Old Technology, New Devices
Gadgets from decades ago provide inspiration for new creations
Logan Krupa, Tech Columnist
As every new year rolls around, we tend to think both of the future that we want and the past that we yearn to experience again. Tech companies seem to experience the same paradox; while often releasing fancy new gadgets, companies sometimes release something whimsically old-school. Here are some soon-to-be released devices that are inspired by old technology.
Polaroid Snap camera
As convenient as apps like Instagram can be, there’s joy to be found in having a physical print of a photograph to cherish. The Polaroid Snap ($99 USD) attempts to bring back the convenience and fun of the original Polaroid camera with some new technology in a pocket-friendly form. The Snap uses Zink’s paper and inkless technology to instantly produce prints. The camera is delightfully simple, with buttons for colour, black and white or sepia prints as the only customization options. There isn’t even an option to view photos on a screen or to save a file digitally. Printing photos for friends and family on the spot with the Snap could be a great way to have some fun.
Sony HX500 Turntable
Many people love the tactile sensation of placing a record on a turntable and they also love the convenience of digital audio on their smartphones. Sony has decided to combine the best of both worlds with the HX500 turntable (Price TBA). Not only will the turntable play vinyl records, but it also has the capability to rip high resolution digital files to your computer. A mobile app and desktop software provided by Sony will be provided to help bridge the gap from analog records to digital audio as easily as possible.
Kodak Super 8 Cameras
Super 8mm film cameras were first manufactured in 1965 by Kodak. The new Kodak Super 8 camera revives this formerly popular film format. | Photo courtesy of Josh Varcarcel via Wired
JJ Abrams grew up shooting with a Super 8 film camera. Kodak has created new Super 8 cameras ($400 USD and up, depending on model choice) in hopes that a new generation of filmmakers will be inspired. The cost of developing film from a Super 8 camera can be done by Kodak at a cost of about $50 to $75 USD per reel. A digital copy of the film will also be provided.
The camera on display at the Consumer Electronics Show featured a retro yet relatively compact design for a film camera. Models should go on sale in the second half of 2016, to the delight of hipster filmmakers everywhere.
