Sony HDR-AS15 Action Cam
A look at gadget happenings, as Sony takes video shooting on an adventure, Epson’s new projector transmits HD 3D images wirelessly – whether your device is wireless-enabled or not, and Bandai brings the Tamagotchi into the 21st century with the Tech Pet.
Sony’s new camera for action heroes
Sony first unveiled the new HDR-AS15 Action Cam at IFA 2012 earlier this month and it has now been confirmed for release in Europe in mid-October. The wearable 90g full-HD video camera features a 170-degree wide-angle Carl Zeiss lens and an Exmor R CMOS sensor. SteadyShot image stabilisation helps to minimise blur and there are five recording modes, including two HD slow-motion modes (2x and 4x) for more dramatic action.
The camera is attached using the adhesive mounts supplied and a large record button makes it easy to start filming even when caught up in the action. A waterproof case (included) lets users shoot to depths of 60m, while optional accessories such as a waterproof head mount kit, handlebar mount and wearable headband let users shoot videos in all sorts of scenarios.
The camera is Wi-Fi-enabled and can be controlled using a smartphone or tablet and videos can be transferred wirelessly using the PlayMemories Mobile app.
Epson’s new wireless HD and 3D projector
The new EH-TW6100W from Epson’s range of full-HD projectors is not only Wi-Fi-enabled but also comes with a wireless HD transmitter with five HDMI inputs; so, even if your device is non-wireless, you can still project wirelessly.
The EH-TW6100W features Radio Frequency 3D technology, providing a strong signal for the USB-rechargeable, lightweight Epson RF active shutter 3D glasses supplied. Images in 2D can be converted to 3D with the touch of a button, while 3LCD technology provides vivid images with equally high white and colour light output of 2,300 lumens.
The EH-TW6100W also features automatic colour optimisation, 3D depth adjustment and super-resolution technology and will be available in Europe from October.
Tech Pet: the Tamagotchi that won’t die
Remember when everyone had a Tamagotchi? Well, the same company that brought us the original hand-held electronic pet craze has come up with the Tech Pet – a digital pet for a new generation.
Tech Pet is a free iOS app that turns your iPhone or iPod into a pet dog that, like the Tamagotchi, needs your attention, love and care to stay happy and well. The better Tech Pet is looked after, the more options for play and interaction are discovered.
.jpg "Tech Pet (image via Bandai UK on Facebook)")
Image via the Bandai UK Facebook page
In addition to the app, users can buy the Tech Pet dock separately and turn their device into a four-legged friend. With both the app and the toy, users can do much more, commanding the Tech Pet to walk, wag its tail, dance and ‘sing’ along to music using voice and gesture controls.
Tech Pets can also interact with each other using Bluetooth connectivity (not unlike the Furby, another Nineties toy seeking a comeback). Just like a real pet, the Tech Pet needs its owner to feed and bathe it, keep an eye on its health, provide medicine when needed, and make sure it gets plenty of exercise. These requirements led to many a poorly-cared-for Tamagotchi kicking the bucket, but the good news about Tech Pet is that this electronic pet doesn’t die.
The Tech Pet app will be available in October, while the toy will hit shelves in November.
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