Upcoming OS update is said to introduce a new scanning feature that'll reveal nearby spy cameras
(Image credit: Xiaomi)
In what we think could be a world-first, Xiaomi will reportedly be adding a new feature to its phones to enable them to detect nearby hidden cameras. Said to be included in an upcoming version of the phone giant's HyperOS 2.0 operating system, this ground-breaking feature would use WLAN (wireless LAN) searches to detect unusual Wi-Fi signals in the area; signals consistent with WLAN profiles emitted by hidden cameras.
Apparently the scanning tech is a development of an existing program available on GitHub, called Ingram. Leaked HyperOS 2.0 screenshots show the feature supposedly in action:
(Image credit: Xiaomi)
If Xiaomi does indeed implement hidden camera detection in future versions of its mobile OS, it could really prove a hit with frequent travellers concerned with being spied on when staying in unfamiliar accommodation. After all, it's estimated that around 11% of travellers will be exposed to hidden cameras, with the rise of privately-owned holiday accommodation rented through platforms like Airbnb making it easier than ever for peeping toms to set up hidden cameras to spy on their guests. Having such a convenient means of camera detection built into your phone would also likely appeal to individuals who live in regions where covert state surveillance is commonplace, and it taps into a more widespread concern with digital privacy in general.
It's not yet clear when Xiaomi will officially add this feature to a new HyperOS 2.0 revision, but if/when it does, we'd be keen to see how it compares to the best hidden camera detectors currently on the market.
Get the Digital Camera World Newsletter
The best camera deals, reviews, product advice, and unmissable photography news, direct to your inbox!
Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access
Ben is the Imaging Labs manager, responsible for all the testing on Digital Camera World and across the entire photography portfolio at Future. Whether he's in the lab testing the sharpness of new lenses, the resolution of the latest image sensors, the zoom range of monster bridge cameras or even the latest camera phones, Ben is our go-to guy for technical insight. He's also the team's man-at-arms when it comes to camera bags, filters, memory cards, and all manner of camera accessories – his lab is a bit like the Batcave of photography! With years of experience trialling and testing kit, he's a human encyclopedia of benchmarks when it comes to recommending the best buys.
