**Xthings Ulticam IQ V2: The Pioneer Matter-Certified AI Surveillance Camera**
Xthings has introduced the Ulticam IQ V2, touted as the first Matter-certified AI surveillance camera. This device is equipped with state-of-the-art features including Power over Ethernet (PoE), 4K resolution, and collaboration with Google Gemini AI. This article explores the functionalities of the Ulticam IQ V2 and assesses its prospects for future software upgrades.
### Integrating Google Gemini into Your Surveillance Camera
A key feature of the Ulticam IQ V2 is its connection with Google Gemini. Conventional security cameras often inundate users with alerts. Xthings seeks to solve this challenge by merging local edge processing with cloud AI.
The camera is capable of executing fundamental recognition tasks locally, detecting individuals, packages, or vehicles. It then leverages Google Gemini in the cloud to contextualize these occurrences. Rather than sorting through numerous fragmented clips, the AI crafts succinct daily summaries, connecting related footage to narrate a clear sequence of events, such as a delivery driver arriving and departing with a package.
An especially captivating feature is the natural language search functionality. Users can effortlessly input queries like, “Show me when the UPS driver came yesterday,” and Gemini will pull the pertinent footage. If this feature operates as intended, it would greatly improve user engagement with camera archives, establishing a new benchmark for enterprise surveillance systems.
However, depending on cloud AI for video streams requires trust in the provider. Xthings assures customers that it uses AES-256 encryption and offers a complimentary rolling 7-day cloud storage plan without a subscription, making it an appealing choice.
### Matter 1.5 and Anticipation for Apple Home
The Ulticam IQ V2 is Matter-certified, compatible with Matter 1.5, which has brought camera support to the ecosystem. Nevertheless, a significant drawback exists: Apple has not yet updated the Home app to include Matter cameras. While it’s generally cautioned against acquiring hardware based on prospective software upgrades, Apple has historically been a major supporter of the Matter standard. It’s likely that camera support will be enabled in a forthcoming iOS update, particularly with WWDC 2026 on the horizon, where announcements regarding expanded Matter support are anticipated.
### Technical Specifications
– **Resolution:** 4K UHD video with HDR and a broad 160-degree field of view, able to capture an entire driveway or yard.
– **Connectivity:** Incorporates an Ethernet port for Power over Ethernet, in addition to standard 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi as a backup.
– **Continuous Video Capture:** Employs an ultra-low-power state to constantly capture key frames, eliminating the lags of traditional passive infrared sensors.
– **AI Processing:** Performs basic identification of individuals, vehicles, pets, and packages locally, while delegating complex tasks like daily summaries and natural language inquiries to Google Gemini in the cloud.
– **Storage Alternatives:** Accommodates local microSD cards up to 512 GB for redundancy and provides a lifetime rolling 7-day cloud storage plan at no monthly charge.
– **Smart Home Integration:** Certified with Matter 1.5, compatible with ONVIF, and integrates seamlessly with Amazon Alexa and Google Home.
### Conclusion
Until Apple officially rolls out Matter 1.5 support, the Ulticam IQ V2 still presents numerous fallback options. Its compatibility with standard protocols like ONVIF enables users to incorporate the video stream into local systems such as Home Assistant or a Network Video Recorder (NVR).
The Ulticam IQ V2 is available for purchase on [Amazon](https://amzn.to/47oUijL) or directly from [Ulticam](https://ulticam.com/products/iq-matter?srsltid=AfmBOopElGMF5xevSQc2YOlNLff5Tj4EweogiHnfAPyTp3yc-Hg0JSqa).