Logitech and
Skype have teamed up to release the
TV Cam HD, a high-definition video conferencing camera that is compatible with any HDTV that offers HDMI input. The camera comes with Skype pre-installed along with built-in Wi-Fi and Ethernet, so you won’t need to have an internet-ready TV to chat with friends and family elsewhere. Logitech maintains that the camera is easy to setup as users can simply hook it up to their HDTV via an open HDMI port. Existing Skype users can then sign into their account as normal.
The TV Cam HD can be used to make video calls naturally, but can also be used to dial mobile and landline numbers using Skype Credit. Logitech is highlighting its Fluid Crystal technology, which is designed to deliver "crystal clear sound and sharp, rich video images". The device will ring whether your TV is on or off, and voicemail is offered is there is no one home to take a call.
The device itself bears a striking resemblance to Kinect for Xbox 360, so at least we know it should look like it belongs next to a TV. The TV Cam HD is currently available to
preorder for $199.99.