Nikon D700 Announcement Slated for Next Monday [Breaking]

A retailer has confirmed the existence of the Nikon D700, even though Nikon hasn't announced it yet. The webpage for Digital Depot has posted "Nikon will be announcing the new Nikon D700 on Monday 30th June! Check back soon for details, images and specifications.” I wonder if they'll be waiting a little longer than some other retailers for their first box of D700s... [via photography bay]

[Via: Gizmodo, The Gadget Blog ]
[Tag: ]

$179 DXG-567V HD camcorder uploads right to YouTube

Uh oh, DXG's creeping its way up into luxury territory. Earlier this year, we saw the outfit dish out a craptacular $149 HD camcorder, and just a few months back we were introduced to the $169 DXG-569V. Now, it'll take another Hamilton in order to rightfully claim its newest unit, the DXG-567V. The pocket-friendly cam is available in four different hues, ships with rechargeable AA batteries and uploads directly to YouTube and other video sharing sites without much hassle at all. DXG claims that this bugger captures video at 1,280 x 720 (30fps), but even at $179, we have our doubts about the overall quality. Better watch out though, by this time next year you'll see DXG perched up beside Sony, Panasonic and the rest of the respected gang.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: camcorder, cheapcorder, DXG, DXG-567V, handheld camcorder, HandheldCamcorder, hd camcorder, HdCamcorder, youtube ]

Debunk: Nikon "D700" spyshot

Ah, so sorry fakers. Don't you hate it when all your Photoshopping efforts come undone after the original D300 picture turns up? Oh well, D700 dreamers still have the alleged specs and hopes of a possible Monday announcement.




[Via: Nikond700 ]
[Tag: nikon ]

Possible Nikon D700 DSLR Shots Leaked [Rumor]

Could these be actual shots of the upcoming Nikon D700 mid-range DSLR? The spy image and the production shot (pictured after the break) look decent enough, so there is a good chance that they are the real deal. Hopefully, it won't be long before we know for sure. [Nikon Rumors Shot 1 and Shot 2]

[Via: Gizmodo, The Gadget Blog ]
[Tag: ]

Varioptic liquid lenses now shipping in SnakeCam webcam

We've been hearing about how Varioptic's liquid camera lenses would revolutionize cellphones for a while now, so it's a little bit surprising to see the oil-and-water optics pop up in Akkord Electronics' el cheapo SnakeCam webcams first. The 1.3 megapixel S1300 and 2.0 megapixel S2000 cams feature a Varioptic Arctic 416 lens, as well as bendy mount, built-in microphone, and CMOS sensor, and will sell for just $20 per unit -- but we'd imagine that whoever ends up rebranding these will mark that up a bit.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: akkord electronics, AkkordElectronics, liquid lens, liquid lenses, LiquidLens, LiquidLenses, snake cam, SnakeCam, varioptic ]

Ricoh's eye-catching GX200 camera gets reviewed

Easily one of the most peculiar looking digicams we've seen, the GX200 picks right up where the GX100 left off and aims to fill the pockets of those not quite ready for a DSLR. Design wise, reviewers couldn't help but fall in love. Despite the curious build, critics found it to be "a joy" to hold and operate and not quite a burden in their left cargo pocket. When it came time to view results, however, the tone quickly shifted; put simply, the 12-megapixel sensor / processing combination was deemed "poor," once again substantiating the belief that more megapixels isn't always better. To be fair, the EVF and monitor were among the best they had seen, and some of the other minor details were really impressive, but the lackluster image quality easily overshadowed those flashes of brilliance in the grand scheme of things.
[Thanks, RTT]

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: GX200, megazoom, review, reviewed, Ricoh ]

Ricoh's 12 megapixel GX200 for the undecided

So long GX100, hello GX200 and your new 1/1.7-inch 12 megapixel CCD sensor. Ricoh's bridge between point-and-shoot cameras and DSLRs also features new Smooth Image Engine III processing to better control noise, a larger 2.7-inch LCD, and a 5fps continuous RAW shooting mode. The 24 to 72-mm (35mm equiv) wide-angle lens, SDHC slot, RAW image support, thin 25-mm chassis, and removable tilting electronic viewfinder all carry over from the predecessor. Available next month for ?350 (about $689) or ?400 (about $788) if you find that viewfinder a must.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: 12 megapixel,12Megapixel,gx200,raw,richo ]

