Every now and then I run into details of a Tweet, press release, or a video that introduces some cool, new technology and it makes me say "WOW"… InstaPrint is one of those things!
I believe I heard about it a while back, however, just today (March 8, 2012) I got wind of their cool efforts and just have to share details.
Now, to put in context, I’m a mobile gadget freak, a photographer, and crazy about any technology that leverages location technology as a key feature. Well, that’s exactly what InstaPrint does. Think way back to the old Polaroid Instamatic cameras that shoot out your photos immediately in a very sweet, retro look, complete with white borders and funky look – fast forward to today, toss in a clever use of the Instagram API and enter Instaprint.
Here’s more about how it works
The idea here is that the device receives information about your Instagram photo, delimited by a specific location (triggered by your GPS enabled device – like an iPhone) or containing details of a specific hashtag. InstaPrint will then automatically print your instagram photo, and get this, it uses no ink! The printing process actually pulls the required color directly from the paper… cool!
InstaPic uses a linux mini computer as part of the hardware; it has wifi, uses no ink and color is pulled from the paper itself! Clever design enables output with rounded corners.
Here’s the exact "About" dialog from the company… Instaprint is a location based photo booth that can transform parties and events by putting a camera in everyone’s hand. By setting Instaprint to look out for specific locations or hashtags, any Instagram tagged appropriately will automatically be printed out on inkless paper
About the company… Instaprint was invented in the spring of 2011 by a small company called BREAKFAST. Over the past year the prototype devices have been seen at events such as store openings, product launches, a variety of different parties and events including The Grammys and Lady Gaga concerts.
BREAKFAST has announced that Instaprint is a KickStater Project and you can help and be a part of it! So far 300 backers have kicked in $76,597 towards their goal of $500,000 – check it out on KickStarter HERE
Back them with just $49 and get a small (about 8"x10") framed Instaprint collage of 10 of your and/or your friends’ Instagram photos. A very cool piece of art for your work or home. Makes a great gift too!
The @BREAKFASTny Team
Overall, my first impression is that this is downright freakin cool! Given the iPhone user community’s affinity for InstaGram (one of the hottest apps in the iTunes store) and the wondrous ability of Instagram users of any age, size, color, or gender to easily call themselves a "Photographer" you have to think this is a no-brainer. Add to that the cool PhotoBooth concept – I’ve been to a number of events and conferences using Photobooths and they are ALWAYS a hit! I’ll admit, the small hardware design and some of the initial design specs (inkless print, use of wifi, power consumption) give me a little concern, however, the idea is truly impressive. I can’t wait to try this one out!
FYI, yes I am, like millions of you, and Instagram user – see http://instagrid.me/gletham/
Instaprint is now available for pre-order on Kickstarter! Learn more here
http://instaprint.me/kickstarter/
Shipping in summer 2012 – Maybe!
Weblinks
- Follow the company at http://instaprint.me/
- See this awesome article on GeekyGadgets
- Follow the company on Twitter @BREAKFASTny