3
connected thermal imaging cameras
1800
Metre detection distance
6
Colour palettes to choose from
Alpen Optics is a leading supplier of high-quality thermal imaging cameras, target optics, binoculars, spotting scopes and rangefinders for hunting and outdoor use. Alpen Optics GmbH is part of the Bresser Group of Companies and was founded in California in 1996. This was followed in 2022 by expansion into Europe and the founding of a separate company in Hilden.
1996
Hilden
Hunting and outdoor
IoT app development
Together with SPRYLAB, Alpen Optics has raised its app for the mobile control of thermal imaging cameras to a new level through modern IoT app development. An initially focussed range of functions with optimal hardware connection and smooth data transfer form the basis for long-term, agile further development of the application, which is thus consistently geared towards the needs of the users. The project highlights at a glance:
Alpen Optics wanted to optimise an existing app for its Apex series of thermal cameras developed for hunting. The aim was to improve the connection quality, increase user-friendliness and harmonise the design with the brand image.
“We had a very clear concept for the functional scope of the IoT app. The SPRYLAB team immediately showed a personal interest in our topics and devices. We were also impressed by the straightforward communication right from the start,” says Dominik Weiß, Product Manager at Alpen Optics.
One challenge was to develop a smooth interface between the hardware and the app that would transfer the data from the device to the app in real time. As the cameras are manufactured by a service provider in China, a key focus for the success of the pro
IoT app development requires particular precision. The Alpen Optics application must be closely connected to the hardware and at the same time function smoothly on a large number of smartphones from different manufacturers. With the ever-growing variety of Android devices, each with different hardware configurations and operating system versions, developers and testers have to overcome a wide range of compatibility issues. This is the only way to ensure a coherent user experience – regardless of whether the IoT app is running on a high-end smartphone or an older tablet.
The new Alpen Optics app is an important milestone in the further development of the Alpen Optic portfolio in the thermal market. Thermal imaging cameras can detect warm objects at a distance of up to 1,800 metres. The IoT app enables instantaneous live streaming of the thermal image from the camera to the end device in real time. The camera can also be conveniently operated with a smartphone using the app. The application also has a photo and video function that allows users to record videos, take photos of impressive moments and save the material in a gallery. The media can be organised chronologically and it is possible to share them directly from the gallery or publish them on social media. After all, what could be better than sharing impressive shots with other hunting enthusiasts?
The IoT app can be used without an internet connection: the thermal optics can be quickly connected to mobile devices using the WiFi function so that hunters can conveniently follow the action in a live stream via mobile devices. The development is based on a hybrid model with Flutter for Android and iOS.
Alpen Optics’ short-term goal was to create a user-friendly app that would ensure a seamless connection between hardware and software. Due to the variety of devices and versions in the Android market, this requires ongoing maintenance, for which SPRYLAB is also responsible. The initial positive customer feedback forms the basis for the long-term further development of the IoT app.
In the medium term, Alpen Optics aims to gradually expand the app with SPRYLAB into a comprehensive platform that offers its customers an all-round experience. The agile collaboration makes it possible to expand the application in short iteration cycles with a strong focus on user feedback. “SPRYLAB has always responded quickly to our problems. We were impressed by the collaborative and almost informal atmosphere, which is why we are aiming for a longer-term collaboration,” says Weiß.
In future, the IoT app will become a central point of contact for all aspects of Alpen-Optics products. This includes not only the bundled presentation of the existing product range, but also the integration of information and news relating to hunting. This also includes the option of registering various devices via the app and storing relevant data, such as invoices, in the event of a warranty claim.
About Alpen Optics
Alpen Optics GmbH is a leading supplier of high-end binoculars, riflescopes and spotting scopes. The declared aim of the company, which is part of the Bresser Group of Companies, is to offer hunters and outdoor enthusiasts high-performance optics of excellent quality at an attractive price. Founded in 1996, Alpen Optics has already won seven Outdoor Life Great Buy Awards, an Outdoor Life Editor’s Choice Award and a Field & Stream Best of the Best Award.
We are driven by exciting and challenging IoT projects. If you are looking for an IT service provider to grow with, we are the right partner for you.
Keithstr. 2-4
10787 Berlin
Germany