Logitech's flagship QuickCam Vision Pro is Mac only

Logitech, a name long synonymous with PC webcams, just announced its newest, flagship camera which -- are you ready? -- is Mac-only. A move which, quite honestly, makes us feel, well... dirty. The USB 2.0 QuickCam Vision Pro works with iChat and Skype and features a 2 megapixel sensor, a quick autofocusing Carl Zeiss lens, and the ability to record VGA video at 30fps while mounted to your display or, redundantly, to your MacBook which of course have featured an integrated webcam for the last few years. Hitting shelves across Europe and the US in July for $130. See this chunk of a webcam attached to an Apple Cinema Display after the break.



[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: carl zeiss, CarlZeiss, logitech, quickcam, quickcam vision pro, QuickcamVisionPro, webcam ]

Paul Coudamy's Hard-Wear jacket watches your back when no one else will

Let's face it, the streets are rough these days. And just because someone admits to having your back, that doesn't mean they won't turn and run in the heat of battle. Granted, the very spark that sets off said conflict could be this questionably designed coat, but we digress. Paul Coudamy's Hard-Wear jacket includes a totally inconspicuous camera on the rear which reportedly beams happenings onto a wrist-worn LCD. Not exactly James Bond type material here, but we suppose it'll do for the double-o in training. Take all those orange blocks away and your chances of being looked at would decline remarkably, wouldn't you think?

[Via: Talk2MyShirt ]
[Tag: camera,clothes,clothing,garb,Hard-Wear jacket,Hard-wearJacket,jacket,third eye,ThirdEye ]

Infosys develops 3D cellphone cameras, projectors

We've seen a couple handheld 3D devices, but Infosys just announced that developed a chipset capable of capturing and projecting 3D holograms from ordinary cellphones, and that it hopes to take the tech mainstream by 2010. The system captures a series of 2D images from normal cameras and uses them to develop 3D holograms, projecting received images using a laser projector and micro optical elements. Infosys also had a patent granted on the system required to transmit 3D data over normal telecom networks without clogging them up -- the data is transmitted unprocessed, and the chipsets at either end do the heavy lifting. There's no word on what devices this stuff might appear in, but we're wondering what that laser system is supposed to project onto -- or if we'll have to take up smoking to get our 3D on.


[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: 3d,hologram,holograms,infosys,projector ]

Olympus EVOLT E-520 DSLR gets purchased, sample shots abound

Hey there EVOLT E-520, we nearly forgot you ever existed! Just over a month after Olympus' latest DSLR first broke cover, one particular individual has managed to corral one from an Austrian shop and snap a few stills. Reportedly, he's planning to write up a full review, but judging by the way the initial round of shots went, we're not so sure he's going to keep it long enough for all of that. As Tam Hanna so bluntly put it, the "autofocus system of the E-520 is the worst [he had] ever seen on a digital camera." Of course, we suppose it could grow on him with time, but just look at the shots in the read link and you'll probably agree that said scenario isn't very likely.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: DSLR,E-520,E520,EVOLT,first look,FirstLook,Olympus,pics,pictures ]

Canon Rebel XS previewed, Canon's lightest DSLR ever

Canon's aiming for an all-new, entry-level DSLR class with the Digital Rebel XS / 1000D, so don't expect to have your mind blown by the specs here, but that said, Canon isn't just pussyfooting around in this market segment. LetsGoDigital calls the XS the XSi's "twin brother" on the outside, with only minor differences between the two like the smaller 2.5-inch screen on the XS. On the inside, the XS is fairly similar to the XTi, with a 10.1 megapixel resolution, but Live View, DIGI III and auto ISO to keep things interesting. The 17.7 ounce weight is the lightest ever for a Canon DSLR, with a tiny battery and only SD card memory, and the price should be similarly miniscule when the XS lands this July.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: 1000d,canon,digital rebel,digital rebel xs,DigitalRebel,DigitalRebelXs,preview,xs ]

Sony HDR-CX12 AVCHD camcorder captures smiles and scowls for $900

Sony just outed its newest HD camcorder dubbed the HDR-CX12. We're looking at 1,920 x 1,080 AVCHD video from a 10 megapixel ClearVid 1/3.13-inch CMOS sensor, BIONZ image processing, image stabilized Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T 12 optical zoon lens, a 2.7-inch LCD, 5.1 surround sound mic, and Memory Stick PRO Duo (4GB Memory Stick PRO Duo (Mark2) in the box) storage. It's not the world's smallest, but it's only the size of a soda can, AKA, pop can for you mid-westerners. This camcorder also packs Sony's Smile Shutter tech which automatically throws the shutter (even when in standby) when your subject smiles... or grimaces at having to stand around taking yet another family photo. Smiles can even be prioritized by children or adults. $900 starting tomorrow or early August for brick-n-mortarers.
Update: Another glamor shot and now video of Smile Shutter working on the Japanese CX12 posted after the break.

