17/06/2019
Customers can now spy on their pets with the Comcast pet filter
Comcast has released a pet filter for their camera that uses AI to filter through hours of footage to only show clips with owner’s pets.
Spying on your pet has just become easier. Comcast has released a new Artificial Intelligence-powered pet filter feature to its Xfinity Camera that allows customers to check in on their pets throughout the day.
The filter is an addition to their security camera and uses AI to quickly sort through hours of footage to identify only clips featuring owners pets. Customers are able to see their pets at home through an app on their phones.
The product came in response to Americans’ increasing obsession with watching their pets on security cameras while away from home, officials said. On June 6, Comcast published a survey that determined just how much pet owners enjoy spying on their furry friends.
The Comcast-funded survey, conducted by Wakefield Research, surveyed cat and dog owners who used a camera to monitor their pets.
Those surveyed loved the four-legged distraction and admitted to taking a peek on their pet at work, parties, and even while out on dates. Some even said they enjoyed checking in on their pets more than going on social media.
“We developed this feature to help our customers quickly filter motion-triggered events by people, vehicles, or pets because we wanted to bring the video clips that matter most even faster. Smart home technology can become overwhelming. Our product is very usable and takes the work out of smart hub,” said Dennis Mathew, vice president and general manager of Comcast’s Xfinity Home.
Results also found that 93% of participants said checking in on their pet is one of the best parts of their day. Almost half of the participants (42%) said they checked in on their pets four or more times a day.
“It has been really amazing to see our customers connected in this way when using the security camera. Customers are given a peace of mind,” said Matthew.
Comcast has released several other AI-powered products in the past such as a voice-operated remote. All products are made to enhance customers experiences, officials said.
Jill Rappaport, award-winning animal advocate and owner of six rescue dogs said, “My camera gives me a great sense of comfort and relief. I feel the extra eye on them can be a lifesaver and it gives me needed insurance when I can check in on them from anywhere, at any time. It is not only entertaining to watch my pets but the camera also has the ability to prevent disasters.”
Customers have the option for continuous video recording. This option provides access to video for seven to 10 days. The continuous video recording service uses AI technology to zoom in on the activity and create a thumbnail image of the pet. User can then spend less time searching through hours of footage and just watch the clips with their pet.
Rappaport said she likes the enhanced safety the camera provides.
“Pets should be treated like a child and you would never leave a child unattended. Dogs can fall asleep outside in the hot sun and become overheated. The camera can even be set up outside to prevent an incident like that happening,” she said.
