Alongside the Desire EYE, HTC also announced its action camera in New York. What looks like a GoPro killer or at very least a GoPro alternative, is a small, handheld camera that works as a standalone device, as well with Android and iOS devices.
The HTC RE is a 16-megapixel shooter that uses Sony’s DSC sensor to take still pictures and videos. Although, the RE camera isn’t really made for extreme sports — like GoPro — it could be used for recording one’s “light” acrobatic exercises, bike rides and so on. In fact, with water-proof accessory, it can shoot video under the water.
It includes a slow-motion mode and time-lapse mode to make for some cool videos (and photos). Here are 3 things to know about the HTC RE:
1. Specs
- Camera: 16MP, 1/2.3″ CMOS sensor, ultra-wide angle 146° lens (f/2.8)
- Memory: 8GB microSD included (support for up to 128GB of additional storage)
- Connectivity: Wi-Fi (802.11 a/b/g/n), BLE (Bluetooth 4.0)
- Video recording: 1080p, 30fps FHD video; 720p, 4x slow motion video; time-lapse video recording
- Audio: HD microphone, speaker
- Durability: IP57 Dust & Water Resistant, IPx7 (body), IPx8 (with cap)
- Compatibility: Android 4.3+, iOS 7 or later
- Sensors: Grip sensor, G-sensor
- Misc: 1?4″ tripod connection, micro USB
- Battery: 820 mAh which is good for 1,200 16MP photos, or 1 hour and 40 mins of continuous FHD video recording.
- Size: 96.7 x 26.5 mm, weight: 65.5 grams
2. Accessories
HTC also unveiled a series of accessories to make it more fun to use the RE camera. These include:
- Lanyard with waterproof cap which turns the RE camera completely waterproof. We’re not sure whether this cap is sold separately or will be included with the RE.
- RE Suction Mount – creates a stable base on any flat surface such as a window, in a car, on a table, and so on. This accessory will go for $24.99.
- RE Head Mount – includes a headband with clip-on for the RE camera. Price: $19.99.
- RE Clip-On – with this accessory, you can clip the RE to your shirt pocket, backpack, and so on. The Clip-On costs $14.99.
- RE Bar Mount – allows attachment of the RE camera to a bike, motorcycle or even a baby stroller. The adjustable clamp fits any handlebar or round tube, and will be sold for $19.99.
3. Pricing and availability
In the U.S. the HTC RE camera will cost $199. It will launch later this month through Best Buy and HTC’s own online store, and eventually hit AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon and Amazon.com. Across the pond, Three and EE said they will start selling the RE “very soon.” The price in the UK is set at £169.99. And we assume other countries will follow shortly…