I’m not much of a thrill-seeking speed freak. But for those who like to ski, skydive or mountain bike over tough terrain, here’s the latest must-have gadget. Seattle-based Contour today is releasing the Contour+2, a helmet-mounted video camera that shoots 1080p HD video and allows adventure sports nuts to track speed, distance and elevation.
The video camera, which will be available later this month for $399, also allows users to share their favorite moments via YouTube, Vimeo and, for the first time, Facebook.
Now everyone can share in your daring jumps and wonderful wipeouts. “For the first time, you can share social, video and data,” said Contour CEO Marc Barros, who founded the company as part of the University of Washington. “It is kind of like Nike+ meets video.”
Barros said that he thinks that the $399 camera will do well, noting that the company’s last product was priced at $499 and sold really well. “This one is $100 cheaper, with better features,” he said.
“Instead of just the video, you can add your speed and elevation and distance and we put Google Maps together with the video as well, so when you post it to your Facebook timeline it is so much more interesting than just the video.”
The camera also features faster frame rates to adjust for changes in lighting, and one button recording to easily record. It also includes a waterproof case, so users can take the camera on surfing adventures.
Contour now employs 55 people, and once again made the Inc. 500 list. The company continues to face competition from GoPro, maker of the Hero line of video cameras. “We are focused on profits and growing at the right rate long-term. We are thinking much more long-term about how we build a sustainable business,” said Barros.
