Firmware Updates for Next-Gen Cameras
The new software release enhances AI detection in Next-Gen Cameras, reducing false positives and improving event accuracy. The update rolls out automatically on October 13 for SafetyCam Plus and Pro Cameras.
Key Improvements in This Release:
1. Phone Usage Detection:
- Reduction in false phone-usage events - The AI can now differentiate between actions such as scratching a beard, biting nails, or resting a hand on the face, which previously triggered false “phone-usage” alerts. These false alerts will be eliminated with the new software version.
- Improved accuracy for true texting events - Previously, some genuine phone-texting incidents were occasionally missed. The upgraded AI now detects and records actual texting events with greater precision, ensuring they are captured accurately.
2. Seat Belt Detection:
- Major improvement in accuracy - The AI now accurately detects seatbelt use even when the seatbelt color closely matches the driver’s clothing or when the belt is worn in slightly unconventional positions.
- This ensures more reliable and consistent seatbelt detection across different lighting and clothing conditions, resulting in a significant reduction in false seatbelt-related events.
3. Braking and Acceleration Events:
- Extended video duration from 10 to 14 seconds per event.
- This ensures comprehensive before-and-after footage, providing clear and complete evidence of harsh-braking or rapid-acceleration incidents.
- The extended duration helps fleets analyze driver behavior more effectively and make informed safety or coaching decisions.
4. Rolling Stop Event:
- Footage duration for this event has been optimized.
- Drivers and fleet managers now get sufficient pre- and post-event footage, allowing a clearer view of what occurred before and after the stop sign.
- This results in greatly improved context and accuracy for event evaluation.
5. Audio Availability for Requested Videos:
- Previously, audio was not available for requested videos even when the audio recording was enabled.
- This issue has been fixed, and audio will now be available for all requested videos where audio recording is turned on.
Software Rollout Details:
- Rollout Date - October 13
- Applies To - Next-Gen Cameras – SafetyCam Plus and SafetyCam Pro
- Version - 20250926_1531
- Update Mode - The cameras will automatically update to the latest software version once they establish connection.
How to Check the Update:
Navigate to Admin > Devices > SafetyCam New > FW Version column to verify your device version.
Note for Accurate AI Detection:
To ensure accurate AI detection and reliable event recording, both road-facing and driver-facing cameras must be properly aligned and unobstructed.
1. Proper Alignment:
- Road-Facing Camera - Adjust the camera so the road is centered within the frame, neither too high nor too low. Use the red line in the image below as a focus guide.
- Driver-Facing Camera - Position the in-cab lens to capture at least the driver’s head and shoulders clearly within the frame.
- Priority - Road-facing visibility takes precedence over the driver-facing view to ensure accurate event detection. Adjust both cameras to maintain this balance.
Note: Misalignment can prevent both road-facing and driver-facing events from being triggered effectively. |
2. Free from Obstructions - Avoid windshield stickers, hanging objects, or tinted films that can block or distort the camera’s view.
3. Clean and Clear Lens - Keep lenses free of dust, smudges, or moisture buildup to maintain recording clarity.
4. Regular Checks After Maintenance - Re-verify camera alignment whenever the device is serviced, remounted, or the vehicle’s windshield is replaced.
These checks help maintain high event detection accuracy and optimal AI performance under all driving conditions.
PDF copy of the Release Notes: Firmware Updates for Next-Gen Cameras - October 2025