HTC on Wednesday announced the RE camera, a periscope-shaped 16MP GoPro competitor that records 1080p video and timelapses. It can also record HD slow-motion video at 1/4 speed.
The device includes a 146-degree wide-angle lens and image stabilization software, and is built with a waterproof design.
HTC doesn’t intend to directly compete with the action and sports segment though. “Because we don’t see many people wanting to walk around life with GoPro’s on their heads, we see a massive opportunity for a new kind of device for the rest of us,” HTC America President Jason Mackenzie said. Think of it as a modern version of the old Flip video cameras.
The RE camera is always on, and activates by simply holding the camera thanks to capacitive sensors on the case. You can then just tap on the shutter button to take a picture, or long press to record video. Pressing the only other button on the body will activate the slow motion mode.
The RE app works with both Android and iOS devices, where your photos and videos will be automatically viewable. You can also use your device as a viewfinder, as the RE doesn’t have a screen of its own.
The camera comes in white, teal, orange and navy blue and will be available for $199 at recamera.com starting November in the US.
See also: HTC introduces waterproof Desire Eye smartphone with 13MP camera on the front and back | HTC announces collaborative video app Zoe is available for Android phones now and iOS this fall
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