Philips launches five new photo frames

 

Gallery

Posted on 24 Nov 2009 at 15:02

Philips is introducing a new range of five photo frames plus an easy to use online gift service, just in time for Christmas.

Only one has a 7in screen (the SPF2017) while the other four have 8in displays (the SPF4008, SPF5008, SPF7008 and SPH8208). All five have Philips' image processing technologies to improve image quality, while the SPF7008 and SPH8208 add Bluetooth for easily transferring photos from mobile phones.

Buy any of the new frames from the Philips Online Shop and you can pre-load images and customise the frame by engraving a message, adding a card and including a 'gift' delivery box.

The simple-to-use and free gifting service gives customers the option of four ways to create the ultimate personal gift including pre-loading photos from their PC, adding a personalized gift card, engraving a personal message on the frame and, finally, delivery in a distinctive gift box.

Oddly, all frames have an 800x600 pixel resolution, which is mismatched with the 3:2 aspect ratio which most digital cameras use to take photos. However, this isn't unusual for digital photo frames, as we've seen plenty with 4:3 aspect ratios. All five have Philips'
RadiantColor system which allows low-resolution photos to be expanded to full screen. It does this by extending the colour at the edges of the image to the sides of the screen, eliminating black bars - an idea that's clearly inspired by Philips' own Ambilight technology found on its HD TVs.

An automatic slideshow feature is also common throughout the range as is Auto Orientation which automatically recognises landscape and portrait modes and ensures photos are correctly displayed.

In addition to memory card slots for just about all types of memory card, the new frames have internal memory. The SPF2017/4008 and 5008 have 512MB and the SPF7008 and SPH8208 have 1GB ??" enough to store 1,000 images. The flagship SPH8208 also includes a docking station and a two-hour built-in rechargeable battery.

We're pleased to see a programmable on/off timer in all models, which means you can save power by having the frame on only at certain times. The SPF5008 and 7008 go further still by adding an ambient light sensor, reducing energy consumption by up to a third.

Prices will range from around £70 for the 7in model, up to £140 for the SPF7008, and will be available in Argos, John Lewis, Amazon and Marks & Spencer.

Author: Jim Martin