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Sony Action Cams are ready to stream live internet video
Sony Action Cam owners: if you're eager to share your sporting adventures with the world, your moment has come. The company has just rolled out a firmware update for the AS100V (installable on Macs or Windows) that lets you broadcast live video on Ustream, complete with social network alerts when you're on the air. The higher-end camera also gets a new Motion Shot Mode that composites several photos into one, while burst shooting and self-timer modes are useful for both action-packed images and self-portraits.
Contour returns to the action camera market with some familiar gear
Contour quietly shut down last year, leaving outdoor explorers little choice but to pick up action cameras from GoPro and other rivals. The company found new ownership during that downtime, however, and it's back in business this week with a renewed sense of purpose. For now, the firm is only selling the cameras it had before the lights went out. You can buy the entry-level ROAM2 camera for $200, while the flagship Contour+2 is available for $300. The firm won't lean on its past glories for long, mind you -- it's promising new models later this year. It's too early to say whether Contour can reclaim its place in the point-of-view camera industry that it helped create, but it's good to see renewed competition in a field where the choices have been rapidly shrinking.
Panasonic's HX-A500 wearable action cam serves up 4K video at 25fps
If you don't mind your wearable action cam being tethered to a separate unit for wrangling controls, Panasonic's HX-A500 offers 4K video capture in return. The company touts the camera as the "world's first" option for said resolution, recording the those exploits at 25fps. There's also a 1080p option at 50fps, 720p at 100fps and 480p an a 100fps crawl for judging that swing in time for baseball season. It will also capture up to 30 minutes of video in up to three meters (about 10 feet) of water, should the need arise. Need to get the footage to another device? NFC and WiFi connectivity are built in with compatibility with Ustream for live broadcasts. The HX-A500 carries a similar look to the outfit's HX-A100, but the "main body" now packs a 1.5-inch LCD monitor for keeping an eye on things and tweaking settings. Other notable features include a IPX8 waterproof rating, automatic leveling correction, image stabilization and a variety of mounts to keep the dustproof cam in the right spot for optimum capture. The HX-A500 is set to arrive in May with a £379.99 (around $626) price tag in tow.
Consumers are out, business is in: Looxcie to focus on Vidcie enterprise solutions
Parting is such sweet sorrow. Shed a tear for Looxcie's consumer aspirations, y'all, because the company has decided that the enterprise is now where it's at. After launching its Vidcie business-focused POV camera system at CES, it seems that Looxcie views the b2b brand as its ticket to profitability. Of course, the company will still sell its consumer products, and you folks who bought a Looxcie 3 or HD won't be left out in the cold, as Looxcie will still support those products and honor their warranties. The shift to focus on the enterprise isn't terribly surprising, given the ample and established competition in the wearable camera market. Still, we shall miss Looxcie's lipstick cams gracing our pages, won't you? (Probably not.)
Sony Action Cam update brings live streaming to older cameras this summer
Existing Action Cam owners will net two of the AS100V's banner features through a software update. The most significant addition, live streaming, will enable real-time video uploads to sharing sites like Ustream through a connected smartphone or tablet. Sony's also adding a high-speed continuous shooting mode, letting you snap a "limitless" number of high-res stills with previous-gen Action Cams. Expect both new features to make their way to your compatible shooter sometime this summer.
Sony's latest Action Cam sports splash-proof body, pro features for $300
Sony's targeting amateur shooters and professionals alike with its new HDR-AS100V Action Cam. For consumers, the biggest addition here is the new splash-proof body, which lets you shoot in rain or snow without using the bundled (and relatively bulky) waterproof case. There are also "vast improvements in the optics," according to Sony, including an updated lens with a fixed 170-degree viewing angle (120 degrees with SteadyShot turned on), an 18-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor and new capture options, including 1080/24p, 720/120p or 720/240p video shooting and an ability to snap 13.5-megapixel stills. There's also an integrated stereo mic and an input jack, should you wish to add an external mic. Professional shooters can take advantage of new time-code support when editing XAVC S footage with Vegas Pro, making it easy to merge clips from the Action Cam with content from a variety of other cameras. There's also a new option to shoot at 50 Mbps XAVC S, thanks to the new BIONZ X processor, and a record light up top that makes it easy to confirm that the camera's actually recording. Cosmetically, the AS100V looks nearly identical to its predecessor, with limited on-camera controls and a basic info readout on the right side and SD and Memory Stick Micro storage in the rear, along with USB, HDMI and a mic jack hidden behind a panel at the bottom of the cam. The new AS100V will hit stores in March for $300, or $400 when bundled with Sony's live-view remote. The previous-gen AS30V will remain on the market, albeit with a TBA reduced price. A software update will add livestreaming and a high-speed continuous-shooting mode to both models this summer.