[Via: Akihabara News ]
[Tag: avchd,bionz,camcorder,cx12,hdr-cx12,smile shutter,SmileShutter,sony ]

Aiptek's HDV21X brings 1080p HD video to the sub-$200 Wal-Mart market

Aiptek is making a habit of bringing portable HD recording to some seriously affordable levels. The HDV21X Action HD 1080p High Definition Camcorder w/ Optical Zoom (known as the AHD Z500 Plus in Europe) records H.264 HD video (1,440 x 1080, 16 x 9) on a 5 megapixel sensor at 30 frames per second and 720P at 60 frames all for a paltry $199.99 at your local Wal-Mart. Expect to get up to 8 hours of 1080p video on a 32GB SDHC card. As for still images, the Z500 shoots at 8 megapixels and even sports a macro mode for both video and still. Also on board is a 3x optical zoom, CIF mode for easy YouTube uploads, a 2.4-inch swivel-mount TFT LCD, and component outputs for all the HD goodness. To top it all of, its diminutive size is worth mentioning: 4.4 x 2.75 x 1.3-inches.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: ahd z500,ahd z500 plus,AhdZ500,AhdZ500Plus,aiptek,wal-mart,youtube ]

Panasonic's HDC-SD100 and HDC-HS100 AVCHD camcorders, now with extra MOS

Ready for some new terminology? Good, try on "3MOS" -- Panasonic's newest sensor adaptation which, judging by machine translated text, is a trio sensors capturing twice the light of a single CMOS of the same 1/6-inch size. Think 3CCD applied to CMOS sensors. The result is said to be superior image quality and impressive low-light recording capability -- twice the sensitivity of its own 3CCD camcorders thanks to what Panny calls its new "heavy lifting iA" enabling them to shoot in a mere 2 lux of available lighting. That's just a glimpse at what you'll find inside the solid state HDC-SD100 (supporting up to 32GB of SDHC) and the HDC-HS100 hybrid offering both SDHC and a 60GB hard disk for storage. These 1080i AVCHD camcorders also features Panasonic's improved optical image stabilization, a 12x optical zoom, 5.1-surround mic, and HDMI-out.The ?130,000 (about $1,205) SD100 and ?150,000 (about $1,390) HS100 should hit the Japanese retail block on July 12th.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: 2 lux,2Lux,3mos,avchd,cmos,hdc-hs100,hdc-sd100,japan,lux,panasonic,precision ia,PrecisionIa ]

JVC Everio HD10, HD30 and HD40 hands-on

We got a quick look at JVC's new AVCHD camcorders today, the GD-HD40, GZ-HD30 and GZ-HD10. Of note, the HD40 comes complete with a dock for extra hookups like FireWire, and the HD40 and HD30 can shoot video in MPEG-2 for higher quality and easier editing. JVC has done some serious work on noise reduction on all of the cameras, but from the samples shown, it comes at the cost of detail -- some of the vids we saw looked more like watercolors or 3D renders than true video. Hopefully that's something you'll be able to configure to your liking, and we're glad JVC is leaving MPEG-2 on here to avoid compression that might exacerbate the problem further. That said, most users are going to be very pleased with the kind of color and low noise they can get at night or in badly-lit rooms. The cameras are certainly small for their feature sets, but at about a pound apiece they feel pretty heavy for their size. Otherwise the build is standard JVC fare -- not too fancy, not too plain. We also got a chance to peep some over JVC's other new consumer gear, so check it out in the gallery below.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: avchd,camcorder,features,gd-hd40,gz-hd10,gz-hd30,hands-on,jvc ]

Samsung SC-HMX20C HD camcorder gets reviewed

If you were even the slightest bit intrigued by our hands-on with Samsung's SC-HMX20C HD camcorder, you may be interested in seeing what we thought about it after a good bit of shooting. That's right, the full review is ready and waiting over at Engadget HD. So, it's a date?

