AI Sports Tracking Camera System // XbotGo Chameleon
Howto & Style
Introduction
The Xbot Go Chameleon is Blink Tech's latest AI sports tracking system, designed to automate the filming of various sports activities. The company previously sent the original Xbot Go sports tracking gimbal for review, but now, I’m testing its successor, the Chameleon.
Overview and First Impressions
Unlike the original gimbal, the Chameleon is specifically geared towards team sports. I ventured out to a nearby football field expecting to capture a game, but to my disappointment, there was no match taking place. I repeated this with a soccer and baseball field, only to find similar luck. Eventually, I did manage to film some action and saw the Xbot Go in action.
Features and Functionality
The Xbot Go Chameleon utilizes what Blink Tech refers to as Xbot Vision 2.0, which automatically tracks moving action in team sports without input from the user. Additionally, it offers the ability to track a specific athlete by selecting them on the screen. If you're filming yourself, you can lock or unlock yourself as the target by simply raising your hand.
The build quality of the Chameleon feels premium, although the remote control leaves something to be desired, as it still carries a toy-like feel. Fortunately, it functions well enough, especially when the camera is mounted out of reach. Users with an Apple Watch can even control the Chameleon or preview their shots in real-time.
One of the core features is the “Follow Me” mode, which allows solo filming. By holding up your hand for a few seconds, the system begins recording, and it can track you through a full 360° rotation. To stop recording, simply lift your hand again.
Sports Compatibility and Limitations
While the promotional materials suggested that it would be functional for golf, I discovered that the golf mode is still in development. Currently, the Xbot Go supports various sports including soccer, basketball, tennis, and surprisingly, broomball, before it catered to golf.
The device is equipped with a 120° ultra-wide-angle lens, although the recording is still done through your smartphone. During my tests, I covered the lens, yet it continued to track my movements around the room, indicating that the lens primarily assists with broader field analysis rather than personal filming.
The app has recently been updated to allow recording in 4K at up to 60 frames per second. While this is an exciting feature, be cautious about using it for extended recordings, as it will consume a significant amount of storage. Users can benefit from 20GB of free cloud storage and the option to edit footage manually or let the AI handle it.
However, notable limitations remain, such as the inability to remove watermarks and timestamps from videos using the app. Nevertheless, users can live stream directly from the app to platforms like YouTube or Facebook, making it a great tool for remote viewers to follow games.
The Chameleon features a robust 7500 mAh battery, providing over 8 hours of usage, which reduces the need for frequent charging.
What Comes in the Box
When purchasing the Xbot Go Chameleon, you receive:
- The Xbot Go Chameleon camera
- A remote controller
- A USB-C to USB-A charging cable
It’s worth mentioning that you must remove the case from your phone for it to fit in the mount securely.
Conclusion
The Xbot Go Chameleon is a promising device for anyone looking to film team sports, allowing a hands-free filming experience while remaining fully involved in the action. As I wrap up this review, perhaps it’s time for me to immerse myself in a team sport so I can truly test this device to its full capabilities.
Keywords
- Xbot Go Chameleon
- AI sports tracker
- Blink Tech
- Team sports
- Follow Me mode
- 4K recording
- Sports compatibility
- Live streaming
FAQ
What sports does the Xbot Go Chameleon currently support?
The Xbot Go Chameleon currently supports soccer, basketball, tennis, and broomball. Golf mode is still in development.
Can I control the Xbot Go Chameleon using my Apple Watch?
Yes, you can control the device and preview shots in real-time using an Apple Watch.
Does the app allow for 4K recording?
Yes, the app has been updated to support 4K recording at up to 60 frames per second.
Is there any cloud storage included?
Yes, the Xbot Go Chameleon comes with 20GB of free cloud storage.
Can I remove watermarks from the videos?
Currently, there is no option to remove watermarks or timestamps when using the app.