Swarovski Optik and Marc Newson Unveil AI Binoculars AX VISIO

Revealed at CES 2024, the collaboration between Swarovski Optik and designer Marc Newson introduces AX VISIO, hailed as the world’s inaugural AI-assisted binoculars. These cutting-edge optical devices blend high-performance analog long-range optics with digital intelligence, boasting the capability to effortlessly detect and identify over 9,000 birds and various wildlife species at the press of a button. Marking a pioneering leap in technology, the AI binoculars integrate Swarovski’s Swarovision analog optics and a real-time identification system, allowing autonomous species recognition through advanced technology.

In addition to their identification prowess, the binoculars’ lenses enable users to capture high-quality photos and videos of the observed wildlife. The data can be efficiently managed and shared in real-time via a connected smartphone and the dedicated SWAROVSKI OPTIK Outdoor App. Notably, the app features a Shared Discoveries function, facilitating collaboration among users by guiding them to observed objects through arrow markers on the display. The collaborative effort between Swarovski Optik and Marc Newson spanned approximately five years, culminating in the creation of AX VISIO.

World’s First AI Binoculars Featuring Swarovski Optics

At CES 2024, Marc Newson maintains the modern aesthetic and user-friendly design for the world’s premier AI binoculars developed for Swarovski Optik, named AX VISIO. The ergonomic design ensures a comfortable grip, marking the second collaboration between Marc Newson and Swarovski Optik, building upon their previous work on the CL Curio.

Newson describes AX VISIO as akin to a contemporary camera, sharing optical, electronic, and digital characteristics. This assertion is validated by the AI binoculars’ production at Swarovski Optik’s main site in Absam, Austria, showcasing a high level of vertical integration. The design seamlessly incorporates an operational and object-recognition system, featuring a Neural Processing Unit for swift processing of pertinent information during object recognition.

Andreas Gerk, Chief Technology and Operations Officer at SWAROVSKI OPTIK, underscores the commitment to sustainability, stating, “The analog components adhere to our sustainable SWAROVSKI OPTIK quality standards, while the digital features receive regular updates and enhancements through system and function updates. An open programming interface invites external providers to expand AX VISIO with new functionalities, promoting an innovative system that continuously evolves to meet users’ enhanced vision and information needs efficiently.” The AX VISIO will be available for purchase from selected retailers and online starting February 1st, 2024.