May 2009
Canon launches mobile website
Canon aficionados can now check out whatever Canon gear they are interested in right on their mobile device. The new Canon Mobile Reviews website is formatted specially for mobile devices and provides quick access to descriptions and both positive and negative reviews of just about anything Canon makes. Very handy. -- Posted Wednesday, May 27, 2009 by chb
Sony introduces three new dSLRS
Sony announced three new, easy-to-use α (Alpha) cameras (models DSLR-A380, DSLR-A330 and DSLR-A230), all designed to overcome challenges and intimidation that many customers feel when taking their first steps into DSLR photography – making it easy for newcomers to get the great photos they want, without a steep learning curve. The 10.2 megapixel α230 camera is the lightest, most compact alpha DSLR camera body ever at 15.9 ounces. The 10.2 megapixel α330 and the 14.2 megapixel α380 cameras are also smaller and lighter than their predecessor models (the DSLR-A300 and DSLR-A350, respectively). The α380L, α330L and α230L will cost about $850, $650 and $550, respectively. The L series one-lens kit comes with the SAL-1855 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 standard zoom lens.
-- Posted Thursday, May 21, 2009 by chb
Where GPS is headed: waterproof Garmin 550 with camera
An interesting example of where GPS units are headed are the newly released Garmin 550 and 550t. They are small rugged units for hiking, geocaching and other outdoorsy uses, and include U.S. topo maps, a barometric altimeter, 3-axis electronic compass, a microSD card slot and—for the first time—a 3.2-megapixel digital camera that geotags each picture with the location of where it was taken. Oh, and the devices carry an IPx7 rating, which means they are waterproof. -- Posted Thursday, May 7, 2009 by chb
Pure Digital releases high def Flip UltraHD with larger screen and HDMI interface
Inexpensive high definition video is here, and it is simpler than ever thanks to the new Flip UltraHD camcorder from Pure Digital. The pocket-size UltraHD has a larger 2-inch display, records in 1280 x 720 pixel 720p high definition format, and can now connect to HDTVs directly via an HDMI cable. 8GB of internal memory allow for a full two hours of recording. A rechargeable battery lasts about 2-1/2 hours. Add to that the onboard FlipShare software, and you have an absolutely unbeatable US$199.95 package. [See full review of the Pure Digital Flip UltraHD] -- Posted Saturday, May 2, 2009 by chb