We Tested an AI Camera at the Airport (OBSBOT Tail 2 Review)

Why It Matters

The review shows AI cameras still lag behind human operators in demanding live‑event settings, underscoring the need for better tracking and durability before automation can replace skilled crews.

Key Takeaways

• Obsbot Tail Air 2 offers 5× optical, 12× hybrid zoom.
• AI tracking works well on humans but struggles with fast planes.
• No IP rating; unsuitable for rain or dusty airport conditions.
• App interface intuitive but lacks labeling and extra preset positions.
• Overall camera quality is good; tracking issues limit replacing human operators.

Summary

The video is a hands‑on review by a live‑plane‑spotting channel testing Obsbot Tail Air 2, an AI‑powered PTZR camera marketed for subject tracking, to see if it could replace the human cameraman.

The Tail Air 2 packs a 1‑/1.5‑inch sensor, 5× optical zoom (12× hybrid), pan‑tilt‑zoom‑rotate mechanics and Obsbot’s Tracking 2.0 software. In bright, back‑lit conditions with fast‑moving aircraft on runway 05, the AI struggled to maintain lock, often losing targets, whereas on a slower, closer side of the field it delivered crisp 4K footage.

Reviewer notes, “people in the chat barely noticed the difference” during a calmer test, but later admits, “the camera really struggled to track the planes smoothly.” He also points out UI quirks—unlabeled icons, only three preset positions—and the lack of an IP rating.

The assessment concludes that while the unit’s build quality and image fidelity are strong, its tracking algorithm and ruggedness are not yet suited for high‑speed, outdoor aviation use, meaning human operators remain essential. Improvements in AI tracking, weather sealing, and UI could open new markets for autonomous broadcast gear.

Original Description

In this video review of the Obsbot Tail 2 AI Tracking PTZR Camera, we test whether the 4 K recording and live streaming functionality are suitable for plane-spotting live shows. Can the AI replace the camera operator at Manchester Airport? Let's see.

Using it personally, we found it to be a well-built, good all-around PTZ camera, which even has the ability to track airlines. In this video, we give it a proper test in tracking those planes, but overall, we were pretty impressed. The camera also houses a micro SD card, so we could record our 4K footage directly onto the internal SD card, where the high bitrate footage looked great.

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