Hands-on with Liquid Image's LTE-capable Ego LS action cam
Liquid Image revealed its 4G LTE Ego LS action cam just hours ago, so we made a dash to take a look for ourselves. In terms of size, the LS is a bit smaller than the popular GoPro cams, but there's no built-in battery and the 1,900mAh cell nearly doubles the thickness of the unit. It's wrapped in a rather dapper matte black soft-touch coating that gives the gadget a nice feel. On the face, there's a display for keeping tabs complete with a red recording light and connectivity indicators. There's a play button up top, with power and connectivity buttons (the cam has both WiFi and Bluetooth options) around to the side. The requisite ports for HDMI, microSD card, USB and connecting to either the aforementioned battery or the 4G LTE module lie on the bottom edge. Meanwhile, Liquid Image has partnered with Verizon for the cellular connectivity bit, which comes at the hands of a clip-in accessory complete with its own 1,900mAh battery to power the streaming. That LTE module will set you back an additional $199 on top of the 200 bones that Ego LS costs on its own and nearly doubles the size (we're talking width here) of the action cam alone. For a look at the whole lot, there's a quick video walkthrough just past the break.
Liquid Image brings LTE to the action cam game with its new Ego LS
Snowy mountaintops and sheer dirt tracks are just a couple of locations fitting for an epic action cam segment, but they're not places you're likely to find a good WiFi connection. Without putting extra hardware at significant risk of destruction, livestreaming just hasn't been possible in many desirable situations. At CES, however, Liquid Image is mixing things up with the introduction of its new Ego LS camera, which we believe is the first to feature LTE connectivity. It's capable of transmitting WQVGA (400 x 240; bummer) video at 30 fps for up to two hours, or still images over 4G. Otherwise, the 8-megapixel cam has WiFi, Bluetooth, and can partner with iOS and Android devices via the Liquid Image app like the outfit's other models. A microSD slot supporting up to 64GB cards keeps you recording at 1080p/30 fps or 720p/60 fps while disconnected, and like other members in the Ego line, it'll be accompanied by various mounts. Two variants of the Ego LS, both with new motion detection and continuous-photo modes, but one with LTE and one without, are slated to launch in June this year with an estimated price tag of $200.
Looxcie 3 gets a new, square design so you can stream video from your kid's chest
Action cams typically go hand-in-hand with the dudebros risking life and limb for adrenaline, and are named to match. Looxcie's target demo's a bit different. Beyond embracing the pun (and creative spelling) at its utmost, the company's new Looxcie 3 aims to get even more wearable with a squarish design that weighs just 1.3 ounces. And if the Looxcie 3's promo shots are any indication, the company's hoping you'll strap this video streamer to your kid's chest and share that whimsy over WiFi (in 480p) live to Facebook. Or record and edit captured 720p video and stills from your smartphone (Android and iOS are both supported). The $100 compact cam supports microSD expansion up to 64GB so you should have plenty of space to keep the cherished memories (or banal moments) stored. You can order the Looxcie 3 now at the link below, but just FYI, the kid leashes are sold separately.
