Smartphones today are capable of capturing excellent photos and videos, but they often lack the intuitive handling that traditional cameras offer. To bridge that gap, the Snappy, a new gadget designed by Hong Kong-based Buddiesman, offers users enhanced control over their smartphone’s camera, making it function more like a real camera. Currently being funded through a Kickstarter campaign, the Snappy introduces several features that cater to both amateur and professional photographers.
The Snappy is equipped with a spring-loaded rubberized clamp that securely holds a smartphone in place. This clamp can accommodate phones of varying widths, even when a case is attached, providing users with flexibility. Connected to the clamp is a rubberized ergonomic grip that is designed for comfortable handheld use. The grip is linked to the clamp via an articulated arm, allowing for smoother handling and control while taking photos or recording videos.
One of the standout features of the Snappy is its motorized functionality, which includes a thumbwheel on the back of the grip. This allows the user to easily switch between landscape and portrait orientations without needing to adjust the phone manually. Additionally, a front-facing wheel on the grip enables smooth transitions between photo and video modes, as well as controlled zoom adjustments.
For added convenience, a DSLR-style shutter button on the top of the grip allows users to take photos and start or stop video recordings. The grip can even be detached and used as a remote control, providing Bluetooth connectivity up to a range of 10 meters (33 feet).
A key feature of the Snappy is its built-in gyroscopically controlled single-axis gimbal, which stabilizes the smartphone while recording handheld video. This ensures smoother footage by maintaining the phone’s horizontal axis. In addition, the forward-facing side of the clamp includes an LED ring light, which can be adjusted by touch to switch between cool and warm color temperatures and to control light intensity.
Other useful features include a tripod mount on the bottom of the grip, a cold shoe for adding peripherals like microphones or additional lights, and the ability to use the device as a phone stand with adjustable angles. Users can even power their phones directly from the Snappy’s battery.
For those interested in supporting the Kickstarter campaign, a pledge of $89 will secure a Snappy, with a planned retail price of $149 once it reaches production.
Source: Kickstarter
