With ‘Smart Homes’ and Internet of Things (IoT) becoming increasingly popular, smart WiFi cameras are also becoming gadgets of interest to homeowners, small and big businesses. However, despite their increasing demands, a good number of individuals are not aware of the advantages of this piece of tech. Those that are cognizant of WiFi cameras, on the other hand, are quite skeptical about using them in the household as there are certain holdbacks which usually revolves around: reliability, durability, bandwidth usage etc.
What are WiFi Cameras?
Unlike the much older hardwired security cameras, WiFi-connected security cameras allow you see, first-hand, everything going on in your home, office, or anywhere they are fitted — which is pretty much the idea behind the smart home — from anywhere you are. So you could be a thousand mile away and check what your kids or pets are up to in the house, monitor entry and exit to your room and pricey cloth collection, keep an eye on your front door, lawn etc… all from the screen of your smartphone.
The best part is that you don’t even have to keep an eye on the screen all the time to know if an intruder is trying to break into your room. There are models of WiFi security camera that come with highly sensitive — though adjustable — motion sensors that will alert you on your smartphone if it detects movement in your home. Some models even detect sounds; so if your fire alarm goes off, or there’s a loud bang in your home while you’re away, the WiFi camera will alert you and show you live footage.
Honestly, in any home tagged as smart, WiFi-connected cameras are a big deal. However, there’s always the “Will they work without internet?” question as well as the bandwidth consumption concerns. So…
Will WiF- Cameras work without an active Internet connection?
Straight answer – Yes, your home’s WiFi camera will work fine without an active internet connection. But there’s a catch. You see, the point of having a WiFi camera in the home is to have a “third eye” through which you can monitor events while you are away. Without an active internet connection, that benefit of remote surveillance through your smartphone, tablet or through the web will be stripped away. But if your home’s router is always active round the clock, you’ll enjoy real-time remote monitoring from wherever you are.
However, in the case of no internet connection, there are WiFi cameras with SD card slot(s) that can record and save events on storage sticks. So internet or no internet, WiFI camera still pretty much come in handy for home monitoring and security. Additionally, these SD cards also help reduce bandwidth consumption. Which leads us t the next big question about WiFi cameras…
How much data does WiFi Camera use?
While there is no fixed answer to this question as there are different types and brands of smart WiFi cameras out there, the volume of bandwidth a WiFi camera system consumes daily, weekly or monthly depends on a number of factors;
1. Camera’s resolution
For decent quality of footages and recordings, the minimum resolution of the average Smart home WiFi camera is usually 1080p. Of course, there are models with higher resolutions but you should know that the higher the quality of images and videos they record, the more data they consume.
2. Frame rate per seconds (FPS)
This refers to how often a camera displays frames (consecutive images) in a single second. While there are cameras that stream at 5fps, there are models that can go as high as 60fps.
The frame rate is the frequency at which images (frames) are displayed per second.
The higher the Fps of your WiFi camera, the clearer, more fluent your videos will be, and consequently, data consumption will be higher.
3. Camera features
Generally, capabilities of WiFi cameras vary from device to device but the more sophisticated the features (like two-way audio, alarms, motion detector, etc.) of your home’s WiFi camera are, the more data it consumes. Also, the number of features you activate and actively use determines bandwidth consumption.
4. Footage upload frequency
Do you upload recordings from your camera to the cloud 24/7 or only when the camera detects motions and sound? Of course, you need not be told that recording your home round-the-clock when you are away on a business trip consumes much more data than uploading feeds only when the camera detects an intruder.
WiFi cameras these days are smart; to cut down on data usage, some models are able to record 10 – 15 seconds alert videos only when they detect unusual activities and upload them to the cloud or save them locally to a storage device. According to Cammy , a provider of home security systems, wireless cameras that are always recording video can easily use over 60GB of data transfer (uploading) per month .
If, however, you set the camera to record only upon demand (like when it detects movements), expect that quota to drop to about 10GB – 30GB every month.
5. Number of cameras (in your home’s security system)
This is also pretty much straightforward. If you have cameras at your front door, kitchen, garage, kids room, and they are actively streaming (or recording) feeds, expect your fixed monthly data to be blown out in a matter of days or weeks.
6. Scene activity and make-up
The type of scenes a WiFi camera records also has an impact on how much data it consumes. It is a general rule of thumb recording a 10-second clip of a white wall uses less bandwidth than streaming an equal length clip of a busy room full of kids.
