Nikon debuts hands-free media center for your head
(Credit:
Nikon)
Has Nikon gone into the portable entertainment space? Come December 12, the camera manufacturer will be unleashing two multimedia playback headsets that mark its entry into a brand new genre.
The Media Port UP 300 (4GB) and the higher-performance 300X (8GB) work in tandem with Apple iPods and come with built-in Wi-Fi capability. Demo corners have apparently been set up in Tokyo for passersby to try out the headgear, which comes with a built-in screen for video playback/streaming and Web surfing. If this smacks of the Apple-friendly Myvu Crystal video playback glasses, you're not far wrong.
Despite this virgin offering, the Nikon pedigree should offer assurance of the quality behind the optics. Specs-wise, the rechargeable batteries deliver up to 120 minutes of video or 270 minutes of music. But what's really, really nifty are the embedded motion sensors for hands-free operation, which involves moving the head up or down, left or right for playback control. If anyone's passing through Tokyo and got to sample the UP, do share your experience. Another nice touch for bespectacled users: the UP comes with a high eyepoint and diopter adjustment.
There's just one little catch. Even if you're ready to cough up 69,800 yen ($680) for the basic edition, you'll have to befriend a Tokyoite, since the UP Store will deliver only within Japan.
(Via Crave Asia)
