Gadget Tech: Polaroid Cube
Have you been looking for a camera more versatile than a smartphone but not as extreme as a GoPro? The ultraportable Polaroid Cube might just be the perfect middle ground. Described by its creators as “an action camera for the rest of us,” this 1.5-inch 6-megapixel camera can withstand all sorts of beatings when recording up to 90 minutes of 1080p video underwater with a waterproof case or while magnetically mounted on bike handlebars.
The Cube isn't much more than what you see. It consists of little more than a camera lens and one button. The wide-angle lens has a 124-degree angle of view, so you get a lot of the scene you're shooting. The body is shock-proof and weatherproof, so a little rain or snow won't hurt it but you wouldn't want to submerge it without the waterproof case.
With the edge of a coin you can remove the small circular cover on the back that's covering the microSDHC card slot (none are included) and Micro-USB port for charging, transferring video and photos, and setting the camera's date and time. You'll also find a switch for selecting your recording resolution: 720p at 30 frames per second or 1080p at 30fps.
On top is one big button, the camera's only control. Press it for a few seconds to turn it on and off. When on, press it once and it'll snap a 6-megapixel picture. Give the button two quick presses to start recording and once more to stop. That's it, you've now mastered using the Cube.
The Polaroid Cube has a design that will get attention. It's pretty incredible that this little box has a camera, battery, and room for everything else it takes to capture HD video. This is a camera you toss in your bag or attach to yourself or your bike, skateboard, and so forth, so you can capture hands-free video for sharing online.
