and seamless Matter integration potential. Its blend of local processing, cloud smarts, and open standards positions it as a forward-thinking choice for tech-savvy users.