Ubiquiti AI Key (AI-Key) — is an advanced Edge AI device designed to expand the capabilities of the UniFi Protect security system. It is capable of processing up to 1000 smart detection events per hour, providing detailed classifications and enabling natural language search. This article discusses the key features of the AI Key, its setup, usage, and potential issues and solutions.


1. Key Features of Ubiquiti AI Key

The AI Key operates as an edge computing device that receives smart detections from UniFi cameras and processes them using machine learning algorithms. It utilizes vision-based neural network models specifically optimized for real-time video stream analysis. These models can not only recognize basic objects (people, vehicles) but also analyze complex scenes, providing detailed descriptions of events.


Unlike the basic functionality of Protect cameras, the AI Key adds the following capabilities:


NeXT AI Natural Language Search — natural language search functionality.

AI Alerts — smart alerts for object detections.

Speech to Text — converting speech to text.

License Plate Recognition (LPR) — recognizing vehicle license plates.

Face Recognition — face recognition.

Face Enhancement — improving the quality of face images.

The AI Key is a compact device measuring 134.2 x 131.2 x 33.7 mm and weighing 635 g, with a durable aluminum alloy body that ensures reliability and protection. The built-in 1.3-inch touch display makes it easy to manage the device and monitor its operation.


2. Practical Application

2.1 Setting Up AI Key


Connect the AI Key via PoE++ (50–57V, max. 45W).

Add the device to the UniFi Protect system.

Wait for the firmware update to complete.

Go to UniFi Devices > AI Key > Settings.

Select the cameras for processing smart detections (limit — 1000 events/hour).

The AI Key is equipped with an Arm Cortex-A78AE v8.2 processor, 16 GB LPDDR5 RAM, and 128 GB SSD storage, ensuring excellent performance when processing video and data. This memory capacity allows the device to run multiple AI models simultaneously, improving the speed of detection processing and reducing latency in video stream analysis. Network connectivity is provided via a 1× GbE RJ45 port, and management is done through Ethernet.


2.2 Enhancing Video Surveillance Capabilities


The AI Key significantly expands the capabilities of UniFi Protect cameras. It is important to consider the compatibility of functions with different camera models:


G4/G5 cameras: Support all AI Key features, including Face Recognition, LPR, and Speech to Text.

G3 cameras and third-party ONVIF-compatible devices: Require an additional AI Port to process the video stream before analysis by the AI Key.

Examples of business use:


Face Recognition to automatically track and identify customers.

LPR for vehicle number plate registration for parking access control.

Using AI Alerts to notify security of suspicious activities.

The device is protected against electrostatic discharges (ESD/EMP) with ratings of ±12kV (air) and ±8kV (contact), making it reliable in harsh environments. It operates stably within a temperature range of -5°C to 40°C and humidity from 5% to 95% (non-condensing).


2.3 Using AI Key with AI Port


AI Port is necessary for integrating Protect G3 cameras or other third-party ONVIF-compatible devices. AI Port adds basic detections, which are then processed by the AI Key, enabling advanced features such as LPR and Face Recognition in real-time. Additionally, AI Port helps significantly reduce video processing delays and improve detection accuracy by distributing the load across devices.


3. Possible Issues and Solutions

Unable to add device: Network settings block the connection. Solution: Check VLAN settings and allow access to UniFi Protect.

1000 events/hour limitation: Too many active cameras. Solution: Optimize the camera selection for processing.

Issues with Face Recognition: Poor lighting, low video quality. Solution: Improve lighting and use Face Enhancement.

PoE++ power issues: Insufficient power. Solution: Check the compatibility of the PoE++ injector.

Conclusion

Ubiquiti AI Key is a powerful addition to the UniFi Protect ecosystem, significantly enhancing video surveillance capabilities using advanced AI algorithms. Proper setup and strategic camera selection will help maximize the device’s resources. Thanks to its large RAM capacity, the AI Key can quickly process data and adapt to changing shooting conditions. Despite some limitations, it remains an excellent tool for improving security and monitoring. The FCC, IC, and CE certifications confirm its compliance with international standards.