Sony launched the new Bloggie Touch today here in the UK and it looks like quite a slick little gadget that will find its way under the Christmas tree this year. Combining a full HD video camera and a 12 MP still camera, it actually looks more like mobile phone than a video camera, with a 3″ touchscreen on one side and a camera lens on the other. It’s quite different from the previous generation of Bloggies, now with a brushed aluminium finish in three colours; black, silver and pink.
In addition to filming in full HD, 1920 x1080, the Bloggie can also record 360 degree video with a special clip on lens. I’ve no idea how this works but it’s quite intriguing. GNC is on the list for a review unit, so when I actually get my hands on one, I’ll let you know. The press release also mentions “freestyle shooting” which apparently allows you to capture video in both landscape and portrait mode. Again, no idea but will let you know.
Details that I do know are that the Bloggie has 8GB storage built-in and should record about 4hrs of video in 1280 x 720, though the battery will run out after about 2.5 hours. There’s a flip-out USB connector plus an HDMI connector for instant playback on a TV. Obviously the LCD screen can be used to review the video and stills but it also sounds like you can use the touch screen to select the photos and movies you want to upload to, say, Flickr, on the Bloggie and then when you actually connect the Bloggie to you PC or laptop, the material is automatically uploaded. That sounds pretty cool and a good compromise on a device that doesn’t have wireless.
You can peruse the full specs on Sony’s website.
It’s for pre-order on Sony’s website for £219 but should be available any day now.