PURE DIGITAL TO GIVE FREE LOW-END CAMS TO 3rd-WORLD NON-PROFITS

Wow, this is really kind of impressive. Remember those cheapy single-use camcorders CVS sells that are ideal for hacking? Well, the company behind them is called Pure Digital and they also make a pre-hacked version of the same camera that has a USB plug built in. The USB plug is VERY classy (not) and since it flips out, Pure Digital decided to call it the "Flip Video Camcorder". You can see one for yourself at theflip.com. They're pretty ugly and kind of expensive for what they really are. They come in two sizes 30 and 60 minutes and price in at around $150 and $180, respectively. I've messed around with the single-use version of the camera and I must say that while I think they're cool, they're not worth the price--especially compared to the Aiptek camera I have which does everything the Flip does but also has a video-in for recording external video sources--and it's available at the Aiptek site for just $100.

So, in the end, I wouldn't recommend spending money on the Flip--unless you can get it for the price a bunch of third world non-profits are going to see them for--free. According to a September 26, 2007 post at GeekSugar.com, Pure Digital is getting all generous on our-asses:

Pure Digital will distribute up to one million Flip Video Camcorders to nonprofits and other qualified non-governmental organizations (NGOs) over the next five years, starting this December. These groups will be able to use video as a tool to highlight the need for their services, better communicate with their donors, and broadcast their accomplishments to the world. Qualified nonprofits and NGOs can sign up to purchase Flip Video Spotlight Kits at Flip Video Spotlight and will receive the necessary tools to begin using video technology effectively. The massive camcorder giveaway kicks off today at the Clinton Global Initiative where the camcorders will be distributed to each of the current and former heads of state and other leaders. How cool is that?!

Pretty cool, indeed!

Honestly, I think video cameras are the great equalizer. I'm a big believer in the principle/art/idea of sousveillance, which is the word Steve Mann created to describe "watchful vigilance from underneath." How does Big Brother like it when Little Brother is staring right back at him?

So, three cheers for Pure Digital for getting good PR from doing a good deed. Who says all big businesses are bad? Not me.

But I do say some of them are.

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