A camera recording in per 1280 x 720p is one thing. But having one hidden inside a car key fob is another. Here, for those who might need it, is a key fob which can detect movement, record it, or manually if you prefer.
Why would you want to do that? Well, it’s a question I asked too. It’s not really a great security tool. If someone did get in your home then they’re going to pinch your car keys, and it looks like a key fob so…
What you can perhaps use this for is to secretly film someone without them knowing. You simply take the flap off the back, put the microSD in (not supplied) and charge it up. There’s night vision and a motion detection system, so should someone sneak into your room (perhaps a sister or brother), you can catch them in the act without them even knowing.
As a key fob, yes, it really does look like a normal key fob. The only difference, if you look really closely, is that the camera up front is neatly tucked between the front grill. If you were looking for it you’d definitely see it, but most people won’t spot it – especially if it’s attached to your keys.
However, one thing it won’t do is to record the audio. This appears to be due to Amazon rules on spy cameras and it stops you getting any incriminating audio. Imagine, let’s say, that you leave your keys (complete with this key fob) on your desk at work and your colleagues start talking about you while you’re getting a coffee. You’ll miss all of that.
However, the makers Conbrov, have a way around this in the shape of a software update. You’ll need to download and copy a “.bin” file to the microSD card and it’ll then install it. After this, you get audio.
The fob / camera comes with a 12-month warranty. We’ve got a few example videos below, and you’ll see the night vision (which goes up to 15ft). The motion detection starts the camera recording and they tell me that there’s a 1 year standby, so you don’t have to worry too much about the battery going flat.
The lower lock button is for manually recording (the unlock button is for motion detection). and you’ll see some examples below. We tried filming as we walked down the road and it’s safe to say that holding the thing whilst film probably isn’t wise as it’s a little too wobbly.
It’s available from Amazon US but you can get 10% off by entering conbrovt19 on the Conbrov website. It’s $59.99 without the discount code.
As you can see, the quality really isn’t bad at all and the low light performance was admirable too. This, as a I mention before, is best left on a counter rather than held whilst you’re moving around, but the footage is definitely clear and you’ll be able to spot who you’re looking at from your secret footage.