HTC's handheld camera poses challenge to GoPro

The RE's cylindrical design includes a sensor that automatically turns the device on when it is picked up and only two button controls.An app lets wirelessly connected smartphones and tablets stream the footage live and play it back later.Experts said the device would compete with GoPro's products, but that it compared unfavourably to them.However, HTC suggested its gadget had the potential to "change the face of mobile photography"."Combining incredible hardware with unrivalled software, HTC is reinventing the way we think about imaging," said the Taiwanese firm's chief executive Peter Chou."We are taking you out from behind the viewfinder and putting you back where you belong, at the heart of the action."The company also unveiled an Android smartphone with 13 megapixel (MP) front and rear cameras at a New York launch event.HTC recently reported net income of $640m New Taiwan Dollars ($21m; £13m) for its last quarter, reversing a loss from the previous year. However, its sales were lower.No viewfinderThe RE features a 16MP camera and is capable of shooting in 1080p "full high-definition" video at normal speed, and 720p in slow motion.A tap of its shutter button, at its base, takes a photo, while a longer press starts a video recording. A switch on its side allows users to change the video mode between real speed, slow motion and time lapse.It does not feature a screen of its own, but can record to a SD memory card, stream material to a live YouTube channel and send footage to an associated Android or iOS app.The suggestion is that owners use it in situations that they do not need to monitor framing - freeing them up to watch events directly as well as record them - thanks to the inclusion of a lens that captures a 146 degree field-of-view.HTC REThe machine has an IPX7 waterproof rating, meaning it can be submerged in water to a depth of 1m (3.3ft) for up to half an hour.An add-on case can protect it to depths of 3m for two hours, and HTC is also releasing clip-on and suction mounts to allow the RE to be attached to bicycles, cars and other kit."My big question is the form factor," commented Francisco Jeronimo, from the tech research firm IDC."It's weird - it looks like an asthma inhaler."This is a very niche product and it's going to be very difficult for HTC to compete against GoPro."GoPro is a very established brand in this segment and has recently announced a cheaper product that will likely cost less than what HTC will decide to charge for the RE."He added that HTC had told him it planned to pitch the RE to a wider audience than that of GoPro, and would play up its ability to rapidly go from dormant to active states.But he added that in his opinion, a smartphone would suit most people's needs.GoPro recently announced new models, including the top-end Hero4 Black, which can capture video in 4K - four times the resolution of the RE - and is waterproof to 40m, has a 12MP sensor and comes with a remote control. It costs £370.(BBC)Bakudaily.Az