Remember the Flip cam? Well, it’s dead (Thanks much, Cisco). The handy mini videocam was a popular device for video shooting and sharing, before the onslaught of high resolution smartphone cameras swept the market. Guess what, the market for a portable video camera isn’t quite dead yet, at least not according to Canon. The leader in digital imaging has just released the LEGRIA Mini, a V-log(video blogging) camera that clearly sits in a new category within the LEGRIA family.
The LEGRIA Mini features Canon’s superior optical technologies and also has built-in Wi-Fi capabilities for convenient file transfer and sharing. It’s the first video camera to feature a built-in ultra-wide angle lens and stand for hands-free shooting. For users seeking for more conventional distortion-free shots, they can switch to a close-up view at the touch of a button.
The LEGRIA Mini utilises the same imagining engine used in pro camcorders – a 12MP high-sensitivity CMOS sensor and latest DIGIC DV4 image processor. Even at 25Mbps, the camera maintains superior quality video recording of 1920 x 1080 at 25p.
The little wonder doesn’t just capture high quality video, it captures high-quality sound through its built-in stereo microphone. Sound can be optimally adjusted by selecting appropriate Audio Scene Select modes.
The LEGRIA Mini comes equipped with the HS system, enabling it to capture good images even in low-light conditions.
Perhaps the biggest selling point of the LEGRIA Mini is its size, boasting a unique flat design that is easy to carry around, and also emphasises on the hands-free concept, using its unique built-in stand. The mobile mini cam measures 76 x 22 x 96mm and weighs just 160g, and comes built-in with the uber flexible 2.7-inch Vari-angle LCD electrostatic touch-screen monitor.
Built-in Wi-Fi capabilities allows easy transfer of videos recorded in MP4 format to social networking websites via mobile devices. Also, the LEGRIA Mini can be mounted at a distance and controlled remotely via the CameraAccess companion app.
The camera supports slow motion (1/4x and 1/2x) and fast motion (2x and 4x) recording, internal recording, video snapshot and touch decoration.
Pricing and Availability
LEGRIA Mini is available in Malaysia from mid of September onwards and is priced at RM999 (SRP).
Initial Impressions
It’s opportunistic (and somewhat brave) for Canon to re-enter a market that was believed dead after the Flip cam fiasco. Whether the attempt to revive the market will prove a successful move for Canon remains to be seen. Nothing beats a dedicated device, though, so perhaps Canon has a fighting chance to capture the market left vacant by Flip cam and the likes.
Would you buy a separate video capturing device now you’ve got that 13MP (and more) smartphone camera?
