The Polaroid camera was my favorite camera growing up, all because of the required shake needed to expose the picture after it was taken. My friends and I took multiple photos and traded them like baseball cards when we hung out. We even wrote silly messages in the available white space that made up the surrounding border of the photo.
When Polaroid announced the discontinuation of instant film back in 2008, I was a bit bummed. Digital cameras quickly became popular, and the need for instant film began to fade; and once phone cameras made their way into the public, film became pretty much obsolete.
Digital and phone cameras allowed consumers to share prints via social media, which provided various opportunities for consumers to not only save and share their photos, but to also self-edit them – kickstarting the self-made photographer. While I enjoy sharing photos of my daughter with distant relatives, I have to admit, I miss collecting square snapshots of memories – call me sentimental.
At this year’s CES, Polaroid has reintroduced instant film with its new Android-based digital camera with a built-in zero-ink printer. The Socialmatic isn’t exactly pocket-sized, but for all of you retro and socially obsessed individuals, it’s the perfect device. With the ability to instantly print 2 by 3-inch photos or stickers that are smudge-proof and water and tear-resistant, consumers can also share their selfies, group shots, or scenery photos via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi on any social media platform.
The Socialmatic also incorporates QR codes that users can scan to keep track of each print – perfect if you’re great at losing things like me. It also features a 14-megapixel shooter, a 2-MP selfie camera, 4 GB of storage, a microSD slot; a 4.5″ touchscreen, stereo speakers, frontal LCD with mood assistant A.I., and an LED flash.
Even though it’s not needed, I’d still recommend proceeding with the shaking movement once the photo is printed … for old time’s sake.
