Cameras

The guys at PhotoReview have unveiled four new Nikon Coolpix digicams, including the S1000pj—the first to include a built-in digital projector. This backs up earlier rumours about the camera formerly known as the VP650.

The Coolpix S1000pj is the first digital camera with a built-in projector that lets users project photos or movies clips on any flat surface at up to 40 inches in size. A handy projector stand is included, as is a remote control that can be used to operate the projector, release the shutter, and more. This model features an effective resolution of 12.1 megapixels and a 5x Zoom-Nikkor lens with 28mm (equivalent) wide-angle coverage, along with a similar image stabilisation system to the Coolpix S640.

Although a release date is still up in the air, the S1000pj is expected to drop sometime in the near future for an RRP of $699 AUD or $US587 US. That’s all well and good, but is this even a good idea? It’s kind of a throwback to the days when your grandfather would bust out the projector and show home movies in the attic (while wearing a sweater and clenching a pipe between his teeth no doubt). It seems a little redundant to me when you can easily view the files on tv or computer screen, but then again, I was never one for torturing relatives with pictures from my vacation. Check out PhotoReview for details on the entire lineup. [PhotoReview via Nikon Rumors]