7. Compression level
Before recorded clips from smart WiFi cameras are uploaded, they under some sort of compression — which varies by brand and model. And while compression affects video and image quality, it helps reduce bandwidth usage.
Rounding it all up
While these are some of the most common factors that determine if your WiFi camera will eat up your capped monthly internet data, there are still a lot more. However, whether or not your WiFi security camera blows out your internet bandwidth, data consumption of these smart home gadgets is something you can take control of. Using the above-mentioned tips and determinants, you can find the best WiFi camera that’s best suited for your needs and internet bandwidth budget.
That said, WiFi Cameras are best suited for use with uninterrupted power supply and uncapped internet connection — both of which are next to non-existent in a number of African countries. In fact, it’s almost the same reasons why many Africans still find it hard switching to Netflix from local satellite TV providers .
Conclusively, WiFi Cameras are great — if you have constant power and uncapped internet. If you don’t, they are still great. You just have to ensure you use them in a way that won’t have you subscribing for monthly internet packages four times in a month.
Need an affordable smart home WiFi camera? You can check them out HERE .
Sodiq Olamide is a tech writer based in Nigeria, covering the latest reviews, how-tos, and news on consumer tech trends with a unique African perspective. Whether analyzing emerging technologies or offering practical guides, Sodiq brings a deep understanding of how technology shapes lives across the continent.
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Talkio Mobile , Uganda’s newest telecommunications service provider, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with Banana Life Investments, a leading chain of mobile phone and retail shops. This strategic alliance aims to bring Talkio’s innovative telecom services closer to Ugandans.
This collaboration will leverage Banana Life Investments’ extensive retail network of 26 stores strategically located across Uganda in major malls, towns, and cities to provide customers with unparalleled convenience. Through this partnership, Talkio Mobile will offer its full suite of services, including SIM cards, airtime, and exclusive product offerings at any Banana Life Investment location.
This partnership is more than a business initiative—it’s a shared commitment to transforming lives. By integrating Talkio Mobile’s forward-thinking services & nationwide reach with Banana Life Investments’ retail footprint, the two brands are setting a new standard for customer convenience and inclusivity.
READ ALSO: 5 Things You Need to Know About Talkio Mobile: New Telecom Company in Uganda
“This partnership aligns perfectly with our mission of connecting Ugandans to innovative and transformative telecom solutions,” said Vianne Allan Ahura, CEO of Talkio Mobile. “By leveraging Banana Life Investments’ trusted presence and nationwide footprint, we are not only expanding our agent network but also bringing our services closer to the communities we serve. This collaboration ensures that our online customers can now enjoy a seamless offline experience right at their doorstep. Together, we are empowering Ugandans with the tools they need to stay connected, grow their businesses, and unlock new opportunities.”
Solomon Ssemuyaba, the assistant general manager at Banana Life Investments, echoed this sentiment: “We are proud to join hands with Talkio Mobile to deliver innovative, customer-centric solutions. This partnership represents our shared vision of fostering a connected future for Uganda. Together, we are redefining what convenience and accessibility mean for our customers.”
The partnership goes beyond retail distribution, introducing joint initiatives aimed at value addition and personalized service. Customers can expect seamless access to:
- SIM Card Sales : Available at all Banana Life Investments locations.
- Talkio phone number bookings : Book your preferred Talkio number at any Banana Life Investments location.
- Airtime Services : Recharge easily through in-store purchases.
- Customer Support : Friendly and knowledgeable staff trained to assist with Talkio Mobile products and services.
Additionally, the two companies plan to launch promotional campaigns and expand services to even more locations, ensuring no Ugandan is left behind in the digital transformation.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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The Mobile World Congress (MWC) Barcelona , the world’s largest exhibition for the mobile industry, has just concluded. This annual event gathers leading technology brands to unveil groundbreaking mobile, AI, and digital solutions innovations. At MWC 2025, TECNO showcased a range of AI-driven products, reinforcing its commitment to cutting-edge technology.
The key launches included:
- CAMON 40 Series – AI-powered smartphones with One-Tap FlashSnap and advanced mobile imaging features.
- MEGABOOK S14 – The world’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring AI-enhanced multitasking and Snapdragon® X Elite.