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: camcorder,features,flash camcorder,FlashCamcorder,hd camcorder,HdCamcorder,review,reviewed,samsung,SC-HMX20C,sdhc ]

Sony Ericsson's 8.1 megapixel C905 breaks free

No surprises here but at least Sony Ericsson's C905 Cyber-shot is now official. As a camera, we're talking Xenon flash, face detection, image stabilization and 8.1 megapixels crammed into a tiny sensor of unspecified make or dimensions. As a phone we're looking at quad-band GSM (9-hours talk / 380 hours standby) and tri-band UMTS/HSDPA 850/1900/2100 on the C905a worldphone variant. It also comes packing an auto-rotating, 2.4-inch scratch-resistant QVGA display, aGPS with Google Maps, A2DP stereo Bluetooth, TV-out, 2GB of included Memory Stick Micro (M2), and WiFi with DLNA support when this slider is loosed upon the globe in Q4.

[Via: Esato ]
[Tag: 8.1 megapixel,8.1Megapixel,breaking news,BreakingNews,c905,cameraphone,cyber-shot,sony ericsson,SonyEricsson ]

JVC's trio of AVCHD 1080i Everio hard disk camcorders

JVC's disk-based Everio lineup of HD camcorders are being met by a trio of newcomers this morning. The 120GB GD-HD40 ($1,300) and 80GB GZ-HD30 ($1,000) offer 10- and 6-hours of full 1,920 x 1,080 / 17Mbps AVCHD recordings, respectively, from a 1/3-inch, 2.68 megapixel CMOS sensor -- a first for the previously all-CCD based family. They can also record in an editing software-friendly 27Mbps MPEG-2 TS format if desired. The AVCHD-only GZ-HD10 ($800) model scales back the disk to 40GB, the lens, LCD, and sensor to achieve the lower price tag. All three offer 10x, Konica Minolta HD optical zoom lenses, an accessory shoe, up-converted 1080/60p HDMI out, and a microSDHC slot. Available in August, that's when.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: avchd,camcorder,everio,gz-hd10,gz-hd30,gz-hd40,hd10,hd30,hd40,jvc,mpeg-2 ts,Mpeg-2Ts ]

Nikon readying D90 for launch?

We don't have much to go by, but the image above image might just be the Nikon D90, successor to the well-received D80 -- then again, it might be a photoshop, too. (The more we look at it, the more the area in/around the D90 badge looks pretty sloppy.) According to Nikon Rumors, it might be due as early as tomorrow; we'll let you know if the kit goes from rumor to reality.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: d90,nikon,rumor ]

First-person RC car to revolutionize sibling rivalries

This certainly isn't the first time anyone has mounted a video camera to an RC car and taken it for a spin, but the new system from Fat Shark to do so is certainly the most comprehensive yet. A set of wireless VR goggles provide the display, and there's a built-in accelerometer in the goggles to control the tilt and pan of the camera installed on the car. You can buy the system with the car, or purchase the components separately to hook onto a plane or for some other nefarious purpose. No word on price, but we would've traded our NES and two good tubs of Legos for a shot at this growing up. Somebody has to keep that up-to-no-good sister of ours and her dastardly playmates in check. Video is after the break.


[Via: Autoblog ]
[Tag: first person rc car,FirstPersonRcCar,fpv rc,FpvRc,rc,rc car,RcCar ]

Barely believable Nikon D10 images surface

You know the drill: open wide and ingest some salt before proceeding further. All done? Alright. The above image is clearly pretending / hoping / wanting to be the supposedly forthcoming Nikon D10, but we're not so sure what we're seeing is the real deal. Granted, rumors have been flying that a so-called mid-range full frame DSLR would be surfacing from the company, but even if said unicorn is eventually dubbed the D10, will it really look like this? What say you, eagle-eyed readers?

