Fujifilm FinePix Real 3D W3 adds HD video

Fujifilm launches its second-gen FinePix Real 3D W3 camera today with a couple of upgrades over the previous model.

The Real 3D W3, like its predecessor, uses two 3x optical zoom lenses and twin 10 megapixel CCD sensors to create 3D images and videos. For this iteration, Fujifilm has equipped the camera with 720p HD 3D video capture, a mini HDMI port, and a much higher resolution 3.5-inch LCD to complete the 3D package.

The 35-105mm equivalent lenses are synchronized and spaced 75mm apart. Left and right shutters are released at the same time, and a new RP Processor 3D HD merges the images together. Video is recorded as 3D-AVI files with two image channels, and with the help of a new mini HDMI port, users can display 720p HD videos in 3D on compatible 3D HDTV screens.

The Finepix W3 gets a major boost in LCD resolution. The new screen measures 3.5-inches with a 1150k-dot resolution, improving on the Finepix W1's 2.8-inch 230k-dot monitor. That should come in handy since it's the easiest way to view 3D videos and images taken with the camera. The LCD is equipped with a lenticular system to display an image in 3D without the need for 3D glasses.

Like the first 3D Finepix camera, the W3 boasts some unique two-dimensional shooting modes thanks to its dual lens/sensor combo. Each side of the camera can be assigned a different focal length or processing mode to capture two different images at the same time.

The W3 also offers a dedicated 2D/3D switch button, a dedicated movie record button, and auto or manual control over the strength of the parallax 3D effect. Printing of 3D images is still offered at $6.99 per print.

Pricing and availability
Fujifilm will make the FinePix Real 3D W3 available in early September to the tune of $499.95, the same introductory MSRP as the Real 3D W1.