Connectivity has always been one of the biggest constraints in deploying vision AI systems at scale. Running cables is expensive, inflexible, and often impractical—especially in industrial and outdoor environments.
With the M8 WiFi Adapter, we’re changing that.
This small addition unlocks a much bigger shift: truly wireless, event-driven AI at the edge with OAK4. Find it in our store.
⚠️ Prototype Access
The M8 WiFi Adapter is currently available in prototype access, meaning there is a limited supply of in-development units. At this stage, we’re working closely with users to gather feedback and shape the final product.
Why WiFi Matters More with OAK4
Traditional vision systems rely on constant high-bandwidth streaming to a central computer. That means:
- Stable wired connections
- High network load
- Dedicated processing hardware (often a PC)
But OAK4 is different.
Because OAK4 runs all AI, compute, and detections directly on-device, it doesn’t need to stream raw video continuously. Instead, it can:
- Process data locally
- Detect meaningful events
- Send only high-level metadata (e.g. detections, alerts, results)
The Big Unlock 🔓
This is where WiFi becomes a game changer.
With OAK4:
- You don’t need a perfect, high-bandwidth connection
- Even a spotty WiFi signal is enough
- Only lightweight metadata needs to reach the cloud
That means you can:
- Deploy in locations without reliable infrastructure
- Reduce bandwidth costs dramatically
- Build event-driven systems instead of streaming pipelines
From Detection to Action—Without Wires
The M8 WiFi Adapter enables a powerful new workflow:
- OAK4 detects an event locally (e.g. person, vehicle, defect)
- It sends a small metadata packet over WiFi
- The cloud or central system triggers downstream actions
No constant video stream. No heavy infrastructure.
And importantly:
👉 No intermediate trigger PC required
Compared to setups using RVC2 or RealSense, where a host machine is often needed to process and relay data, OAK4 + M8 WiFi allows for:
- Fully standalone deployments
- Lower system cost
- Simpler architecture
Why an External WiFi Adapter?
Many users asked for built-in WiFi—but integrating it directly introduces complexity in design, certification, and thermal constraints.
The M8 WiFi Adapter takes a modular approach:
- Add WiFi only when needed
- Keep core devices simpler and more robust
- Maintain flexibility across different deployments
Built for the Real World
Unlike standard USB-C WiFi dongles (which are also supported with OAK4), the M8 version is designed for industrial environments:
- IP67-rated (dustproof and waterproof)
- Secure M8 connector for vibration resistance
- Reliable operation in harsh conditions
Compared to USB WiFi Dongles:
- ✅ Better durability
- ✅ More secure connection
- ✅ Suitable for outdoor and industrial use
Simple, Plug-and-Connect
Getting started is easy:
- Connect the adapter via the M8 port
- Power up your OAK4 device
- Start sending data wirelessly
No redesign. No complexity.
Technical Specifications
- WiFi: 802.11ac (WiFi 5)
- Bluetooth: Dual-mode BLE
- Security: WPA2 / WPA3 (Personal & Enterprise)
- Planned Operating Temperature: -20°C to 60°C
- Connector: M8
- Planned Ingress Protection: IP67
What’s in the Box?
- M8 WiFi Adapter (PR1 prototype)
- M8 cable (M-F)
A New Deployment Paradigm
The combination of on-device AI (OAK4) and lightweight wireless connectivity (M8 WiFi Adapter) enables something fundamentally new:
- Vision systems that don’t depend on infrastructure
- AI that acts locally and communicates efficiently
- Deployments that are simpler, cheaper, and more scalable
⚠️ Prototype Access (Limited Availability)
The M8 WiFi Adapter is currently in prototype access, with a limited number of units available. We’re actively collaborating with early users to gather feedback, validate use cases, and refine the product ahead of full release.
No wires. No extra PCs. Just intelligent devices that see, decide, and act.
That’s the real power unlocked by the M8 WiFi Adapter. Find the M8 WiFi adapter in our store.
