iQ features a compact readout display to keep the driver informed of key events. In normal driving mode, the display shows the phone signal (or Wi-Fi), a location pin indicating GPS is active, and a red dot when recording. During automated events, such as Guardian Mode, a temporary icon will appear. For a full list of icons, please refer to the FAQs in the app or the User Manual, available here.

iQ is powered by your vehicle’s battery and operates in different power states depending on its status. When your vehicle is parked, iQ enters security mode, reducing power consumption. If movement is detected, it powers up and begins recording while ensuring minimal battery drain. If the battery voltage drops too low, iQ will automatically shut down to preserve enough power for starting your vehicle. Nextbase recommends including a battery check in your regular vehicle maintenance to maximize iQ’s performance.

The iQ App is not currently supported on Android Auto or Apple CarPlay due to strict app publishing rules. However, your iQ device has its own LTE connection, eliminating the need for a direct connection to your vehicle’s media unit. Nextbase will continue to monitor Apple CarPlay and Android Auto publishing policies with the goal of adding support in the future.

The iQ App can be installed on mobile devices via Google Play or the Apple App Store, where you can also find a full list of supported devices.

Your iQ solution consists of two parts: the iQ Smart Camera and the iQ App. The iQ Smart Camera has a dedicated LTE connection and can also connect to your home Wi-Fi for faster speeds. This connectivity enables key features such as Guardian Mode and Live View when you’re away. The iQ App functions like any other mobile apps, connecting to Nextbase’s iQ infrastructure via your mobile network or Wi-Fi, allowing you to interact with your iQ Smart Camera remotely.

Videos captured on your iQ can be downloaded to your mobile device through the iQ App and shared using standard sharing options. Videos recorded during an event and stored on your Nextbase Cloud can be shared via a link, which is available in the iQ App.

Any footage uploaded to the Nextbase Cloud will appear in the Events tab of the Library, where you can manage videos (share or delete). For videos uploaded via Witness Mode, a dedicated link to the specific video can be shared.

It is good practice to format the SD card periodically to prevent file system issues. Be sure to copy any videos you want to keep before formatting.

iQ automatically protects important files, such as Smart Sense Parking events. You can also manually protect a file for later review by pressing the padlock button on the bottom of the pendant or using a voice command. Once protected, the file will remain on the SD card longer, as it won’t be overwritten by standard loop recording. However, the retention time depends on the SD card size and the number of protected files. To prevent important footage from being lost, we recommend downloading any files of interest.

Your iQ is designed to automatically protect videos flagged as events. Videos recorded during normal driving that haven’t been protected will be stored in a loop, meaning the oldest footage will be overwritten once the allocated space is full. Your iQ comes with a 64GB SD card, which should be sufficient for most drivers. However, if needed, you can upgrade to a Nextbase 128GB or 256GB SD card for additional storage capacity.