Intel’s new Realsense depth cameras work just as well outside as they do indoors

For its next-generation of Realsense depth-sensing cameras, Intel has upgraded them to be just as capable outdoors as they are indoors, meaning you can use them for video calls and Windows Hello logins even when you’re in your sunny backyard. They also operate at longer range than their predecessors and have their own dedicated image signal processor for adjustments and scaling color data.

Although once the reserve of spy movies, facial recognition technology is as simple today as sticking a stereoscopic 3D webcam on your laptop, and Intel’s Realsense depth-sensing cameras have proved one of the most popular ranges. The latest generation is likely to continue that trend with significant improvements to all of their most important features.

Indeed making sure you’re running the latest hardware and software can make Windows Hello much more secure.

The two new options in the D400 range, the D415 and D435 cameras were shown off at this year’s CES and are available to buy now from Intel’s store. No word yet if they’re going to end up helping Intel make VR movies, though.

Intel Realsense D415

Key Specs

Use environment: Indoor/Outdoor

Depth technology: Active IR Stereo (Rolling Shutter)

Depth FOV (HxVxD/degrees): 69.4 x 42.5 x 77

Depth output resolution: 1280 x 720

RGB resolution: 1080p @ 30 fps

Maximum range: 10m+

Physical dimensions (LxDxH): 99mm x 20mm x 23mm

The D415 might be the lower-end model of this new generation of depth-sensing cameras, but that doesn’t mean it lacks for features. Like its bigger brother below, it sports the same 10-meter maximum range in ideal conditions, and full depth output of 1280 x 720 up to 90 frames per second. For more standard video calling and images, it goes up to 1080p at 30 fps.

Whatever you use it for, it’s powered by just a single USB connection and has a UNC screw mount should you wish to mount it on a tripod and a pair of M3 thread mounting points.

Those stats combined make this a very capable camera for both facial detection systems like Windows Hello and more traditional video calls. The fact that it works so well outdoors now will be a boon to those who like to work and play on their system in their yard. Instead of having to step back inside for a video call on a bright day, you can stay where you’re most comfortable and enjoy the outdoors while conversing with someone anywhere in the world.

As well as end users, Intel is marketing this camera to professionals, suggesting that integrators and developers should consider utilizing the camera to integrate depth sensing into their new application. Any such developers will be able to leverage the support of Intel’s RealSense SDK 2.0, too.

Available now on Intel’s store, you can pick up one of these cameras for $150.