Sony unveils rugged POV action camera

Posted on 27 Jun 2012 at 09:55, by Gareth Halfacree

Sony has offered a first glimpse at its upcoming POV action camera, designed as a rugged video capture device suitable for mounting on handlebars, helmets and even for use underwater.

Designed to compete with the likes of the Go Pro Helmet Hero, Sony's as-yet unnamed product offers a wealth of technology from its larger camera models including SteadyShot image stabilisation - something likely to come in handy if the camera is used for sports footage capture - and an Exmor R CMOS image sensor behind an ultra-wide angle Carl Zeiss Tessar lens.

According to Sony's teaser release, the camera features high-definition video capture - although the company has yet to confirm whether that's 1080p Full HD or the lower-quality but still technically high-definition 720p - and a ruggedised body with no on-board display. A single button at the rear starts and stops recording - with a lamp indicating when recording is active - while a hold button prevents accidental button presses. A small LCD at the side of the camera provides feedback on battery level and storage space available.

The camera will come equipped with a multi-purpose mount which can adhere to helmets, handlebars, goggles and other surfaces. Sony has indicated that an optional waterproof casing will also be available to purchase. So far, however, Sony has not indicated to what depth the casing will operate. A stereo microphone is included at the front of the camera.

Full specifications of the device are not yet available, with Sony keeping quiet on battery life, recording times and pricing along with a planned launch date.