The last bastion of good old fashioned standard definition online video has fallen.
With the introduction of Logitech's 3 new webcam models going to widescreen proportions, your entire online video universe can now reflect the new standard.
Now only one of the Logitech models – the C910 – is true HD (1920 x 1080 resolution). But that's not really an issue as streaming true HD over a service like Skype, or broadcasting live on uStream is overkill anyway. And for most folks, with older software and older system, the larger resolution can really slow down your workflow.
However, what is exciting is now you can update your entire spectrum of video … even your webcam – to the new wide standard.
The good news – at least judging by the reviews on Amazon – is that the new models have been well received. Not only that, but other web cam makers are jumping in the fray as well. Microsoft's LifeCam cinema also boasts wide screen resolution.
Are there issues with the new models?
Well for starters, there appeared to be some Skype compatibility challenges. With Skype not recognizing the wide screen aspect ratio. But the Logitech models appear to have a workaround. And you can aspect any issues to go out the window in the coming months as more and more folks make the jump to widescreen webcams.
But these models are for PC folks … what about Mac?
Well surprisingly, the folks at Apple appear to be dragging their heels a bit. My new MacBook Pro features a standard definition built in iSight camera. Which is a bit of a bummer. But you can use the built in iMove software to take your standard def talking head videos and crop them to the widescreen format.
(We may feature the how-to's on that in a future tutorial).
