HTC Launches RE Action Camera With 16-Megapixel CMOS Sensor

HTC at its 'Double Exposure' event on Wednesday launched the selfie-focused Desire Eye smartphone alongside a new GoPro-like camera dubbed RE, which the company calls "a remarkable little camera."

The company also revealed a flurry of new features such as the HTC Eye Experience, which the company claims is an "enhanced imaging software" for HTC devices, and an all new Zoe, which is a collaborative video editing community.

With the launch of the new RE action camera, the Taiwanese giant is taking a big leap forward and is now more than just a smartphone maker. The company's new RE device will be available in the US starting November, and followed by other regions later. As of now, HTC has not revealed the pricing of the RE - it can be expected to be announced near release.

Interestingly, the RE camera device will be compatible with both Android and iOS devices. A companion app for both Android and iOS will be available for download soon, according to HTC.

The RE camera listing on the company's site notes, "Take complete control of your RE photos and videos with sharing functions and automatic storage with the RE app." Notably, HTC has already released an RE site for the India region tipping an imminent launch in the country soon.

As rumoured earlier, the new RE camera design is reminiscent of a PVC pipe with a camera inside.

The highlight of the RE device is the 16-megapixel sensor that can click or record with a 146-degree ultra-wide angle lens (f/2.8). The camera can record 1080p video at 30fps. Notably, HTC says the new RE device is a waterproof device with IPX7 certification, while the listing also claims that the waterproof cap enhances the RE's rating to IPX8.

Interestingly, the device does not include a power button; instead there is a built-in grip sensor that switches-on the device upon grip detection.

To power the device, there is an 820mAh battery claimed to be enough for clicking 1200 photos or 1 hour 40 minutes continuous full-HD video recording. The RE camera action camera comes with 32MB ROM and 256MB of DDR RAM with microSD card support.

For connectivity, there are Bluetooth, Wi-Fi 802.11b/g/n, and Micro-USB options. HTC has also announced several accessories for the RE camera, such as an adjustable clamp, charging stand, universal mounting stand, universal wall plug (charger), portable battery, and dual-port adopter.