Spy cameras – nothing new here, right? Embedded cameras have been around for years, but now they are becoming more affordable and in more products for the average consumer. This article will give you a taste of what’s available right now.

Starting off our list is the calculator spycam. It’s essentially a desktop calculator with a very small video camera embedded in its side. It also functions as a desktop calculator making the illusion complete. Expect to get at least 25FPS at a 320×240 resolution. Also look for multiple video and photo recording formats, such as AVI, MPEG4, and MP3.

Next up are spy camera watches. These wristwatches look like those straight out of a James Bond movie. Expensive looking, with the camera lens embedded in the face of the watch. In one example, the lens is expertly hidden in the numbering. Due to the smaller size, the video quality isn’t quite as good as in a larger device. It is still remarkable for something you can get for under $200.

Another very spy movie-like device is spy camera sunglasses. Look for those that can take both photos and video. You should be able to find a pair that takes at least 1.3 Megapixel shots. Again, under $200 will turn you into a secret agent fast.

If you need to take images or video from afar or above ground, then get a remote spy plane. This is perfect for reconnaissance. Most people wouldn’t even suspect that a remote controlled plane could take photos or record video.

There are also ground-based remote controlled vehicles (cars, trucks, etc.). Some will even instantly transmit video wirelessly to a headset or other screen.

Perhaps you have kids and have babysitters or nannies take care of your children periodically. Then you may want something more appropriate that would blend into a kid’s bedroom or perhaps the living room. In this case, there are toys (like teddy bears!) that have embedded cameras, some of which can be hooked up to your home computer network and that can transmit real-time. You can then view that from any computer with a Web browser.

You can see a full roundup of specific examples of these embedded spy camera devices at this popular blog for electronics gadgets.



spy camera