Tobii Launches 'Webcam Eye Tracking' for Research

This is a new, software-based research solution that turns standard webcams into eye trackers for research purposes. By integrating with the analysis software 'Tobii Pro Lab,' researchers can conduct eye-gaze studies more easily without the need for dedicated hardware.

Tobii, the global leader in eye tracking and attention computing, has officially launched its new solution, 'Webcam Eye Tracking.'

This software-based approach enables researchers to collect eye-gaze data using standard webcams. It aims to support easier research execution while facilitating studies involving a wider and more diverse participant pool.

### Expanding Research Scope and Data Collection in Real-Life Environments

The software-based approach allows researchers to collect eye-gaze data online through the webcams embedded in participants' own PCs. This broadens the scope for participant recruitment and helps reduce the operational burden of conducting experiments.

Furthermore, because behaviors on screen can be captured in environments participants use daily, the solution supports research in conditions closer to real life.

Gunnar Troili, Senior Vice President of Product & Solutions at Tobii, stated:

"Webcam Eye Tracking further expands our research solutions portfolio. It provides a new option for research areas that do not require high-performance dedicated eye trackers, making it easier to conduct research in remote environments. At the same time, the fundamental principles of eye-tracking research—such as structured study design, controlled data collection, and systematic analysis—are maintained."

### Validation by Researchers

This solution was developed based on Tobii Nexus technology.

A research team at Uppsala University in Sweden validated its utility, confirming its performance in studies involving numerous adults using AOI-based (Area of Interest) attention measurement, including preferential-looking tasks.

Kim Astor, a postdoctoral researcher in the Department of Psychology at Uppsala University, noted:

"I was surprised at how ready for research Tobii Nexus was, even beyond my expectations. Webcam Eye Tracking is an important advancement in eye-gaze research."

### Availability

At launch, 'Webcam Eye Tracking' is available through the 'Tobii Pro Lab Webcam Stream Edition' for remote studies. Development is also underway for 'Local Webcam Eye Tracking' for use in labs and traditional environments, with a planned release in 2026.