With Lifeprint the instant camera comes to the iPhone. In this article, we will explain to whom it makes sense, how it works and what the term “augmented reality photo printer” means!
In short:
- Attachable instant camera for Apple iPhone
- Zink photo paper
- Format: 2 x 3
- Augmented Reality Hyperfotos
- Lithium ion battery
- Lifeprint app required
Portable printer comes to the Apple iPhone
The Lifeprint brand is actually known for its ultra slim photo and video printer. With the Lifeprint 2×3 digital instant camera for iPhone there is now a solution where the printer is mounted directly on the smartphone. The aim is to make the instant camera feeling tangible on the iPhone as well. Thanks to the corresponding app, there is also an augmented feature (AR). In other words, the ability to turn pictures into “hyperfotos“. But more about that later.
How does the Lifeprint instant camera work?
The principle of the Lifeprint instant camera is simple: a flexible clip holds the iPhone in place, similar to a hands-free car cradle. Then the device must be connected to the phone via Bluetooth. The Lifeprint App for iOS is also mandatory for use. An account must be created for the app and you can start using it. Afterwards, you can either take photos directly via the integrated shutter button or print photos already available on the phone. Of course, the photos can be edited beforehand via the app and equipped with all kinds of filters.
Augmented Reality Photo Printer
The special highlight of the Lifeprint instant camera is the augmented reality feature. The printed images can be combined with a video (max. 10 sec.), a GIF or another photo. If you now hold the mobile phone with the opened Lifeprint App over such a hyperfoto, the photo becomes a canvas for connected videos or photos (at the end of the article there is a video of exactly how this looks like). Since the associated video or image is in the cloud, such a hyperfoto can be viewed by any app user. Provided you have the app and of course the printed photo. By the way, you don’t need an account in the app to view it.
Lifeprint compatible iPhone models
Currently the following Apple models are supported:
- iPhone XS
- iPhone XS Max
- iPhone XR
- iPhone X
- iPhone 8
- iPhone 8 Plus
- iPhone 7
- iPhone 7 Plus
Miscellaneous
The photos of the Lifeprint instant camera are printed on Zink photo paper. In contrast to models such as the Instax Mini 11, this technique does not use ink, the colour pigments are already contained in the paper. The photos also have an optional adhesive surface on the back. The battery can produce approx. 20 prints per charge. By the way, Lifeprint is a social network, so content can be shared publicly.
The Lifeprint comes with a USB cable for charging, a pack of Zink photo paper (5 pieces), a carrying strap and a user manual.
Tech specs
- Battery: Lithium ion battery
- Dimensions: 4.7 x 3.3 x 1.6 inches
- Weight: 7 oz
- Film: zinc photo paper
- USB charging cable, photo paper (5 sheets), manual, hand strap
- Photo format: 2:3
- Picture size: 2 x 3 inches
- System requirements: iOS 10 or higher
Source: https://lifeprintphotos.com/collections/all/products/lifeprint-instant-print-camera-for-iphone-black
Conclusion
At first glance, the Zink photo paper alone makes the pictures of the Lifeprint instant camera look less like classic polaroid pictures. But this does not necessarily have to be a disadvantage (adhesive surface!). And unlike a separate printer, this clip-on camera also gives you a bit of an instant camera feeling. The AR feature is of course a matter of taste. The feature is always impressive. Bringing the image under the camera to life – a new experience. And at about 150,- $ the Lifeprint instant camera is actually affordable for an Apple product.
If you prefer to own a “real” instant camera, take a look at the Canon Zoemini S – it also uses self-adhesive Zink photo paper. Fans of classic instant cameras, on the other hand, might stick to models like the new Polaroid Now!
VIDEO: this is how the Augmented Reality Feature works
