For all the functionality baked into today's cameras, they general limit the user to being behind the lens. Casio has announced a new modular camera that avoids this limitation. The Exilim EX-FR10 is designed so that the controller and lens units can be separated, allowing for more versatile shots.
A number of cameras have been launched recently with the aim of allowing users to take selfies more easily, such as the Samsung NX3000. Casio says that this was part of its aim with the Exilim EX-FR10, but it has gone further than simply giving the device a swiveling viewfinder. By removing the constraint of the user having to hold the camera to take a shot, all sorts of other angles and view are possible.
In its default setup, the Exilim EX-FR10 looks like a typical digital camera. It can be used in a conventional point-and-shoot manner, or its viewfinder can be swung out so that the user can take hand-held self-portraits. By pushing a button, however, the controller and lens units can be undocked from each other for remote-controlled shooting.
A variety of straps and attachments are provided with the Exilim EX-FR10 to help the user make the most of its versatility. A neck strap is provided so that the user can wear the camera, and a carabiner strap allows for either unit to be clipped to convenient places such as belt loops. A nut is included for attaching the device to tripods, whilst a multi-angle clip and a belt set allow the camera to be attached or worn in different places, such as on a bag strap or around the user's head.
When separated, the controller and lens units connect via Bluetooth. Users can monitor the lens view via the controller unit, helping them to frame remote shots and direct group shots in which they are included. In addition, both units are splash-proof and dust-proof and the device can can withstand being dropped from a height of up to 2 m (6.6 ft). The camera can capture 14-megapixel stills and can record Full HD video. It has a 1/2.3 in (6.17 x 4.55 mm) sensor.
The Exilim EX-FR10 will reportedly be available from September.
Source: Casio
