Swarovski AX VISIO - When “Smart” Binoculars Get a Downgrade

Swarovski AX VISIO

The Swarovski AX Visio Smart Binoculars are promoted as cutting-edge optics — the “world’s first smart binoculars” — and their specifications reflect that status. Among the headline features is a built-in camera that, according to Swarovski’s own published technical data, captures 13‑megapixel images (4208×3120 pixels). Many early units did exactly that.

However, after updating my unit to the current firmware (v1.3.5), I discovered that every image exported via the Swarovski Outdoor App now measures only 8 MP (around 3400×2550 pixels), not the 13 MP promised in the specification.

When I queried this with Swarovski Customer Services, I was told the reduction results from a new process introduced in the firmware: every image is now automatically rotated and cropped for horizon correction. This happens whether or not there is a horizon in the frame, and there is no option to disable it. As a result, the majority of images are cropped unnecessarily, reducing image dimensions and file size by default.

This approach raises several concerns:

• The effective resolution of the camera has been downgraded below its published specification.
• Horizon correction is applied indiscriminately, with no user control. For me at least this is unnecessary, I can easily straighten an image if I need or want to.
• Swarovski has said only that an option to restore 13 MP capture “may or may not” be introduced in future updates — leaving customers without clarity.
• Owners who have not updated their firmware continue to enjoy true 13 MP output, while those who updated have effectively lost part of the performance they paid for.

In my opinion, the standard image output should remain 13 MP by default, and horizon correction should be a selectable feature, not a mandatory one. Customers also deserve a clear answer as to whether Swarovski will restore full-resolution capture in a future update.

Until that clarity is given, I would advise AX Visio owners not to update their firmware unless they are fully aware of the resolution downgrade and willing to accept it. There does not appear to be any way to reverse the process.

While my dealings with Bruce Dingwall at T4 Cameras in Swindon have been very positive — he has handled this issue fairly and professionally — Swarovski’s handling of this firmware change is disappointing. Reducing a flagship product’s performance without warning, while still advertising outdated specifications, undermines customer trust.

For a premium device aimed at serious enthusiasts, Swarovski should offer transparency, a choice, and a way for users to regain the full performance they paid for.

Updated: 7th August 2025

Following a letter to Stefan Schwarz, CEO, Swarovski Optik I this morning received a very helpful and positive communication from Katrin Kuprian, Customer Service Manager, Swarovski Optik. Based on this I am optimistic that the full 13MP functionality of this unit will be restored and I am delighted that Swarovski Optik have listened to my concerns and responded to additional customer feedback positively.

Dear Sir

My name is Katrin Kuprian, I am Customer Service Manager for SWAROVSKI OPTIK at our headquarters. Together with our Product Manager for the AX Visio and our Marketing and Sales Director, I looked at your case and the mentioned update, and I would like to personally respond to your letter.

First of all, we would like to thank you again for your detailed feedback regarding our AX Visio and the latest software update. We at SWAROVSKI OPTIK are constantly striving to further improve our products and services. Your input is therefore truly appreciated and helps us to do so.

As previously communicated, the decision to implement automatic horizon correction was based on feedback from a wide range of users. Our goal was to enhance usability and image quality across various use cases. That said, we fully understand your valid concerns about the limitations this feature may introduce in specific scenarios. We’re pleased to inform you that our development team is already working on a solution that will allow users to deactivate the horizon correction if desired. This adjustment will also restore access to the camera’s full resolution of 13 MP.

We believe this upcoming update will strike a better balance between user preferences and technical optimisation, ensuring a more flexible and satisfying experience for all users.

Thank you again for your constructive feedback and continued support. Should you have any further questions or suggestions, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Sincerely, Katrin Kuprian Customer Service Manager

Well done Swarovski.