Pyle announces Hi-Speed HD Sports Camera
What good is a hardflip if no one was around to see it? Good news, then, that Pyle has just announced the somewhat self-explanatory Hi-Speed HD Sports Camera for exactly that purpose. The latest entrant into an already fairly busy market. At $99 dollars (please check updates / source), this promises to be one of the more affordable options. As for the specification, we're looking at a 12-megapixel sensor that shoots upto 1080p video with a 120fps (at VGA) slow-mo mode. There's also a 4X zoom feature, which we're assuming is digital. Most notable is the inclusion of a touchscreen LCD for previewing and menu navigation, a feature yet to appear on any of the main competition. Oh, and built in WiFi (with included remote) too. We're unable to say exactly how much of a bargain this is until we see it in action. Something we'll be able to do soon, we hope. Update: The official price information we were given to coincide with the announcement appears to have been incorrect, we apologize for any confusion and are taking this up with the source. Also, the video clip has been removed as was intended as a reference to what a hardflip is, and not to represent sample footage. Update 2: We've now been informed that $99.99 is the correct price, and the Pyle website has been updated to reflect this. Please verify at the source for the latest info.
GoPro reveals Hero3+: smaller, sharper, faster and available now
If you were thinking it's about that time of year that we might see a new GoPro, then you'd be right. The king of the action cams has just announced the GoPro Hero3+. The flagship Black edition is now 20 percent smaller -- no mean feat if you've seen the existing model. There are also improvements to the optics, which GoPro claims gives a 33 percent increase in image sharpness, while reducing artifacts by a factor of two. Feature-wise there's a new 1080 "SuperView" mode which takes footage from 4:3 aspect ratio, and presents it in an immersive 16:9 view. Other improvements include a new auto-low light mode that will adjust the frame rate on the fly, revised audio internals, four times faster WiFi and wireless camera updates via your phone. Despite all of these additions, and the smaller form, it's claimed that your new GoPro will potentially offer up to 30 percent extra battery life, too. The Silver edition gets some love, also, with 1080p now possible at 60fps, and 720 at 120 fps. So, all that's left is for you to get 30 percent better at your daredevil activity of choice for 30 percent longer, and we're all even. The Hero3+ will be available starting this week, with prices starting at $299 for the Silver addition, and $399 for the black. The previous flagships now retail for $329 and $249 respectively.
Sony's Camera Remote API allows WiFi-equipped devices to control its cameras, act as a second screen
This year's IFA has been rather eventful for Sony: the company unveiled a new handset, some interesting cameras and even a recorder that can turn you into the next Justin Bieber. But lost in the shuffle was an announcement that the Japanese outfit's also releasing its Camera Remote API, albeit in beta. Sony says the idea here is to provide developers with the ability to turn WiFi-ready devices, such as smartphones and tablets, into a companion for many of its shooters -- i.e. act as a second display or be able to shoot images / video remotely. The Camera Remote API will be friendly with novel products including the Action Cam HDR-AS30, HDR-MV1 Music Video Recorder and both DSC-QX lens cameras, as well as older models like the NEX-6, NEX-5R and NEX-5T. This is definitely good news for current and future owners of any of the aforementioned, since the new API can certainly add much more value to Sony's cameras via the third-party app creations that are born from it.
Toshiba takes on GoPro with its Camileo X-Sports action cam (hands-on)
We're guessing that a few companies have been eyeing GoPro's position at the top of the action-cam market with envy. That's why Toshiba is launching the Camileo X-Sports, a boxy action camera that strongly takes after that aforementioned leading brand. The small, 94-gram (3.3-ounce) unit comes with a 2-inch LCD display, a 12-megapixel CMOS sensor and the ability to shoot 60fps video. There's a 10x digital zoom paired with an ultra-wide angle lens, micro-USB and mini-HDMI ports and the battery promises to last 1.5 hours when shooting 60fps and over two hours at 30fps. It'll also connect directly over 802.11 b/g/n WiFi to a nearby smartphone or tablet, so you can use the larger device as a viewfinder for your more arty powder shredding montages. The retail package will also come with a bundled waterproof casing, wristband remote control as well as several mounts, and will be available in Europe before Christmas for €250 ($330). Follow all of our IFA 2013 coverage by heading to our event hub!
