Last year’s Webbie line of camera/camcorder hybrid devices has been reborn as the “Bloggie,” which are new devices and change in focus for Sony in the low-budget, yet above average quality personal imaging device category. This is a product aimed towards people who want to not form over a ton of money, but have a fun, high quality option to enrich the whole “share my life” process people do on Facebook, Twitter, and other social media avenues. The new MHS-PM5 ($170) and MHS-CM5 ($200) include many of the same features and shooting options found in more expensive cameras — such as an integrated CMOS sensor and image stabilization, but is easy to use with the ability to easily upload content to popular video sharing websites. Both devices have the capability to capture 1920×1080/30p high-definition MPEG-4 video and shoot 5-megapixel photos all on a Memory Stick PRO Duo, Secure Digital (SD), or SDHC storage card. Built-in Face Detection makes the content creation process easier by recognizing and enhancing faces through automatic exposure correction.
Also, both devices feature a built-in USB arm for quick charging/data transfer and include Picture Motion Browser Portable software (Mac/PC compatible) which makes it easy to manage or upload content to video-sharing websites.
Features unique to the MHS-CM5 (pictured above) are slight in comparison to the PM5, but some may prefer the addition of HDMI output for viewing photos and high definition clips on your HDTV, and a 5x optical zoom lens on a “pistol-grip” body with large flip-out 2.5” LCD screen. Here’s another angle:
The PM5 has an 4x optical zoom lens on a vertical lightweight body that slips easily into a pocket or purse and SteadyShot image stabilization that ensures smoother footage. The screen is only slightly smaller at 2.4″ LCD, but can do full-screen playback in landscape format. The PM5 is also available in four stylish colors including dark purple, blue, pink, and white. We also see a listing for a PM5 bundle package, MHS-PM5K ($190), with an interesting lens that lets you capture 360-degree videos and includes a 4GB Memory Stick PRO Duo card. We have a shot of that device below:
We’ll have to test this lens out at CES!
