Casio has just revealed a new line of action cameras that are shock-resistant, waterproof, dustproof, and low temperature-resistant.
The Japanese electronics company said in the official announcement that the tough and rugged G'z Eye cameras are designed specifically for filming extreme sports like BMX, skateboarding, snowboarding, and surfing, all in harsh conditions. The first out is the GZE-1.
The new action camera comes with a super-wide-angle lens that could capture a still image at 190.8 degrees and a movie at 170.4 degrees, allowing it to deliver realistic images against wide background. It shoots photos at six megapixels and videos at 1080p at 30fps and 480p at 120fps. It could also film at dramatic slow motion to highlight critical moments and tricks.
With these specifications, GZE-1 is not exactly the most efficient action camera, but its protective features make it among the toughest, as well as easiest to use given the fast-paced and rough nature of extreme sports.
While its name is more in line with Casio's sturdy smartphones, its design was patterned from the brand's iconic G-shock watches. GZE-1 is waterproof up to 50 meters underwater. It is shock-resistant, and can withstand a fall as high as 4 meters. It can perform well in extreme temperatures, up to -10°C. Filming on dirt roads also should not be a problem, as it is dustproof to the IP6X standard.
Its rugged look is made more for efficiency than just physical appearance. Its bumper protectors are meant to protect the lens and buttons against drops or strong impacts. They also guide the fingers to the camera's buttons, which are carefully spaced around the camera specifically designed to fit the palm.
A new application called G'z Eye connects the camera to the smartphone. Those who have a Casio Pro Trek Android Wear can also use it as viewfinder.
GZE-1 is available in Japan for 46,000 yen. No word yet on whether it would be available globally, but that would be about $400 in the U.S.
