What is it?
The world's first digital binoculars with full HD video recording capability, says Sony. Say hello to the DEV-5.
What's special about it?
Carrying multiple pieces of equipment can be hassling. So the idea behind the DEV-5 is to have it all in one very nice package. Besides being binoculars with an additional digital zoom which has a magnification range of 0.9x-20x, the DEV-5 can record 1,080p videos, and in 3-D if you prefer. You can also capture 3-D images, each up to 7.1 megapixels.
With everyone jumping onto the 3-D bandwagon, it might seem like Sony's attempt at joining the party. But if you think about it, binoculars are already stereoscopic in nature — so the 3-D feels more like a natural have than a gimmick. There is also an on-board GPS receiver that automatically geotags video clips as the user travels. Tagged clips and images can be viewed after shooting, on online maps with compatible software. Most of the controls are mounted on the top for easy operation even with gloved fingers, says Sony, perfect for hard-core adventurers, while dual buttons are provided to start recording instantly with either hand. The company promises up to three hours of 2-D recording on a single charge.
Launched in the US late last year, early reviews have pointed out that the DEV-5 is rather bulky and weighs more than a kilo. So aspiring film pirates, you can stop reading now.
For the rest of us, this one looks like a great gadget to have if you are outdoors a lot. Yes, outdoors. For anything else, especially city use, observe you might incur the wrath of the piracy police.
When is it available and for how much?
The Sony DEV-5 is now available at all Jumbo Electronics outlets in the UAE for a slightly hefty Dh6,999.
