Swarovski’s AX Visio has certainly been a hot topic amongst birders since their recent (Feb 2024) release. So what is all the hype? It incorporates a 10X32 binocular, a camera and bird identification (AI recognition) software – the world’s first ‘smart’ binocular. 20 programming languages were used and 475,000 lines of code were written for the AX Visio.
Identifying birds
Look at any bird, press a button, and the AX Visio is equipped to identify species in the viewfinder. This is done by Merlin Bird ID – covering over 9,000 species worldwide – and built-in GPS, so it knows your location. Obviously it depends on the view and image obtained but it was remarkable how many species it can identify correctly, especially as you use the device more.
I found it easy to use in the field, working well with larger birds and clearer images. If a bird is more hidden in vegetation, rather distant or backlit, an immediate field ID was harder. You can still however observe the bird’s features the traditional way and grab a record shot to work on the ID later via the Merlin app linked to the Visio. It must also be said that if you are glassing through the AX Visio, you are looking through binoculars, and not onto a digital screen. There are however visual aids and symbol overlays.
Take photos and videos
The AX Visio captures still photos (13 megapixel) and videos of whatever you’re looking at. This is stored (32GB available) and can be downloaded onto your smart phone via a dedicated (Swarovski Optik Outdoor) app. Settings can also be controlled through the app and there is also a Live View function.
Mark location
The AX Visio can also mark the location of a bird. The binoculars can then be handed to a friend and directional arrows guide the second user to the bird’s location. No more vague descriptions for a tricky-to-locate bird.
Other apps besides birds
The AX Visio’s capabilities will just improve. Swarovski is allowing third party app developers to write custom natural history apps. There is also a Mammal ID function – albeit only for Europe and North America currently but more regions will no doubt be added. Imagine the possibilities for butterfly and dragonfly ID too?
Future software updates
The bird identification feature of the AX Visio had its limitations at times as mentioned. Some of these could be dealt with over time via software updates that should improve the in-device ID of birds. New functionalities from Swarovski are also to be expected.
Build and ergonomics
Quality of the glass is tremendous, with a good field-of-view. It is a bit bulky (owing to rechargeable 3,000 mAh battery and electronics) but still fits the hand pretty well. The AX Visio has three buttons on the upperside and a mode-selection wheel in front of the focussing wheel. The shutter and control buttons are on the right side so one needs to focus with the left fingers. This may be an adjustment for some birders who focus with their right fingers. The buttons are pretty intuitive too (shutter button raised and different to the others). The camera module is housed between the two binocular barrels.
Will it change the way we bird?
The cost of the AX Visio will put it out of reach for many, and others have commented that it will take the challenge out of birding. I rather see it as a tool that can aid one’s birding, knowledge of bird calls, or even where to start looking for certain bird species.
A binocular with built-in camera and bird ID feature certainly has a number of advantages for those new to birdwatching. Grabbing a record shot to substantiate ID, or visiting a region with birds you are totally unfamiliar with, is great. Experienced birders at the top of their game can ID a bird on a brief glimpse or call – how a bird flies or on the habitat. To replicate that with AI will no doubt still take some time still and many more lines of code.
The AX Visio’s pioneering technology into smart birding will not doubt evolve in coming years, hopefully at a lower price point. (Suggested Retail Price R110,000). Martin Benadie
