Polaroid has launched the iM1836, the World’s first Android-powered interchangeable-lens camera, at CES 2013.
The genre-making iM1836 has an 18MP sensor housed within the lens itself. It will run on Android version 4.1 (Jelly Bean), in three modes: shoot, edit, and apps. Unlike the 16.3MP Samsung Galaxy Camera that has 3G, the iM1836 (how’s that for a mouthful) has only WiFi and Bluetooth for connectivity.
On the downside, the iM1836’s rather odd camera sensor location, inside its lens, has raised the question of whether or not users will need to buy new sensors for new lens. Furthermore the lens-mountings are a proprietary design by Polaroid, although adapters to the Micro Four Thirds system will be available.
Further on the upside, later this year, Polaroid hopes to release a telephoto lens, a 50mm prime lens, and adapters for competitor lenses. Earlier last year, the company released the SC1630, its first Android digital camera.
The iM1836 is scheduled to ship in 2Q2013, retailing for USD349 (RM1,070) with a 10-30mm lens kit. No word on whether the Polaroid iM1836’s will be coming to Malaysia.
