There is a lot of hype around sensors and cameras for self-driving cars. For now, however, it’s still us humans driving. Owl, a Palo Alto, California-based startup, today launched its first product, a connected car security camera, and announced $18 million in funding. Defy.vc led the round, with participation from Khosla Ventures, Menlo Ventures, Sherpa Capital, Moment Ventures, Maniv Mobility, and CSAA Insurance Group.
“Cars need video security, badly,” said Owl founder and CEO Andy Hodge, in a statement. “No matter how you look at it, whether in terms of dollars or physical damage or emotional harm caused, the car is a place where a lot happens.”
Owl’s dual-facing camera is placed on the car’s dashboard to capture what happens inside and outside the vehicle.
When parked, sensors will automatically alert the driver via the Owl Cam app if there are any problems, like break-ins or parking lot dings. The app then lets the driver review and share the HD videos.
Source: Venture Beat
Author: Bernice Magistretti
