Kodak Playsport Pocket Cam Revealed [New Kodak Pocket Cam Based On Zi8, Shoots 1080p, Waterproof]

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Kodak’s Zi8 pocket camcorder, capable of 1080p video, was popular with critics last year (we covered it here), and now, Kodak is iterating on a good thing. At CES earlier this month, they showed off the Kodak Playsport, a pocket cam that takes the critically acclaimed Zi8 and puts it into a ruggedized waterproof case.

Like the Zi8, the Playsport will be capable of taking 1080p video at 30 fps, or 702p video at 60 fps – your choice. It will feature automatic image stabilization, which will be handy for all your underwater shaky cam exploits. While the Playsport doesn’t have the attractive design of the Zi8, this one is waterproof and ruggedized. You can take it 3 meters (10 feet) underwater safely.

It will feature a 2-inch LCD display on the back and when it’s in still-picture mode, it acts as a 5-megapixel digital camera. The camera is optimized for ‘low light’ viewing and it features a built in lithium-ion battery, complete with charger. No internal storage, but it will feature a SD/SDHC slot that can handle cards up to 32GB.

No word from Kodak on how long lasting the battery will be. An HDMI port will let you playback your rugged adventures on a larger screen. Kodak will be selling a ton of accessories to go with this camera, including tripods, cases, neck straps and a remote control.

The whole thing will cost you $150, which isn’t a bad price for an HD camera. It’ll come in three colors, Black (which Kodak calls ‘Abyss’ – James Cameron reference?), blue and purple. The device will hit Best Buy and Amazon.com in April of this year, and Amazon is now taking pre-orders.