[Via: PhotographyBay ]
[Tag: camera,D10,dslr,full frame,full-frame,FullFrame,nikon,rumor ]

Aiptek's HDV21X brings 1080p HD video to the sub-$200 Wal-Mart market

Aiptek is making a habit of bringing portable HD recording to some seriously affordable levels. The HDV21X Action HD 1080p High Definition Camcorder w/ Optical Zoom (known as the AHD Z500 Plus in Europe) records H.264 HD video (1,440 x 1080, 16 x 9) on a 5 megapixel sensor at 30 frames per second and 720P at 60 frames all for a paltry $199.99 at your local Wal-Mart. Expect to get up to 8 hours of 1080p video on a 32GB SDHC card. As for still images, the Z500 shoots at 8 megapixels and even sports a macro mode for both video and still. Also on board is a 3x optical zoom, CIF mode for easy YouTube uploads, a 2.4-inch swivel-mount TFT LCD, and component outputs for all the HD goodness. To top it all of, its diminutive size is worth mentioning: 4.4 x 2.75 x 1.3-inches.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: ahd z500,ahd z500 plus,AhdZ500,AhdZ500Plus,aiptek,wal-mart,youtube ]

Canon EOS Rebel XS lands, shoves XT aside

Goodnight XT and XTi, hello EOS Rebel XS -- we've been expecting you. Companion to the more recent XSi new DSLR has a larger 2.5-inch screen 10 megapixel sensor, live view display, 3fps burst shooting, DIGIC III image processor, seven point AF, and a bundled EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS lens. Unfortunately this is only going live in Japan today -- we'll be stuck waiting until next month for the US launch, which will supposedly place it in the $600-800 price range (we know, it's wide, we've got very little to go by right now). One more shot of the rear after the break.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: breaking news,BreakingNews,canon,dslr,eos rebel xs,EosRebelXs ]

Creative's Vado Pocket Video Cam gets reviewed

With the Flip Mino just hitting the scenes (and skyrocketing up Amazon's sales charts), there's no doubt that Creative's fighting an uphill battle with the Vado Pocket Video Cam. Designed to compete in the YouTube-friendly pocket camcorder sector, this critter was actually said to be built a bit studier than the Flip and pack a more luscious display to boot. Reviewers also found the audio quality to be (expectedly) subpar, and while video quality was decent for a sub-$100 device, the compression monster managed to make ho hum results downright ugly when clips were uploaded to the 'Tube. Still, for the market this one's aimed at (read: a market without videophiles), it's not a half bad addition to the cargo pocket arsenal -- just don't go expecting the world and you'll be fine.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: camcorder,cheapcorder,creative,Pocket Video Cam,PocketVideoCam,review,reviewed,vado,youtube ]

Oregon Scientific's ATC5K and ATC3K action cameras are ready for, you know, action

The new ATC5K and ATC3K, Oregon Scientific's action-packed followup to its ATC2K camera from 2006, bring a few common-sensical upgrades to the waterproof, shock resistant original. They still shoot VGA, but the 3K has new 48 degree field of view and a new CMOS sensor, while the 5K bumps it 53 degrees and a 1.5-inch LCD. The cameras run on AA batteries and can handle up to 4GB SD cards, but where these cheap-cams really "shine" is the multiple included mounting attachments for recording your various extreme sporting exploits. Or when you really just need to set yourself on fire and put it on YouTube -- that works too. The ATC3K will be out in July for $150, with the ATC5K following in August for $200.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: atc3k,atc5k,oregon scientific,OregonScientific,video camera,VideoCamera ]

