14 DAY TRIAL // Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft has announced today the expansion of its LifeCam line of computer webcams with the introduction of the new LifeCam Cinema, a device that has been specifically designed to provide consumers with a choice for recording HD 720p videos. The new cam can be easily connected to any computer system and comes with a couple of features that are designed to improve the quality of the videos for home PC users.
The LifeCam Cinema is reportedly the first to deliver support for true 720p video recording, featuring built-in technologies that allow it to record at 30fps. Unlike the majority of consumer webcams available on the market, the new product from Microsoft is clearly designed to provide users with support for high-definition resolutions of 1280 by 720 pixels. With the increasing popularity of video websites such as YouTube and Hulu, the new LifeCam Cinema fits the requirements of those users who like to record themselves and post the videos over the aforementioned websites.
Among some of the features that have been enabled on the new webcam we need to highlight the glass lens, auto focus, 4x digital zoom and a top-mounted, digital, noise-canceling microphone. Designed to connect to the user's computer system via a USB 2.0 interface, the LifeCam Cinema has also been featured with the ClearFrame technology, which will reportedly enable the webcam to deliver smoother, more detailed videos.
The product is compatible with Microsoft's own applications, including Windows Live Messenger, Windows Live Movie Maker and Microphone Live Photo gallery. Behind the microphone, the camera also sports an integrated Windows Live call button, which will more easily allow you to make Internet phone calls, using the aforementioned application.
The cam is compatible with Microsoft's latest operating systems, including the upcoming Windows 7 OS, and is expected to become available on September 9, for about US$79.99.
