U.K. carrier EE launches 4G enabled action cam

Hoping to compete in the action camera space currently dominated by GoPro, U.K. wireless carrier EE announced today the launch of the 4GEE Action Cam, the world’s first action cam with 4G technology built-in. To capitalize on the built-in connectivity, EE has built-in support for live streaming of video being captured by the device using the skeegle platform. The 4GEE Action Cam is the first of several 4G devices EE plans to launch as part of a new EE Connected Strategy.

EE says they are looking “beyond mobile phones” as they work to help customers take advantage of the 4G network that has been built since 2012. EE plans to develop their own products aimed at the home, personal items, the car, and businesses.

The 4GEE Action Cam will be capable of broadcasting live streams as well as capturing video to an SD card. The camera is capable of capturing full 1080p HD video, although live broadcasting will cut that down to only 720p. Likewise, users can opt to reduce video to 720p in exchange for bumping up to a higher frame rate of 60fps, useful for shots planned to be seen in slow motion or exceptionally fast action. The camera will also be capable of capturing 13MP still images.

To help users capture great shots, the 4GEE Action Cam comes with an accompanying viewfinder watch that can also be used to control the camera. Users can also opt to use an app on their iOS or Android device which can not only control the camera, but gives users the ability to manage pictures, videos, data usage and top-ups.

The new skeegle platform for broadcasting video includes three functions:

• Broadcast – providing live streaming of up to 10 minutes;
• Replay – a guide to all skeegle videos captured with the device;
• Circles – the method used to identify and manage contacts who can view live streams.

EE will start selling the 4GEE Action Cam on June 16th through their retail locations, telesales, and their online store. The device will also be available through a variety of partner retailers like Amazon and Jessops. On a shared plan, buyers can get the action cam with now up front cost and a £15 ($23 USD) per month fee for 24 months or £99.99 ($154 USD) up-front with a £10 ($15 USD) monthly fee. Consumers can also opt for pay-as-you-go options starting at £299.99 ($460 USD) up front with 2GB of data good for 30 days.

source: EE

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