Microdia beats Samsung to market with world's first 64GB CF card

At long last and a full year and a half after Samsung first touted a 64GB Compact Flash card, Microdia steps onto the scene with the world's first product. Almost. By the end of June, Microdia will begin shipping its 64GB XTRA ELITE CF card to the photog masses. The UDMA card brings a sustained read / write speed of 300x or 45MBps making it perfectly suited to high-burst rate DSLRs. Now if only we had a price to calculate the cost of our new 192GB SSD. Full press release after the break.
PMA, Brisbane, Australia, June 6, 2008, - MICRODIA Ltd. (MICRODIA), a world leader in flash memory technologies, has announced that mass production of the world's first 64GB CF card will commence in June and has been accepting orders from around the world. The first shipment is expected by the end of June.
At 64GB, with a sustained read/write speed and data transfer rate of 300X or 45MB/sec, the XTRA ELITE CF card is making it the highest capacity and fastest data transfer compact flash technology available.
MICRODIA's XTRA ELITE CF cards are designed to provide the world's best solution for professional photographers and photo enthusiasts and with capacities from 4GB through to the industry leading 64GB, which can store over 19,000 high resolution images* .
As the elite flash memory cards available in the world, the MICRODIA XTRA ELITE UDMA CF cards offer the ultimate in performance, said Louis Leung, Founder and CEO of MICRODIA.
The MICRODIA XTRA ELITE 64GB CF card provides an excellent storage solution for high-profile professional photographers through its reliability, durability and speed.
Capturing, viewing, uploading and transferring large image files is now faster, simpler and more convenient for users.
Being first to market with the 64GB CF is yet another example of MICRODIA's strength in flash memory technology.
MICRODIA continues to place heavy emphasis on R&D to develop the industry's highest capacities and fastest speeds, exemplifying our core philosophy of helping users get the best optimised data flash storage performance for all their digital devices, Mr Leung said.
Mr Leung said MICRODIA chose Australia in which to launch the 64GB CF card as an overall demonstration of its commitment to its emerging markets.
We have only been in Australia for a matter of weeks, and decided the best way to demonstrate our capabilities and intent to offer the world's best flash memory products here was to launch this product at Australia's leading professional photography trade show, PMA.
As a new brand to Australia, but as the world's second largest flash memory company in terms of production capacity with a 17 year history, globally launching the 64GB CF card in Australia at PMA will give us tremendous early momentum in this market.
"It will help position the MICRODIA brand in the minds of Australian consumers and retailers and provide them with a broader choice of flash memory cards," he said.MICRODIA launched its full product range in Australia at last week's CeBIT trade show in Sydney, and National Sales Manager Lee Jefferies said the initial response from the trade, the public and professional photographers had been strong.
The most common response from people we spoke to was "is a 64GB CF card even possible?'" we took great pleasure in telling them that not only was it possible it was actually available, but only from MICRODIA, Mr Jefferies said.
MICRODIA's ultra high speed XTRA ELITE cards are built with the company's proprietary EPM (Enhanced Processing Management) Technology for improved efficiency and performance, thereby delivering some of the fastest sustained read/write speeds in the industry.
XTRA ELITE cards are also based on Single Level Cell (SLC) NAND Flash technology, which stores one bit per cell and uses an optimized controller combined with large block NAND technology to achieve high data transfer rates. Compared to Multi Level Cell (MLC) NAND Flash technology, which allows each memory cell to store two bits of information, SLC NAND Flash technology provides excellent performance well suited for professional use especially those with demanding speed requirements.
With a solid commitment to R&D and continued technical advancements, MICRODIA will continue to play a major role in the flash memory industry.
About MICRODIA
MICRODIA is a global leader in flash memory technologies and the world's 2nd largest manufacturer of flash memory cards. With its heavy emphasis on R&D, MICRODIA leads the way in bringing the latest and most advanced flash memory technology to market ahead of the competition. Since its inception in 1991 as a magnetic data storage media manufacturer, MICRODIA has earned a reputation for quality, reliability and technical excellence. Today, the company provides a full range of Flash Memory Data Storage Solutions, Portable Multimedia Devices and Wireless Connectivity Solutions. MICRODIA's global coverage extends to many corners of the world and continues to penetrate existing markets and expand into new territories. For additional product information, please visit MICRODIA's website at www.microdia.com.

[Via: PC Authority ]
[Tag: 300x,64gb,cf,compact flash,CompactFlash,microdia,udma ]

ATC5K: We're Way Too Chicken to Use this Helmet Camcorder

We're not really that extreme. Wait...we're on the internet and can be whoever we want to be...We're so fucking XTREME. When we skydive without parachutes into our kayaks, we always tape our adventures on the Oregon Scientific ATC5K camera! Sure, its 640 x 480 resolution at 30fps doesn't sound amazing, but it can withstand rain and snow while recording our adventures on an SD card. And once we've exhausted our supply of 50% Red Bull/50% Mt. Dew out of our CamelBac, we can relive the adrenaline rush by watching our adventures on the ATC5K's 1.5-inch screen!! (A rarity in helmet cams.) For the rest of you couch potatoes, the ATC5K will be available for $199 this August.

