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Nextbase, the UK-based global leader in dash cam technology, has announced the launch of the Nextbase iQ, dubbed the world’s first truly smart connected dash cam.
Dash cams are not normally something to get overly excited about. They all typically have similar features, recording footage, measuring speed, and often plotting your route on a map with GPS.
The Nextbase iQ is different, it aims to revolutionise the dash cam market, integrating the sort of smart features we have seen on home surveillance devices such as smart video doorbells.
Connectivity and App Enable Real-Time Access Anywhere
The Nextbase iQ has microSD storage similar to most dash cams but it sets itself apart by leveraging LTE connectivity to provide real-time access to the dash cam footage and notifications from anywhere at anytime through the Nextbase iQ app. This allows users unprecedented control and awareness of their vehicle’s surroundings, whether parked or on the move. The app’s key features include Live View to see a live stream from the dash cam, the ability to view stored video history in the cloud, and real-time alerts if the vehicle detects a threat like an intruder or knock when parked. The LTE connectivity and app elevates the humble dash cam into a sophisticated connected car device.
Unlike many dash cams that use USB for power, the Nextbase iQ uses the ODB connection for power. It does not extract any data from your car other than the battery information. The ODB connection then allows the Nextbase iQ to work even when your car is switched off, and it is a much more convenient way of getting 24/7 power than the hardware option that many competing products require.
AI-Powered Technology Delivers Enhanced Safety and Security
While dash cams have traditionally been used to provide video evidence in the event of an accident, the Nextbase iQ brings cutting-edge AI and smart home technology to deliver proactive safety and security capabilities. The flagship feature is Smart Sense Parking, which uses a combination of spatial awareness sensors and AI to actively monitor the vehicle’s surroundings when parked. It can detect potential threats like approaching objects or intruders and notify the owner in real-time with video clips. Other safety features include Emergency SOS to alert emergency services after a serious collision and Roadwatch AI to warn drivers of hazards like speeding cars, pedestrians or cyclists when driving.
Additional World-First Innovations
Nextbase has packed the iQ with additional world-first innovations for the dash cam category. The Driving/Security Mode automatically detects the vehicle’s status and switches between driving and parking modes. Witness Mode is voice activated to instantly save recordings to the cloud and share with emergency contacts when requested. Remote Alarm allows users to sound the vehicle’s alarm remotely via the app.
Evergreen Device Gets Better Over Time
Nextbase designed the iQ as an ‘evergreen’ product that continuously improves over time. The company will push out over-the-air software updates to add new capabilities, meaning the dash cam gets better throughout ownership. Upcoming features include:
- Guardian Mode: which works remotely and notifies the user when their vehicle is used by a friend or family member, or left with a valet, mechanic, or other driver. Personalised restrictions and updates can be set, including speed, location boundaries, and heavy braking.
- Voice Control: will allow you to ask the Nextbase iQ to play music,place calls, queue up an audiobook, read the news, check the weather, control smart home devices, get directions, find parking and more – all while you keep your hands on the wheel and eyes on the road. Voice commands will be processed locally on the device (not shared), and video is stored encrypted on the cloud.
- Roadwatch AI: tracks the speeds and trajectories of other vehicles around you, as well as pedestrians, cyclists, and e-scooters.
Nextbase iQ Camera Specification
The Nextbase iQ isn’t just about smart features; it aims to have the best camera performance on the market.
Nextbase uses Omnivision sensors – the 4K device uses a 1/1.8″ Colour CMOS 8‑Megapixel (3840 x 2160) Image Sensor with PureCel Technology. In comparison, the Vantrue Element 2 I previously reviewed used a Sony Starvis IMX335 which is a 5MP 1/2.8″ sensor. The sensor size is just as important as the resolution. The larger the sensor, the more light the camera captures and the better the performance in low light and sub-optimal conditions.
The front camera has a 140-degree field of view, which was chosen over a wider FoV as it allows you to capture more detail for the traffic in front of you, including number plates.
The cabin camera is built into the main unit, faces into the inside of the car, and has a 180-degree field of view. This then allows the camera to capture footage of anything approaching the driver and passenger winders.
| Product | Name | Front Camera | Cabin Camera | Rear Camera |
| iQ 1K | 1080p | 1080p | 1080p | 1440p |
| iQ 2K | 1440p | 1440p | 1440p | 1440p |
| iQ 4K | 4K | 1440p | 1440p | 1440p |
Nextbase iQ Models and Pricing
The Nextbase iQ comes in three models depending on video resolution – 1K, 2K and 4K.
Prices start at £349 for the 1K model, £399 for 2K and £449 for the range-topping 4K version.
The rear camera is then £149.
Nextbase also offers three subscription packages for additional capabilities like extended cloud storage and Emergency SOS. The free Solo plan provides basic features, while Protect (£6.99/month or £69.99/year) and Protect Plus (£9.99/month or £99.99/year) add more advanced functionality.
Subscription Features
Solo – Free
- Nextbase iQ app
- Voice control
- Real-time text notifications
Protect – £6.99 per month or £69.99 annually
- Nextbase iQ app
- Voice Control
- Real-time image notifications
- Live View (60 minutes)
- Smart Sense Parking
- Witness mode
- *RoadWatch AI
- *Guardian Mode
- Remote Alarm
- Cloud Storage – 30 days
Protect Plus – £9.99 per month or £99.99 annually
- Nextbase iQ app
- Voice Control
- Real-time image notifications
- Live View (120 minutes)
- Live View Look Back
- Smart Sense Parking
- Witness mode
- *RoadWatch AI
- *Guardian Mode
- Remote Alarm
- Cloud Storage – 180 days
- *Multiple User Accounts
- Emergency SOS
- Automated incident back-up
* Coming soon, further details below
Overall
The Nextbase iQ ushers in a new connected era for dash cams. With its innovative mix of connectivity, smart AI features and proactive security capabilities, the Nextbase iQ brings premium technology to your vehicle.
While this is undeniably an expensive product, especially when you factor in the subscription fee, it offers more features than any device on the market. The features outclass anything that might be built into most modern cars so this allows the Nextbase iQ to appeal to a wide range of buyers.
It may be a little overkill for my 10-year old Vauxhall Corsa, but anyone driving a new and/or mid-range car would benefit from the security and safety features this offers. I’d expect it will also be a popular product for anyone that drives for a living.
I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.
As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.
In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.
I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.
Looking forward to the full review of this, especially the smart sense parking. Would be good to see how the notifications work with and without a subscription. Also how easy it is to see number plates
Of other vehicles.