- MEGABOOK T14 Air & K15S – Lightweight ultrabooks with AI capabilities and extended battery life.
- TECNO AI Glasses Series – Smart eyewear integrating AI imaging, translation, and AR display.
Jan Stryjak, Associate Director at Counterpoint Research, shared, “In the past year, we have observed significant advancements in the field of AI. AI will continue to drive transformative changes in our daily lives. In this critical period for the economic development of emerging markets, TECNO’s AI technologies are unlocking potential for diverse needs.”
“The application of AI technologies is crucial and urgent in emerging markets. We’re committed to bridging the digital gap between emerging and mature markets,” said TECNO CMO, Laury Bai. “TECNO is taking a practical approach to make AI more accessible, ensuring users in emerging markets can access AI and cutting-edge technologies.”
Laury Bai, TECNO CMO
Driven by its commitment, TECNO has forged a robust partnership with MediaTek, establishing a joint AI laboratory dedicated to accelerating advancements in AI. At the event, James Chen, Vice President of Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek, emphasized, “The synergistic R&D efforts between TECNO and MediaTek are set to democratize AI technology. Our collaboration powers a seamless, interconnected AI experience, bringing users a future of truly connected intelligence.”
James Chen, Vice President, Product and Technology Marketing at MediaTek
CAMON 40 Series Powered by AI One-Tap FlashSnap Revolutionizes Smartphone Snapshot Photography
TECNO’s Global Product Launch Officer, Olivier Mas, officially unveiled TECNO’s next-generation AI-driven products. Attendees at TECNO’s launch event witnessed the highly anticipated debut of TECNO’s new CAMON 40 Series, a device that embodies TECNO’s legacy of excellence in mobile imaging. Featuring One-Tap FlashSnap Mode and TECNO AI, the series sets a new benchmark in smartphone photography, delivering exceptional snapshot capabilities and AI-enhanced user experiences.
Olivier Mas, TECNO Global Product Launch Officer
The CAMON 40 Series exemplifies a commitment to innovation that transcends hardware and software, extending into strategic partnerships that deliver cutting-edge AI solutions to emerging markets. Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud, remarked, “Our collaboration with TECNO on the CAMON 40 Series is a standout example. Leveraging Google Cloud’s capabilities, we’ve introduced groundbreaking features such as Ask Ella, AI Image Generator, AI Writing, and AI Translate. I am particularly impressed by the industry-leading and competitive edge of some of these innovations. For instance, TECNO’s AI supports text translation in 136 languages, voice translation in 44 languages, and photo translation in 51 languages. We are excited to further strengthen our partnership with TECNO, unlocking limitless potential to bring advanced yet practical AI capabilities to emerging markets in a convenient and secure manner.”
Matt Waldbusser, Managing Director of Global Solutions and Consumer AI at Google Cloud
The CAMON 40 Series’ innovative One-Tap FlashSnap leverages AI to enhance imaging capabilities, revolutionizing mobile photography. AI optimizes camera startup and continuous shooting for instant captures, while AI-powered multi-frame processing intelligently reduces noise and enhances details, delivering sharper, more refined images. Additionally, the BestMoment algorithm analyzes motion patterns, automatically selecting the optimal frames for precise, high-quality shots in dynamic scenarios, ensuring users an unparalleled mobile imaging experience.
TECNO CAMON 40 Demonstrates the Cutting-Edge FlashSnap Capability
To delve deeper into the imaging prowess of the CAMON 40 Series, TECNO invited Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK, to share the image performance of CAMON 40 Pro. Frédéric highlighted, “The CAMON 40 Pro 5G has demonstrated exceptional imaging and performance capabilities in our rigorous evaluations. We’ve been particularly impressed with photo performance being the best for devices under 600$, and the 1st eligible device to our Smart Choice Label.”
Onsite photo of Frédéric Guichard, CEO of DXOMARK
Beyond its advanced rapid-capture functionality, the integration of TECNO AI further enhances the device’s capabilities. Intelligent imaging, a 360° AI Call Assistant, and productivity tools elevate creativity and efficiency. Powered by MediaTek’s latest chipsets, the series ensures smooth performance, fast processing, and extended battery life. With a sleek, durable, and water-resistant design, it seamlessly blends style with practicality for modern users.