[Via: Gizmodo, The Gadget Blog ]
[Tag: ]

Minox Rolleiflex AF 5.0 digicam takes you back -- way back

Uh, this is a Minox? It's not that we can't read labels, but considering the outfit's yawn-inducing offerings of late, we're a little stunned to see something so irresistible come out of its doors. The June-bound Rolleiflex AF 5.0 is a "fully functioning, high precision replica of the world famous Rolleiflex 6x6 camera (scale 1:2)," and just like its inspiration, it produces square photographs and boasts a functioning hand crank. Thanks to modern technology, this edition steps it up with a 5-megapixel sensor, LCD monitor and a miniSD slot. Word on the street puts the black version at €299 ($461), while the entirely more stylish red model will demand €30 ($46) more. Still cheaper than an antique, we'd wager.

[Via: LetsGoDigital ]
[Tag: digicam,Minox,retro,Rolleiflex,Rolleiflex AF 5.0,RolleiflexAf5.0,vintage ]

Thief steals Eye-Fi-equipped camera, proceeds to give himself away

It was inevitable, really. We've seen quick-footed thieves swipe GPS units that eventually led to their arrest, a bank robber who didn't even bother to close his clamshell while holding up the joint and now, we've seen the Eye-Fi card really pay off. According to the outfit's PR firm Red Consultancy, one particular vacationer had her entire stash of camera gear (over $1,000 worth) stolen while taking a load off in Florida. Upon returning home and checking things out, she noticed that all of the snapshots taken prior to the theft were uploaded, and upon closer inspection, she even noticed a clear shot of the remarkably idiotic crook. After syncing up with the boys in blue, all of the gal's equipment was eventually returned, and some semblance of normalcy was finally returned. How's that for a feel good story, huh?
[Image courtesy of Al]

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: camera,criminal,dumb criminal,DumbCriminal,eye-fi,illegal,larceny,stolen,theft,theif ]

Pure Digital Flip Mino review round-up

While it certainly didn't appeal to everybody, Pure Digital's Flip Video Ultra cheapcorder nonetheless found quite the audience, which has not surprisingly led to some raised expectations for the company's just-released follow-up, the Flip Mino. Judging from the first batch of reviews, however, it looks like Pure Digital has mostly managed to hit the mark ($30 premium notwithstanding), even if it still likely won't be getting folks to ditch their more full-featured cameras. Among the first out of the gate with a review was Laptop Magazine, which put the Ultra and Mino head-to-head and found that Mino won out in terms of design, specs, and power options, although the Ultra hung on to an edge in video quality, which it says remained "consistently brighter," particularly in low-light conditions. The Wall Street Journal's Mossberg Solution (not Moss himself) didn't have as much of a problem with the video quality (given the expectations), but it did find that while the Mino's touch-sensitive buttons look great, "they aren't as functional as they needed to be." Wired's Gadget Lab also had some quibbles about the hard to press buttons, but that wasn't enough to stop it from handing out an initial rating of 8 out of 10 (a more in-depth review is promised for later), with the cam's slimmer design and ability to get video up onto the web quickly winning it high marks. If that still hasn't made up your mind, you can find some sample videos taken with the camera and plenty more details by hitting up the links below.
Read - Laptop Magazine ("the Mino won three out of the four rounds," but not the biggest category: video quality)
Read - Mossberg Solution ("looks much cooler than older models")
Read - Gadget Lab (8 out of 10)

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: camcorder,cheapcorder,flip mino,FlipMino,pure digital,PureDigital,video camera,VideoCamera ]

Flip Mino: A Smaller, Better Flip Camcorder for $180

The Flip Mino, a pint-sized but more powerful companion to the so-easy-your-grandma-will-be-a- YouTube-star Ultra, is now official. We already saw the $180 mini-cam in a fuzzy picture, but now we know that although it carries 2GB of on-board flash for 60 minutes of VGA-quality recording like the Ultra, it's 40% smaller—a scant 4” x 2” x 0.6”. The Mino distances itself further by adding a Li-ion battery and a flat back-panel with touch-sensitive buttons (rather than the Ultra's AAs and push buttons). Check back shortly for a full hands-on; meanwhile, there's a spec-laden fact sheet and a gallery's worth of more shots after the jump.GALLERY

