Logitech previewed a versatile "show and tell" take on the webcam a couple of months ago, designed to help content creators cover all the angles. Now the articulating Reach camera is taking the crowdfunding route to production.
Though the majority of projects launched through platforms like Kickstarter and Indiegogo tend to be from makers or startups, a number of established multinationals have tested new product waters through crowdfunding campaigns – including Segway, Bose and LG.
For the Reach, Logitech has opted to run with the Indiegogo Enterprise portal that was launched at CES 2016. The device is essentially a hybrid overhead/webcam for content creators, gamers, educators and business professionals that's mounted to a kind of versatile camera boom, and is capable of recording 1080p video at up to 60 frames per second. It sports glass optics, features a f/2.0 aperture, a focal length of 3.7 mm and a field of view taking in 78 degrees, and boasts 4.3x lossless zoom with smart autofocus, plus dual omnidirectional microphones with noise filter are included too.
The StreamCam that sits at the end of a horizontal arm can be repositioned vertically or horizontally using a single push button – with 12.22 inches (31 cm) of vertical travel, and 12.73 inches (32.3 cm) of lateral travel. The Reach comes with a circular base or clamp mount, and supports 360-degree panning. The camera head can also pivot via a ball joint to achieve the perfect angle for footage.
The setup is cabled to a laptop/computer over USB-C, and is reported compatible with most videoconferencing or streaming platforms.
Indiegogo perks currently start at US$259, representing a saving of 35% on the expected retail price. If all goes to plan on the already funded campaign, shipping is estimated to start from July 2024. The video below has more.
Source: Logitech
