Cologne, Germany—Nikon Inc. unveiled its line of KeyMission action cameras. The new cameras are designed to encourage users to capture and share their personal “missions” from a fresh perspective. The lineup offers a hands-free way to document adventures through immersive video, putting viewers in the middle of the action.
Previewed at CES 2016, the rugged KeyMission 360 is the first Nikon camera capable of full 360° video in 4K UHD. Joining it is the KeyMission 170, an adventure cam capable of high-res stills and 4K UHD video at a wide-angle point of view. In addition, the compact, lightweight KeyMission 80 is in the lineup.
“The KeyMission series introduces amazing new tools for everyday storytellers eager to find and pursue their personal missions while sharing their loves with the world,” said Kosuke Kawaura, director, Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. “History is full of stories told from behind the camera. The KeyMission 360, KeyMission 170 and KeyMission 80 will challenge tradition and invite users to embark on a journey to share their missions from entirely new, immersive perspectives.”
Nikon KeyMission 360
Providing users with the ability to record and share adventures in 360° video, it features video capture in 4K UHD at 24p (3,840×2,160) or Full HD 1080p.
Additionally, the cam boasts two f/2.0 lenses and two 20 megapixel (MP) CMOS sensors to create videos/photos without blind spots. Automatic in-camera stitching cuts down on the editing process. It also eliminates the need for multiple cameras or expensive rigs to share 360° content.
Furthermore, shooters can customize videos with modes like superlapse, time-lapse or loop movies. These modes help provide unique perspectives of any scene. Users can also capture 360°, 30MP still images. An in-camera stereo microphone aids in recording crisp audio, while electronic vibration reduction (VR) is available after-capture. The compact cam is waterproof to 98 feet, shockproof to withstand a 6.6-foot fall and also freezeproof to 14° F—no housing required.
Users can share completely stitched, immersive content in 360° from either a smart device or desktop computer. This is accomplished via the Nikon SnapBridge 360/170 app for iOS and Android devices. The app also allows users to access camera settings, simple editing functions or live view.
For more advanced editing functions, the KeyMission 360/170 Utility program for PC and Mac is available. In addition, there are a variety of accessories and mounting solutions offered. These include a base mount adapter and two base mounts. A silicone jacket for added grip and protection as well as two lens protectors are also optional. Plus, a cardboard-style head mounted display, alongside a smartphone, enables fully immersive playback.
The action cam uses a standard ¼-inch tripod socket. Mounts and accessories can be used with the included base adapter. The cam is also compatible with an optional remote control. Its suggested retail price (SRP) is $499.95.
Nikon KeyMission 170
Designed to permit users to tell stories from an individual’s point of view, it sports a superwide 170° angle-of-view, f/2.8 lens. It combines with an 8.3MP CMOS sensor to capture 4K UHD or 1080p Full HD video. Also, the camera’s creative tools help users create unique content for sharing. For example, highlight tagging creates a highlight reel montage of the user’s favorite content, slow motion movies, time-lapse and loop recording.
Additionally, they can capture high-quality still images during video recording. And, again, in-camera electronic VR (1080p HD) helps minimize the effects of camera shake.
It is also waterproof to 33 feet, shockproof (6.6 ft.) and freezeproof (14° F) without a housing. The 170 camera has a rear LCD that can be used to frame shots in live view, play back video and change settings. Furthermore, users can utilize the Nikon SnapBridge 360/170 app for simple editing, framing and sharing. Also, the KeyMission 360/170 Utility program for PC/Mac gives more advanced editing capabilities.
In addition, the camera features a standard ¼-inch tripod socket as well as a supplied base mount adapter to connect other KeyMission accessories. And, it comes with a remote control accessory. An optional waterproof housing extends its underwater performance to 131 feet. SRP: $399.95.
Nikon KeyMission 80
The wearable action cam uses time-lapse recording and
interval timer functions to allow shooters to chronicle their journeys with high-quality stills or Full HD 1080/30p video. The cam employs a 12MP CMOS sensor and 25mm (80° angle-of-view) f/2.0 lens. Additionally, a secondary front-facing 5MP camera with a 22mm (90° angle-of-view), f/2.2 lens lets users snap selfies.
The small, lightweight cam is designed for one-handed use as well. It turns on immediately after being unclipped from its holder. It is waterproof (3.2 feet), shockproof (6 feet) and freezeproof (14° F). In addition, a 1.75-inch touch LCD lets users change settings, frame shots or play back captured content. It also pairs with Nikon’s SnapBridge app for sharing via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. SRP: $279.95.
KeyMission Mounts and Accessories
A range of optional mounts and accessories were also introduced with the action cam lineup. Compatible with all KeyMission cameras are the: KeyMission tripod; KeyMission extension arm; a soft case for accessories and cameras; and a hard case for accessories and cameras.
Accessories compatible with the KeyMission 360 and 170 are a remote control (supplied with the KeyMission 170), a helmet strap, wrist mount, handlebar mount, chest mount, surfboard mount, backpack mount and suction cup mount. Also available is an accessory grip. An additional accessory for the KeyMission 80 is a tripod adapter.
The Nikon KeyMission products will ship starting October 2016. Accompanying mounts and accessories, the Nikon SnapBridge 360/170 app and the 360/170 Utility program for PC will also be available in October. nikonusa.com
