Regardless of what kind of mobile device or computer you own, Skype is pretty much available for your video calling needs. But what about the living room? Logitech answers the call with a new video calling camera for your HDTV.
Logitech has announced the TV Cam HD, a high-definition camera for your HDMI-equipped HDTV that brings built-in Skype functionality to the living room. Now, families can sit back and have a video chat with loved ones from the comfort of their sofa without having to hold a mobile gadget in front of their face.
"Amazing connections happen when the video calling experience moves to the TV in the living room: the most popular and comfortable place in the house,” said Joerg Tewes, vice president of Logitech’s digital home business group. “Because of the size of the TV screen and the quality of the video, the new Logitech TV Cam HD with Skype brings a whole new social element to the living room, helping you feel like your family and friends are right there with you. It’s a transformative experience.”
The Logitech TV Cam HD connects via Wi-Fi or Ethernet without the need for additional software or a computer. A simple bundled remote control makes Skype video calling to any smartphone, tablet, computer or even another HDTV quick and easy.
What about when the television is off? Logitech includes a built-in ringer that notifies users of an incoming call, whether the HDTV is on or off and a dedicated power supply makes sure calls can be made or received anytime.
About the only downside here is the price: $199.99 is a fair amount of scratch for those who already have a mobile device that's Skype-capable, especially when an iPhone, iPod touch or iPad can use AirPlay to put your call onto an HDTV using an Apple TV. But it's still $50 cheaper than TelyHD, the first gadget to attempt the same feat…
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