The difference is in how data is processed and stored.
There are two types of AI: Cloud AI and Edge AI. But what's the difference - and does it matter?
| Wyze AI (Cloud) | Edge AI |
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How does Wyze AI work?
With Wyze AI, features like Person and Pet Detection involve sending the data from your device to the cloud and remote servers for processing, before sending it back to the device. Cloud-based AI allows for massive amounts of data to be stored and processed. Being in the cloud, these AI models are trained easily and can stay up-to-date with security updates and technological advancements seamlessly.
Wyze AI Features
With a Wyze Cam powered by Wyze AI*, you get Person Detection, as well as Pet, Package, Vehicle Detection, and more. You also get Friendly Faces, which can identify not just that a person was detected, but can learn their face and tell you who they are.
Disadvantages: Latency, requires a strong internet connection, no availability during an outage.
* To use Wyze AI, you must have a subscription to Cam Plus or Cam Unlimited.
How does Edge AI work?
With Edge AI*, all of the "smarts" live on the device. Data is stored and processed directly on the device itself, rather than sent to our servers and back to the device. Because of this, Edge-based AI allows for really fast processing and more control of your data.
Edge AI Features
With a Wyze Cam v3 Pro powered by Edge AI, you get Person Detection, as well as our included Motion and Sound detection, at no cost. On Wyze Cam v4 with a paid subscription, you get Person Detection and Fast Notifications.
On Wyze Cam Floodlight Pro, you get Person and Vehicle Detection at no cost, With a paid subscription, you also get Motion Warning, a Motion-activated light, Fast Notifications, and thumbnails of Events, and more.
Disadvantages: Limited storage capacity, limited functions, limited updates, slightly decreased accuracy.
* Edge AI is only available on Wyze Cam v3 Pro, Wyze Cam v4, and Wyze Cam Floodlight Pro, and is powered by an on-board chip. A subscription to Cam Plus is required on Wyze Cam v4 and Wyze Cam Floodlight Pro to access the full feature list of Edge AI.
Why isn't Edge AI free on all devices, for all detections?
Edge AI takes a lot of manpower and research to implement on each compatible device. While no longer a recurring cost to produce, the upfront cost of developing a device with Edge AI is high. And once developed and launched, Edge-powered devices still require ongoing maintenance, accuracy improvement, and optimization. Making Edge AI free on all devices, even if possible, would increase costs tremendously for our users - no bueno.
Which is better - Wyze AI or Edge AI?
Although some of our devices come with built-in features thanks to Edge AI, our choice is clear to get the most out of your Wyze Cam. With its robust Smart detection features and the latest security updates on nearly every Wyze Cam, Wyze AI is better in almost every setting.
Related article: Is Edge AI Person Detection the same as Cam Plus?
Resources: NVIDIA, Telefonica Tech, IBM.