Samsung i70

Samsung’s i70 isn’t so much a camera as a multimedia extravaganza. Also accommodating an MP3 player, MPEG4 video recorder, multimedia player, text viewer and voice recorder, it seems surprising that the camera manages to feature a specification akin to that of many of its seven-megapixel peers.

Encased within a slide-out shell, the camera features a standard 3x optical zoom, an ISO range extending to 1000 and an Advanced Shake Reduction (ASR) mode. A 3in LCD screen adorns the back of the unit, but the only resolutions that take advantage of the screen’s full size are the 1, 3 and 5MP widescreen options.

A ‘Wise Shot’ mode takes two consecutive pictures – one with flash and one with the ASR – providing the option of both exposures, while a range of colour options and a custom setting allows the individual adjustment of red, green and blue tones within an image.

Handling, it has to be said, has been compromised by the unit’s design. The slide-out body creates enough space for the LCD screen and a large menu pad but the latter is somewhat embedded, making a few buttons on the side awkward to press. The biggest annoyance, however, is with the lack of explanation once modes are chosen, providing just a simple icon as to their function. Focusing is speedy though, as is the start-up time. With enough light, the camera can perform well, but images can sometimes turn out a little ‘soft’ with a lack of detail. Highlights don’t hold up too well either, but fringing is well controlled.

There is no doubt a small demographic that will appreciate the i70’s novelty value and multi-purpose functionality. Unfortunately, as is the case with a lot of all-in-one combo’s, the i70 doesn’t particularly excel in any area.