The Raspberry Pi AI HAT+ is the newest addition to the Raspberry Pi AI lineup, offering up to 26 TOPS of compute power. It enhances AI processing with two models: a 13 TOPS version with the Hailo-8L accelerator and a 26 TOPS version featuring the Hailo-8 accelerator.

Both models seamlessly fit with the Raspberry Pi HAT+ specification, automatically switching to PCIe Gen 3.0 mode to utilize the full potential of the Hailo-8 accelerator, according to the announcement. The 26 TOPS model allows users to run more complex neural networks in real time and supports multiple networks simultaneously, enabling tasks such as object detection, pose estimation, and segmentation from a single camera feed.

 

 

Unlike the Raspberry Pi AI Kit, which uses an M.2 connector, the AI HAT+ integrates the Hailo accelerator directly onto the main PCB, simplifying setup and improving thermal dissipation. This enables the AI HAT+ to efficiently manage demanding workloads.

Both versions are fully backward compatible with the AI Kit, ensuring that neural network models compiled for the Hailo-8L will run smoothly on the Hailo-8. The rpicam-apps in Raspberry Pi OS also natively support the AI module, using the NPU for post-processing tasks.

Raspberry Pi AI Kit
(click image to enlarge)

Further Information

The Raspberry Pi AI HAT+ is available in two configurations: the 13 TOPS model, priced at $70.00 (£64.80), and the 26 TOPS model, priced at $110.00 (£101.90), through distributors such as Pimoroni.