Looking to get into the action of point-of-view video, Sony introduced its Action Cam HDR-AS10 HD video camera with Wi-Fi capability. The compact camera mounts with an adhesive to flat and curved surfaces. This means you can mount it to a helmet, handlebar, ski, snowboard, surfboard, skateboard or other object to capture all the action.
Sony gave some details on the Action Cam back in June. The camera is now ready for its close-up, and available for action.
The Action Cam weighs three ounces, even with its rechargeable battery. Expect the Action Cam to take part in the action, even when there’s water. The point-of-view shooting solution holds its own on the mountain, in the water, on the trails, and wherever you want to capture video. A universal tripod mount holds the camera steady “so you can concentrate on safety and composition while capturing full HD videos,” Sony says in a release.
A Wi-Fi version of the HD Action Cam will be available, the HDR-AS15, which lets users upload video directly from the camera, and works with the free PlayMemories Mobile application. The app lets users share content to a smartphone, and lets users control the camera with any compatible device. This means you can use your iPhone or Android phone as a viewfinder to monitor what’s being filmed.
Both models will come with Sony’s SteadyShot image stabilization, which means that even when you’re jostling around on the trail, the video you capture won’t be so jerky. The camera has an ultra-wide angle Carl Zeiss Tessar lens to capture the action in a 170-degree wide field view.
Five video modes and a class-exclusive 4x slow mode in 720p HD help improve video quality and offer options. Those modes include HD SLOW 2x (1280 x 720, 60p); HD SLOW 4x (1280 x0720, 120p) that shoot slow motion. The camera also supports Full HD (1920 x 1080, 30p), STD HD (1280 x 720, 30p); and SD VGA (640 x 480, 30p).
The video camera captures with a 16-megapixel “Exmor R” CMOS image sensor, which is able to capture low-light footage and improve image clarity and reduce grain.
The Action Cam will have a suite of mounting attachment options. Those include a Waterproof Head Mount Kit, to use with the included waterproof case; a Headband Mount, for the lowest profile solution; a Handlebar Mount, which attaches the camera to the handlebar of a bike or other bar apparatus; a Suction Cup mount attaches the device oon an object or vehicle. The suction cup works with any smooth or no-porus surface.
Sony’s HDR-AS10 sells for $199.99 and the HDR-AS15 for $269.99. The cameras will be available in September with a line of accessories.