Sony slims down its Action Cam, intros wearable Live-View Remote (eyes-on)
Sony has released camcorders and cameras for a variety niches here at IFA, including a new HD action cam, the HDR-AS30V. It's immediately noticeable that the second-gen model is 25 percent smaller and 35 percent lighter than the original, making it even less cumbersome when clipped onto a helmet -- especially compared to a GoPro. As far as the layout goes, not much has changed; you'll find USB, line-in and HDMI ports at the bottom, with the power and record buttons still on back. The rear panel also opens up to give you access to a microSD card slot and the battery compartment. The side features the same basic info LCD with two selection buttons, so you'll still make need to make use of its onboard WiFi and a smartphone -- or the new Live-View Remote (details in a bit) if you need a viewfinder. You'll find stereo mics and a fixed Carl Zeiss lens at the front with a 170-degree viewing angle, though you'll only get a 120-degree field of view with SteadyShot enabled. Lastly, there's the obligatory tripod mount at its underside. The new bits are essentially a backlit Exmor R CMOS censor, GPS and NFC. Full HD videos can now be captured at 1080/60p (last year's model topped out at 30p), while 720/120p and 720/60p settings are available for slow-mo videos. As a bonus, it can also take 11.9MP images and shoot at interval timing. Using Sony's PlayMemories Home app, you'll be able to sync up video from two of the new Action Cams, rotate the orientation of your clips, and add overlays based on GPS data.
Garmin prepares for battle with sensor-packed VIRB action cam (hands-on)
There are more than enough action cams on the market, but that's not stopping Garmin from jumping head first into that saturated space. The GPS maker hopes to bring something fresh to the table with its $299 VIRB and $399 VIRB Elite, a pair of ruggedized camcorders that do more than simply snap footage from within a clear protective shell. Both models can shoot 1080p clips at 30fps and 16-megapixel still photos (while recording video) for up to three consecutive hours with one 2,000mAh cell, but they offer a variety of features that some competitors can't match, including a low-power 1.4-inch transflective LCD for navigating menus and previewing footage, optional (digital) IS and the ability to sync up with a variety of other Garmin devices through ANT+. That last feature is perhaps the most compelling here -- VIRB's ANT+ chip lets you add on accessories like a heart rate monitor while also pairing with the company's Fenix watch, logging GPS coordinates and other stats with each captured clip. The pricier Elite flavor brings positioning sensors on board, however, along with an altimeter and WiFi, which you can use to connect the cam to a dedicated Android or iOS app. That software component lets you see a live preview and control basic settings (video start/stop and still image capture) remotely -- eventually, you'll be able to send content from the device to your phone or tablet, though that functionality isn't included just yet. A tiny remote will also be available as an add-on, should you opt to leave your smartphone at home. It's easy enough to operate the water-resistant camera without a remote though, even with it mounted on your helmet or attached to a surf board. A large sliding record button lets you power up and start shooting video right away, even when the camera's turned off. There's no built-in storage, but you can slide in your own microSD card under the battery. The Garmin VIRB ships next month for $299, while its Elite counter part will ship around the same time for $399. Check out that base model, along with some of the many optional straps and mounts, in our hands-on photos just below.
JVC's upgraded GC-XA2 ADIXXION action camera is really, really hard to put down
Look, we all know someone suffering from an insatiable appetite for [insert vice here]. But if you've ever met someone who picked up the OG ADIXXION, you probably understand just how fixated on a single product one can become. Keeping the fix going is JVC, who has introduced the latest -- and perhaps most addicting -- ADIXXION yet. The GC-XA2 is obviously designed to rival anything in the space that GoPro presently owns, boasting a water-, shock-, dust- and freeze-proof enclosure and mounting options galore. Performance improvements in the new model include 1,920 x 1,080 60p/50p Progressive Full HD recording, and 1,280 x 720 high-speed recording at 120fps / 100fps for 4x slow-motion playback. ther upgrades include a brighter and wider-angle optical lens, improved image stabilization, a higher-resolution LCD monitor with auto-off and auto-brightness functions, a higher-resolution image sensor, a higher audio bit rate and better noise reduction. It'll start shipping later this month for a hair under $300... just don't go stealing from your mum in order to finance it, okay?
