boAt Enters Dashcam Market with Hive Series Starting at Rs 2,499

boAt, one of India’s most recognized consumer technology brands, has officially stepped into the automotive accessory space with the launch of its Hive Dashcam series. It feels like a natural progression, honestly. After dominating the audio and wearable segments, the brand is now exploring road safety tech.

The entry into this new category comes with a campaign titled ‘AVOID DASH DASH,’ a phrase that cleverly captures a very real and very familiar problem on Indian roads: traffic disputes that often spiral into loud arguments instead of calm, fact-based conversations. With this launch, boAt introduces three models: the Hive Dashcam F1, Hive Dashcam M1, and Hive Dashcam E1. Each one is positioned to deliver reliable video evidence, but at different price points to suit varying needs.

Key Takeaways

• boAt launched three dashcam models: Hive F1 (Rs 9,990), Hive M1 (Rs 4,499), and Hive E1 (Rs 2,499).
• The top-end F1 model features 4K recording, dual cameras, and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).
• All models support smartphone app connectivity and loop recording.
• The ‘AVOID DASH DASH’ campaign focuses on using video proof to settle road accidents.
• The products are available on Amazon, Flipkart, and the official boAt website.

‘AVOID DASH DASH’ Campaign Highlights Real-World Road Conflicts

The campaign film centers on a situation most Indian drivers have either witnessed or experienced themselves. A minor collision at a busy intersection quickly turns into a heated argument between a man and a woman. The man loudly blames the woman, leaning on stereotypes about women drivers. It is uncomfortable to watch, but also quite realistic.

The tone shifts when the woman calmly pulls out her phone and plays back dashcam footage. The video clearly shows that the man used the wrong indicator before the collision, establishing that he was at fault. The argument dissolves almost instantly.

This storyline reinforces the brand’s broader message: on Indian roads, truth often depends on evidence. A boAt spokesperson noted that traffic disagreements frequently escalate because both parties hold different versions of the same event. The Hive Dashcam series, in that sense, is positioned not just as a gadget, but as an objective witness that can help drivers navigate such moments with more confidence and less chaos.

Hive Dashcam Series: Models, Pricing, and Specifications

The Hive Dashcam range has been designed to address multiple budgets without compromising on core functionality. While each model differs in features, they all revolve around the same idea: reliable recording and accessible evidence.

Hive Dashcam F1 – Rs 9,990

The flagship Hive Dashcam F1 offers dual-channel recording. It combines a 4K front camera with a 1080p rear camera, allowing comprehensive coverage of both the road ahead and activity behind the vehicle. For drivers who prioritize detail, 4K recording can make a meaningful difference, especially when identifying number plates or subtle movements.

The F1 also integrates Advanced Driver Assistance Systems, including lane departure warnings and forward collision alerts. These ADAS features are designed to provide real-time assistance, which could be particularly useful during long highway drives.

Additionally, the device uses a Sony STARVIS sensor for improved low-light performance. This ensures clearer footage at night or in poorly lit environments, which, realistically speaking, is when visibility often becomes a concern.

Hive Dashcam M1 – Rs 4,499

Positioned in the mid-range category, the Hive Dashcam M1 records in 2K QHD resolution. It features a 140-degree wide-angle lens, capturing a broader view of the road. This wider field of vision may help in documenting side-lane movements or unexpected entries from adjacent vehicles.

The M1 also includes GPS-based speed and route tracking. This functionality can be useful not just for evidence in accidents but also for maintaining driving logs. It adds another layer of context to recorded footage, which some users may find reassuring.

Hive Dashcam E1 – Rs 2,499

The Hive Dashcam E1 is the entry-level option, priced at Rs 2,499. It records in 1296p HD resolution and is clearly targeted at first-time dashcam buyers or those seeking a basic yet dependable setup.

Despite its lower price, it still includes essential features such as loop recording and automatic emergency triggers. These ensure that critical moments are saved and protected from being overwritten, which is arguably one of the most important functions in any dashcam.

Connectivity, Storage, and Parking Surveillance

All three Hive models support smartphone app connectivity via Wi-Fi. Users can view, download, and share footage directly from their phones without removing the microSD card. In practical terms, this reduces hassle and makes the entire process more intuitive.

Parking surveillance is another standard feature across the lineup. Using motion detection and built-in G-sensors, the cameras automatically begin recording if they detect movement or impact while the car is parked. For many urban car owners, especially in crowded residential or commercial areas, this could provide an added layer of reassurance.

In terms of storage, the devices rely on microSD cards. The Hive Dashcam F1 and M1 support cards up to 512GB, allowing extended recording capacity before older footage is overwritten through loop recording.

Why Dashcams Are Becoming Essential in India

Dashcams are increasingly viewed as a practical safety tool rather than an optional accessory. Road conditions in India can be unpredictable. Traffic density, sudden lane changes, and minor scrapes are common enough that disputes are almost inevitable.

Video evidence plays a crucial role in verifying insurance claims and protecting drivers from false accusations. In many cases, it can significantly reduce the time and stress involved in resolving such situations.

With the Hive Dashcam series, boAt expands beyond its traditional portfolio of audio products and wearables. This move into automotive safety solutions suggests a broader ambition, perhaps a recognition that consumer tech today extends well beyond personal devices and into everyday mobility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Where can I buy the boAt Hive Dashcams?

A1: You can purchase the Hive Dashcam F1, M1, and E1 on boat-lifestyle.com, Amazon, Flipkart, and at select retail stores.

Q2: Do these dashcams record when the car is parked?

A2: Yes, the Hive series features intelligent parking surveillance. It uses motion detection and G-sensors to record clips if it detects bumps or movement around your parked car.

Q3: Does the camera work at night?

A3: The higher-end models, like the F1, use Sony STARVIS sensors specifically designed to capture clear video in low-light conditions.

Q4: How do I view the recorded video?

A4: The dashcams connect to a smartphone app via Wi-Fi. You can view, download, and share the footage directly from your phone without removing the memory card.