“Looking for Dashcam That Can Record Audio Only (No Video) – Need Firmware Advice”

[maxmed]

Hello everyone,





I’m looking for a dashcam model that I can modify — specifically, I want to disable video recording but keep audio recording active. My goal is to have a device that only captures sound without saving any video, for privacy reasons.





I tried exploring the GS8000L with the Novatek NT96650 chip, but I couldn’t find a clear guide or firmware that allows this kind of customization.





So I have a few questions:

1. Are there any dashcam models known for being easy to modify (either via firmware or accessible OS)?
2. Has anyone here managed to change functionality like disabling video while keeping audio?
3. Is there open-source firmware or tools that work with Novatek (or other chipsets) to enable this?
4. Could someone recommend a simple, older model with available firmware documentation that would be a good starting point?

Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated!





Thank you in advance.

 

[TonyM]

Do you want this device to auto start and stop recording when the car ignition is on?

Where do you intend to mount the device? Is it intended to be visible, or hidden?

You could put a lens cap over the front of most dashcams. I guess that's not an option?

 

[TonyM]

If you can find an original Mobius 1 (not the 1S that has replaced it) one of the options in the setup is to record WAV files rather than MP4 or MOV, so although there is a lens it will only record audio.