Flip Mino Front - Black

Flip Video Mino Camcorder Details:* Amazingly thin, pocket-sized camcorder
* 40% smaller than Ultra Series. Dimensions : 4” x 2” x 0.6”. Weight: 3.3 oz.
* 2GB of on-board flash memory records up to 60 minutes of video
* Sealed, internal rechargeable lithium ion battery that recharges through built-in USB arm
* Flat back-panel with touch-sensitive buttons
* No Glare display screen (1.5”)
* TV quality video
* Instant playback, pause, fast forward/rewind, and delete features
* Available in black and white models
* Connects to TV for instant viewing
* Built-in high-speed software enables instant video sharing from any PC or Mac:
o Save and organize videos on computer
o Email videos and video greeting cards
o Publish videos instantly on video sharing sites like YouTube, MySpace, and AOL
o Capture still photos from video clips
o Create custom movies with your own music
o Make your own DVDs and have them shipped anywhere in the worldCamcorder Available June 5, 2008Nationwide at Amazon.com, BestBuy.com, Circuit City, Costco.com, Sears, Target.com, TheFlip.com, Walmart.com, and other national retailers. Available at additional retailers Fall 2008.Camcorder Suggested Retail Pricing:60 minute model: $179.99

[Flip Video]

[Via: Gizmodo, The Gadget Blog ]
[Tag: ]

ASUS' UFOTO UF735 digiframe doubles as secondary PC display

Finally, a little innovation in the midst of watered-down, me-too digital photo frames. Here we have the UFOTO UF735, which exhibits a 7-inch 800 x 480 resolution display, USB 2.0 connectivity, headphone jack, 128MB of built-in memory, integrated speakers, a multicard reader for handling JPEG / BMP / GIF / MP3 files and your choice of silver, pink or blue frame colors. Beyond those yawn-inducing stats, you'll find a swank sub-display function, which enables owners to use it as a secondary display (SideShow, anyone?) on their PC. As is customary for ASUS, it's not doling out pricing / release information just yet, but this one may actually be worth paying attention to when it finally lands.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: ASUS,computex,computex 2008,Computex2008,digiframe,digital photo frame,DigitalPhotoFrame,secondary display,SecondaryDisplay,sideshow,sub-display,UF735,UFOTO ]

RCA intros three new Small Wonder budget camcorders

We've got your summer crapcamcorders right 'ere -- three new RCA Small Wonder cams to make your Flips flop. Check 'em out:

• Small Wonder MyLife, EZ200 (black) - 1.5-inch flip-out display, microSDHC with with 1GB microSD that does up to 30 / 60 minutes in high quality and web quality modes, $89 and due this summer
  
• Small Wonder Pocket, EZ205 (white) - 1.5-inch flip-out display, microSDHC slot with 1GB microSD that does up to 30 / 120 minutes in high quality and web quality modes, $100 and due this summer
  
• Small Wonder Traveler, EZ210 (green) - 2.4-inch QVGA display, SDHC with 2GB SD card that does up to 60 / 240 minutes in high quality and web quality modes, $150 and due this summer

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: EZ200,EZ205,EZ210,rca,small wonder,small wonder mylife,small wonder pocket,small wonder traveler,SmallWonder,SmallWonderMylife,SmallWonderPocket,SmallWonderTraveler ]

Imaging Source Astronomy Cameras for gazing at the heavens

Stellar photography seems like a wondrous thing: you and a loved one on a starry night taking beautiful images of the heavens -- before making out. Unfortunately, anyone who has tried it knows it's more often a frustrating exercise of fiddling with exposure and aperture settings on your SLR while it hangs precariously off the side of your telescope, held in place only by a flimsy adapter ring. The Imaging Source has a simpler option, a series of digital cameras designed for slotting into your scope like an eye piece, capturing the night sky at up to 60-minute exposures over USB or FireWire. The range starts at $390 for a monochromatic VGA model, going all the way up to $870 for color and 1280 x 960 resolution. Not cheap, but it's probably a lot less than you paid for the equatorial mount on your new reflector.


[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: astronomy,astronomy cameras,AstronomyCameras,imaging source,ImagingSource,space,telescope ]

Creative's Vado Pocket Video Cam unboxed on video

There's honestly not a lot of mind-blowing material in the video posted up after the jump, but it definitely delivers as advertised. You see, you've got Creative's Flip Video-combating Vado cheapcorder all wrapped up, and over the course of 317 seconds, it manages to slip outside of its shell and get handled. Initial impressions are dished out too (hint: they're surprisingly positive), so don't skip out on hitting the read link while your cursor is down in the general vicinity.

[Via: Engadget ]
[Tag: camcorder,cheapcorder,creative,pocket camcorder,PocketCamcorder,unbox,unboxed,unboxing,vado,video ]