Finally, A Webcam That’s Not Awkward, For Those Cherished Human Connections
Image via Center Cam
Your remote meetings just got less awkward with the introduction of the Center Cam, which reimagines the traditional webcam with one simple fix: it’s positioned in the middle of your screen. With this counterintuitive tweak, the device aims to bring back the human connection in virtual interactions, reminiscent of pre-COVID days.
One of the biggest challenges in the era of video conferencing has been maintaining natural eye contact. Computer cameras, sat at the edge of the screen, often force users to choose between looking directly at the lens or the people and notes on the screen. This dilemma snowballs into a less socially acceptable interaction, where it appears you’re not looking at the person you’re speaking to. The Center Cam tackles the issue head-on by placing the webcam right in the middle of the screen, allowing for more natural and engaging conversations.
Image via Center Cam
The brainchild behind Center Cam is inventor Ian Foster, who, during his Master’s internship as a social work counselor, faced the challenge of maintaining rapport with clients over video calls. The transition to remote counseling during the pandemic highlighted the limitations of traditional webcams. Foster noticed that the young men he was counseling were distracted by the technology, and the personal connection they had previously established wasn’t quite there.
Determined to find a solution, Foster realized the need for a better-positioned webcam to facilitate direct eye contact. His search for such a device, however, came up empty, which propelled him to develop prototypes throughout the lockdown. The Center Cam, envisioned to enhance connections during virtual interactions, was born.
Image via Center Cam
Image via Center Cam
The Center Cam comes in two packages: the Standard (US$119.99) and the Deluxe (US$139.99). The standard includes the webcam assembly, an adjustable clip mount, and a lens privacy cover. The Deluxe option, made for pros, throws in an adjustable ring-light mount and a storage case. Both feature a webcam with 1080p resolution, an F2.1 lens, 30 FPS, and a 65-degree horizontal field of view. The clip mount can also open up to two inches and includes a five-foot-long unit with 16 inches of flexible cable.
Image via Center Cam
The device is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and Linux, and connects via USB-A or USB-C.
Initially a Kickstarter campaign, Center Cam has now been fully funded and is available for purchase.
Image via Center Cam
[via Center Cam]
