Yes, the instant print camera popularized by the one and only Polaroid is back and in a new form factor for 2015. The long awaited Socialmatic doesn't use film but rather snaps and shares your photos via the web and social media options along with delivering nifty adhesive prints of your photos. Wrapped in an Android based OS that shares to Facebook, Twitter and of course Instagram, I'm interested in seeing how people respond to its release come January.
Having never owned a Polaroid myself or even shot and developed film in my life, this type of item is intriguing to me as a photographer. Its solid image quality paired with instant sharing via an Android based OS built into the camera is pretty slick. Not to mention, the bonus of being able to print and plaster some fun stickers of my work around is just plain fun - something professional photographers often miss when shooting full-time. Products like this that are simple, fun and that just bring a pure enjoyment out of photography excite me and I am thrilled to see where this product sits in the marketplace. At $299 it's priced a bit high compared to its competitors, but I am betting the Socialmatic will sell well with the Polaroid name attached.
A full list of specs and product shots are below for you that love the tech side of things.
Sharing your feelings with the world using Mood Assistant™
- 14 Megapixel Forward-Facing Camera; 2 Megapixel User-Facing Camera
- Socialmatic Network Compliant (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc)
- 4GB Memory, Expandable to 32GB
- 4.5-Inch Full Color LCD Touchscreen
- Stereo Speackers and a microphone
- GPS, WiFi and Bluetooth
- Remote Printing Capabilities
- ZINK Zero Ink printing technology
- 2″x3″ Zink Instant Filters feature a sticky back for easy posting on most surfaces
- Rechargeable lithium-ion battery
- Box Includes: Socialmatic, ZINK Photo Paper, Charger, USB Cable, Manual
With the trendy, Instagram-like form factor and a decent spec list, I can see this going out to the much younger photographer or amateur shooter. The price tag of $299 is high but it's an overall a solid camera that brings back the familiarity and fun of the first Polaroid to a new era. Check out more at the link below.
[via Socialmatic]
What's the size of the sensor?
2in X 3in size print - that' a noticeable shortcoming for those of us that remember the Polaroid 'One Step' size instant film. I want to like this, but at this price level I'll need a larger final print before I'd buy.