Sony Action Cam update adds 1080p recording at 60fps, underwater mode
Recording footage with Sony's Action Cam at 1080p garnered video with just 30fps, but a new update for the rugged shooter has bumped that up to 60fps. Thanks to the freshly available upgrade, the camera has also been bestowed with a water mode packing white balance adjustment for shooting when submerged, and a Beep Off option to tweak volume levels for its on / record and settings buttons. Come June, Hirai and Co. will release revamped software that allows users to upload videos via Play Memories without having to disconnect the device, and sell a raft of new attachments for the cam ranging from a dog harness to a surfboard mount. Trek past the jump for the accessory lowdown in the press release, or hit the second source link for the upgrade.
Miveu intros updated X case that turns your iPhone 5 into a rugged POV camera, we go straps-on
We've seen rugged cases for iPhones before, even those that claim to give it action-cam credentials. Miveu rolled up to CES and revealed its latest offering that incorporates a wide-angle FOV lens (much like the Mophie) along with a chest mount strap, updated to fit the latest phone from Apple (they launched one to fit point-and-shoots, too). The idea is pretty simple, of course. Snap your iPhone / camera into the snug protective case, fix it to the chest-strap and then get your action on. Miveu is also keen to point out that its solution means you can capture that sports footage, without having to bring another device along. Of course, you're then relying on the video capabilities of the phone itself, which might not be comparable to dedicated solutions, but it's definitely convenient, and at $80 (or $60 for the point and shoot version), a whole bunch cheaper. Obviously, without too many moving parts, our impressions are based largely on the quality and feel. The case itself seems plenty tough, and we'd have no reservations about putting our own phone in it while out on the slopes / track. The strap part seemed well built, and the guys at the booth had to wear them all throughout the show, so if nothing else, that's testament to how comfortable they are. The lens component, however, is likely the main attraction, as this is what turns it from a regular phone case, into an action cam facsimile. The wider angle certainly makes the footage look more like what you might be accustomed to from a GoPro or similar, and serves the dual purpose of protecting the one on your phone at the same time. The mount also has a tilt-and-pivot mechanism meaning you can flip the camera through 360 degrees, or angle it more directly towards the action. If you fancy getting your phone in on the action, you should be able to do so starting April 1st.
Sony's Action Cam Pet Mount concept may lead to man's best YouTube videos
It's just a concept, sure. But if it means more dog's eye view videos are destined for YouTube, we whole-heartedly support Sony's Action Cam Pet Mount.
Hands-on with Liquid Image's Ego Mini action cam at CES Unveiled
GoPro ain't the only name in the action camera game, and here at CES Unveiled we've just got a look at Liquid Image's latest mountable cam -- the Ego Mini (that's it on the right, pictured next to the first-gen Ego). It shoots 1080p video at 30 fps or 720p at 60 fps, and is WiFi enabled, so you can livestream if hooked up to something with internet access. Obviously it's pretty small and light (as well as waterproof), and we saw it nestled inside a motorbike helmet, and in various mount configurations, like four cams pointing in all directions for 360-degree recording, and two side-by-side for 3D video. In camera mode, it can shoot 12-megapixel stills with a continuous photo-taking mode if you want something in-between full video recording. The Liquid Image app, which has just been released for iOS and will be making its way into the Google Play store at some point in the future, can pair with the cam and solicit the live video view. It can also access data stored on the Ego Mini's microSD card (up to 32GB supported), and upload short clips to social networks. The app also works as a remote control for taking stills and will allow you to change settings on the camera. We saw the app in action briefly, and it worked as described, with only a little lag in the video stream, and pretty good image quality from what we could tell from an iPhone screen. Due to arrive in stores in August 2013, the Ego Mini is expected to cost $200. Check out the PR after the break for more info, and check out the gallery below for our hands-on pics. If you're interested in a more integrated action cam specifically for snowsports, we also took a quick tour of Liquid Image's Apex HD+ goggles (or HD + WiFi depending on your source), which started shipping in November 2012. Follow all the latest CES 2013 news at our event hub. Richard Lawler contributed to this report.
