FUJIFILM will release a hybrid instant camera "instax mini LiPlay", which supports credit-card-size film and allows you to enjoy photo prints on the spot.

The LiPlay is a hybrid instant film camera. It doesn't shoot straight to instant film like analog Instax cameras, but instead uses a very small 1/5-inch digital image sensor that captures 2,560x1,920-pixel images (about 5 megapixels). The prints are small like those from other Instax Mini cameras at 3.4 by 2.1 inches (86 by 54 mm), though the actual image size is 2.4 by 1.8 inches (62 by 46 mm).

The camera’s main unit is the smallest and most lightweight in the history of the instax series. Yet, at the same time, the camera is packed with new features such as the “Sound Message” function to convey a voice message or other audio data in the form of a QR code on a photo print, and the “Direct Print” function to print images in your smartphone on instax film.

Fujifilm has also announced new metallic instax mini film “CONFETTI” and instax square film “Star-illumination,” available in two stages from June 21, adding a touch of flamboyant flair to your photos.

The “instax” series of instant cameras, launched in 1998, is affectionately called “Cheki” in Japan, where it has enjoyed wide popularity for over 20 years. Today, it is sold in over 100 countries around the world, including Europe, Americas, Asia Pacific, with the cumulative number of units shipped topping 45 million worldwide.

The new “LiPlay,” is a hybrid instant camera that allows you to check images you have taken on the 2.7-inch LCD monitor on the back and choose images you want to print. The camera’s sound-recording function is capable of recording up to ten seconds of audio. The “Sound Recording” function converts the audio data into a QR code and adds it to a photo to be printed out together. The audio can be replayed by scanning the printed QR code with a smartphone. This allows you to give your sentiment at the pictured scene. The camera also features the “Direct Print” function, which transfers a photo via Bluetooth in your smartphone to the LiPlay for printing. You can print your favorite picture in your smartphone easily on instax film and share it with your friends. To take a group photo, the camera also offers the Remote Shooting function so that you can release the shutter by using a smartphone operation.

The camera includes buttons and dials for basic operations such as shutter release and Sound Recording function. The camera comes in three colors, each of which has different surface processing, such as embossed or smooth finish.

The Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay goes on sale June 14 for $160.

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