Microsoft’s LifeCam Goes Wide

When I think of webcams, I think of podcasts, those cheesy “watch my webcam” spam ads that have been all over my AIM as of late, and seedier activities that I won’t go into here (this is a respectable site after all). Now all that and more can be filmed in widescreen format thanks to Microsoft and their new LifeCam Cinema HD Webcam. Because watching Mr. T’s “Treat Your Mother Right” video in anything else but widescreen is simply uncivilized (Be Somebody y’all!).

The LifeCam is the first consumer webcam to feature widescreen. The high definition device has resolution of 720p and has a framerate capture of 30 frames a second. The webcam also features 4X digital zoom and the AutoFocus guarantees a sharp image from up to four inches from the camera while Microsoft’s ClearFrame technology creates a smoother video thanks to faster image processing. The improved noise reduction tech on the digital microphone ensures that audio is clear as a bell.

In addition to the sweet wideescreen, the LifeCam has some nifty software that makes editing, viewing, and sharing videos an engaging process. Windows Live Movie Maker gives users the power to take still shots and video and transform them into movies and post them on YouTube and social networking sites. But if you just need something for your still images, Windows Live Photo makes it easy to edit, tag, and share images with family and friends. If you want to get a little creative, use LifeCam Dashboard to add some cool effects.

But there are times when you feel like doing a little webchatting. When the urge arises, just queue up a video call with the Windows Live Call Button that lets you see who’s online and let’s you begin chatting it up almost immediately.

Compatible with Windows Live, Skype, Yahoo! Messenger, and AOL Messenger, the LifeCam is currently retailing for an affordable $80. If you’re really into making amateur movies, this might be worth checking out. In the meantime, I’m going to be watching our soldiers falling prey to the insidious “Cha Cha Slide” over in Iraq.