Samsung PL90 takes cue from Flip with own USB

Samsung tackled a longstanding problem with compact cameras today by adding a new entry-level model, the PL90. Borrowing a cue from Cisco's Flip cameras and Samsung's own pocket camcorders, the PL90 has its own swiveling USB plug. The connector not only eliminates the risk of losing a USB cable but, as it uses a full USB jack, can charge the camera's battery without needing a separate AC adapter.

As a camera, the PL90 shoots at 12.2 megapixels and has support for full scene detection, face detection with smiles and blinks, and a self-portrait feature that will trigger an audio alert when the photographer's face is in the frame. Video is basic, however, with just VGA (640x480) as an option. A 4X lens provides a modest amount of true optical zoom.

The camera design will cost little and should be priced at $150 when it reaches the US in September.

By Electronista Staff