What other data will it collect from the port and forward via the link to the phone and futher upstream through the app?

I guess it can be said that the device needs to know when the car is in reverse gear. Personally I hate these rear view cameras that decide for you when you need them and have no way to turned on manually.

I would much prefer more control and less info leakage potential.

I also wonder how frequently would one have to carefully clean the camera lenses and solar panels for it to work, them being situated where they are. What's up with all those devices being designed to operate only on dry sunny days?