2
We have recently found webcams that offer much more efficient subject tracking than before thanks to a system on a ball joint, as on the new Link from Insta360.
In the beginning, there was the webcam. Simple, fixed image, with a rendering of more or less good quality. Then some generally high-end webcams began to offer rather effective subject tracking, such as the Dell UltraSharp. Until now, this tracking worked on the basis of software cropping, and we therefore lost width of the filmed scene, but some recent models now offer real tracking thanks to a head mounted on a ball joint, in the manner of what found on some handheld cameras.
If Insta360 is usually specialized in action-cams and other travel cameras, the brand has just announced a webcam intended for professionals and creators who want a high-end model offering advanced features for their videoconferences or streaming sessions.
The webcam in classic use. © Insta360
With its 1/2 inch sensor, the webcam offers a 4K image at 30 fps, a definition that is rarely found on this type of product. We can of course opt for lower definitions with a higher bit rate thanks to the dedicated application, for example Full HD 60 fps. The field of view is 79.5°, the lens opens at f 1.8, and the Link can be mounted on a monitor or on a tripod.
Efficient, crop-free subject tracking
The most interesting element of this webcam is obviously its ability to rotate on three axes in order to mechanically follow the user if he moves. The tracking looks efficient and perfectly smooth, but we’ll have to test it ourselves to be sure. Added to this is remote control of the camera using precise gestures, which seems very practical. Raising your hand allows you, for example, to stop tracking on a still image, making an L with your fingers causes a zoom in or out of the image and making a V activates the board mode: if a whiteboard is present in room, activating this mode commands the webcam to crop the image to display the painting large for the viewers.
This gesture enables or disables subject tracking. © Insta360
According to the manufacturer, the development should be almost instantaneous, and the HDR mode will correct exposure problems in scenes with high dynamics (indoors with a sunny window, for example). The webcam also has two microphones with active noise reduction, while the dedicated application will allow you to make a whole bunch of audio, video, exposure settings, etc.
You will have to pay a high price to get your hands on the Link, already available at a price of €369.99. We will offer you a test of this promising new webcam as soon as possible.