Smart Eye, a company we've kept an eye on because of their alcohol detection technology that could find its way into work vehicles, has done it again.

Its cameras and software will now fit into rear-view mirrors.

That alcohol detection deployment was slated for Japan first; this new mirror tech starts in Europe. It's not hard to imagine these technologies leaping across the water into pickup truck cabs.

The Driver Monitoring System (DMS) and Occupant Monitoring System (OMS) company has been selected to deliver its technology to three new car models from a major European automotive OEM with a global footprint, which has previously sourced Smart Eye’s OMS software using a different camera position.

"Big Brother" in a new position

The new order is a rear-view mirror program combining DMS and OMS software for three vehicles, with possibilities for further vehicle program extensions. Based on projected product life cycle volumes, the estimated revenue for the Sweden-based firm is SEK 100 million.

Smart Eye’s DMS and OMS software will be integrated into the rear-view mirror. The camera provides both infrared and color images, allowing the software to monitor driver attention while also detecting the presence, position, and activity of occupants throughout the cabin.

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This supports features such as seat belt detection and, God forbid, feet-on-dashboard detection. Not to mention in-hand cell phone use.

Production of the new car models is scheduled to begin in 2029.

“This is our second rear-view mirror program, where our recognized DMS capabilities are combined with occupant monitoring features, creating a cost-effective solution that will score high on Euro NCAP [European New Car Assessment Program] for many years to come,” said Martin Krantz, CEO and founder of Smart Eye.

“We have a strong technology offering no matter which camera placement our customers select. We intend to lead rear-view mirror technology development, and this deal is an important milestone.”