Sony introduces world’s first recordable binoculars

Although the $1,400 price tag for Sony’s all-new high-end binoculars is a bit steep, the DEV-3 and DEV-5 are anything but ordinary binoculars. These are the world’s first digital binoculars to record in 1080p HD. They can also snap 7.1 megapixel stills. Both the DEV-3 and DEV-5 include two Exmor R CMOS sensors for native 3D video capture, dual f/1.8-3.4, 0.5-10x optical zoom lenses, and a pair of 1,227-dot viewfinders. The binoculars also feature the same image stabilization system found in Sony cameras and camcorders. The pricier DEV-5 also gets a 10x digital zoom, GPS, and accessories like a carrying case and neck strap. “Now consumers can watch birds, wildlife, sports action and more in steady, sharply-focused close-up views, while capturing their subjects in crisp Full HD,” said Andy Bubala, director of the camcorder business at Sony Electronics. “These new models add entirely new levels of flexibility and convenience to viewing, recording and enjoying your favorite images and scenes.” Other features include Memory Stick Pro Duo and SDXC support, stereo microphones with an audio input jack, and HDMI out. If you’re an avid bird watcher, or just really like to spy on your neighbors, the new Sony DEV-3 and DEV-5 digital recordable binoculars can be yours for about $1,400 and $2,000, respectively. Look for them in stores this November.