A new device is being crowd-funded which claims to transform any smartphone, whether Android or iOS, into a micro four-thirds cinema camera.
The Sneaki Design Switch Lens device brings an improved image sensor and MFT lens mount to work in concert with your smartphone producing a higher-quality cinematic image compared to the phone’s built-in camera.
Image Credit – SneakiDesign
The Switch Lens comes with a standard 21 MP Type-1 Sony 1-inch CMOS image sensor.
Users have the option to upgrade to a better micro four-thirds sensor through stretch goals, which promises twice the image coverage of a smartphone’s standard camera sensor.
This upgraded option uses the same Sony sensor found in the 2022 Olympus OM-1.
Image Credit – SneakiDesign
In addition, the Switch Lens offers real bokeh through a variety of MFT-mounted lenses.
The device is designed to attach through a mobile device’s MagSafe/Qi2 connection and can also be attached to phone cases with the MagSafe ring installed.
Depending on the sensor combination, the device provides between two to three times the standard micro-four-thirds image crop.
It can record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, with an ISO range of 100-12800, expandable to 50-25600 through the app.
It can also connect wirelessly and be removed and placed almost anywhere while maintaining a remote connection, which is perfect for capturing unique angles and selfies.
Additional features include a white balance range of 2600-8600 Kelvin and a shutter speed range of 1/8000-10 seconds.
Users can also access advanced cinema camera functions such as false color, focus peaking, and Raw still image capture.
Image Credit – SneakiDesign
The device includes a micro SD card slot providing up to 1.5 TB of storage, a Type C USB connection with 5Gbps throughput, and is powered by a 14500 3.7v rechargeable lithium battery.
The downside is that the creators are not including the Lithium Ion battery with the device due to shipping regulations. They advise picking up a battery through Amazon.
Pricing and availability:
With three weeks remaining in its Kickstarter Campaign, the Switch Lens has already surpassed its modest $10,000 goal. Interested backers can purchase the Switch Lens for $199, body only.
The Micro Four-Thirds sensor upgrade is an additional $99. Backers can also choose a three-lens set consisting of a 25mm F1.8, 35mm F1.8, and 50mm F1.8 Lens for $346, which includes a Pelican-style storage case. There is also a six-lens combo available for $649.
Once fully backed and fulfilled, the Switch Lens will have a retail price of $329. Optional add-on MFT lenses are available, ranging from 7.5 to 50 mm. A super-fast “night lens” with an aperture rating of F.95 is also available.
Delivery is estimated to begin in November 2024. However, backing a cinematic product through crowdfunding can involve production delays, so potential backers should invest with caution.
[source: Kickstarter]
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