MEGABOOK S14, the World’s Lightest 14-inch OLED Laptop, Inspires Creators and Game Lovers
The MEGABOOK S14 is TECNO’s first OLED laptop and the industry’s lightest 14-inch OLED laptop, featuring a 2.8K OLED display and incredibly weighing only 899g (31.7oz). The laptop is equipped with the outstanding power of the Snapdragon® X Elite compute platform, the flagship chipset for AI PCs from Qualcomm Technologies, and integrates TECNO’s world’s first self-developed edge-side large-scale AI model, to achieve AI-enhanced multitasking.
World’s Lightest 14-inch Laptop MEGABOOK S14
Specifically designed for next-gen AI productivity, TECNO AI enhances the Ella AI Assistant, AI-powered PPT generation, AI-driven image search, smart albums, and offline meeting transcription with multilingual support. The External Graphics Dock, equipped with a powerful NVIDIA graphic card, delivers scalable, high-performance capabilities for design, gaming, and content creation. The laptop’s 2.8K OLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate ensures exceptional visuals, while DTS:X Ultra dual 2W speakers, Wi-Fi 6E, fingerprint login, and PC Manager optimize connectivity and user experience.
TECNO’s strategic partnership with Qualcomm Technologies was a highlight of the TECNO AI Ecosystem Product Launch event, demonstrating a shared vision for the future of AI PCs. Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm, took the stage to discuss the integration of Qualcomm’s cutting-edge PC chipset into the new MEGABOOK S14 laptop, underscoring TECNO’s commitment to delivering high-performance computing solutions.
Kedar Kondap, SVP & GM of Compute and Gaming at Qualcomm
In addition, TECNO also introduced several standout new products. The featherlight 999g (35.2oz) ultrabook MEGABOOK T14 Air, features high-speed storage and LPDDR5 memory, while the ultra-thin, all-metal MEGABOOK K15S, equipped with a powerful 70Wh battery and supported by a 65W PD GaN charger, offers a smarter and more long-lasting user experience. Both devices are empowered by TECNO AI with advanced AI capabilities such as AI Album and AI Voice Assistant, making them perfect companions for all aspects of life.
The Next Game-Changing Tech Innovation: See the World with the TECNO AI Glasses Series
TECNO’s new AI Glasses Series also took center stage with the introduction of TECNO AI Glasses Pro and TECNO AI Glasses, reimagining eyewear with cutting-edge imaging, intelligent interactions, and a sleek aesthetic. The TECNO AI Glasses feature an aviator design, while the Pro model showcases a browline style, both embodying timeless elegance and modern fashion.
TECNO AI Glasses Redefine the Way People See the Future
Equipped with a 50MP high-definition camera, the series integrates an OV50D sensor, a 100° ultra-wide-angle custom lens, and an AI ISP imaging chip, forming a mobile-grade imaging system. This system lets users capture stunning, high-resolution photos with advanced AI noise reduction and HDR capabilities. With real-time translation supporting over 100 languages, TECNO AI’s Ella empowers accurate translation even for less common languages, as well as voice control, AI-powered object recognition, and intelligent information summaries for ultimate convenience.
Additionally, the AI Glasses Pro features a MicroLED display with 7th-gen resin waveguide technology, offering a 30° field of view, over 1,500 nits of brightness AR display, and a lightweight, ultra-thin design. The AR display allows users to effortlessly enjoy features like translation display, navigation, information prompts, and teleprompting.
Equipped with a 250mAh battery, these glasses offer over 11 hours of music playback and 8 hours of mixed use with just 30 minutes of charging. An advanced ultra-linear speaker, bass enhancement, and spatial sound deliver an immersive audio experience, while Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.4 ensure seamless connectivity.
With these innovative launches, TECNO is setting new standards in mobile imaging and AI-enhanced technology, shaping a more connected and empowered future for consumers in emerging markets. Once again, TECNO has showcased its cutting-edge innovation on the global stage at MWC. With the brand essence of “Stop at Nothing”, TECNO’s relentless pursuit of innovation is making AI-powered technology more accessible, allowing consumers to experience the future ahead of time.
Solomon Obwot is a tech writer based in Kampala, Uganda, with extensive experience in the local tech startup ecosystem. He covers the latest news and analysis on consumer tech, writes in-depth smartphone reviews, and conducts insightful interviews with industry experts. Solomon is also a passionate podcaster, sharing his knowledge and engaging in discussions about Africa’s rapidly growing tech landscape. Send emails to [email protected]
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