14 DAY TRIAL // We talked about the Socialmatic camera so long ago that we almost forgot it even existed. Well, technically it only existed on paper back then. But now, it’s a reality. And it’s hitting the shelves this winter.
Polaroid Socialmatic is what a Polaroid camera should have been from the get-go: thin, ultra-portable, with a huge viewfinder that doesn’t force you to squint through a hole, connected (so you can instantly share your works with the world), and packing awesome filters and moods, to capture that perfect moment just the way every amateur photographer deserves.
Joint venture
The camera used to be marketed mostly by Socialmatic, but that was before Polaroid finally worked out the kinks involving manufacturing and advertising. With the camera now ready, Polaroid is doing the honors on its web site.
According to the well-known imaging company, the Socialmatic camera “combines the nostalgic appeal of vintage Polaroid instant print cameras with the ability to share using the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi and Android interface.”
Not only does the thing come with its own Android OS, but it also prints 2"x3" photos instantly on ink-free paper with ZINK (Zero Ink) technology. The photos reportedly come out instantly and smudge-proof. They are also water- and tear-resistant, according to Polaroid.
You can connect with your favorite social apps to share your photos instantly, including Instagram, and if there’s no Wi-Fi in range you can use Bluetooth to pair Polaroid Socialmatic with your smartphone. The Mood Assistant and the personal QR code show the camera’s feelings, both physically and online.
Specs and price
To get one thing out of the way, we’ll have you know that the Polaroid Socialmatic isn’t cheap. It sells for $299.99 (€242) over on Amazon, and it’s currently only available for pre-order. The estimated shipping date is winter 2014, which is certainly disappointing, but at the same time we don’t imagine Polaroid sending out these things post Christmas.
For that price you get a 14MP Frontal Camera/2MP Rear Camera, a 4.5" Touchscreen, 4GB internal storage, stereo speakers (apparently it shoots video too), GPS, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, a frontal LCD with Mood Assistant A.I., LED Flash, instant filters courtesy of Socialmatic themselves, 2"x3" Zink Instant Filters, remote printing capabilities, TF/Micro SD card slot, and support for the Socialmatic network (obviously). Hit up Amazon to place your pre-order now, but don’t forget to also leave your impressions with us in the comments section below.
