Fujifilm’s Instax Mini Evo 2 adds a touchscreen and video recording

Fujifilm's new Instax Mini Evo 2 hybrid instant camera is becoming increasingly reminiscent of a traditional digital camera. The camera boasts several enhancements compared to its predecessor, the Instax Mini Evo, making it an intriguing device for photography enthusiasts. One notable improvement is a larger sensor, measuring 1/2.77-inch, up from the 1/5-inch sensor in the earlier model. This upgrade allows for better image quality and greater versatility.

Another significant upgrade is the inclusion of a 4.5-inch rear display with touchscreen controls, replacing the older physical controls. This touchscreen replaces the rear buttons and dials, offering users a more intuitive interface to navigate through the camera's features. The touchscreen control panel also includes dials for adjusting settings, and maintains a film-inspired print lever for convenience.

The Instax Mini Evo 2 introduces basic video recording capabilities, capturing a few seconds before a photo is taken. However, the video quality is limited, with clips saved in MP4 format to a microSD card (with no audio recording) and a resolution of only 560 × 992 pixels, recorded at 24 frames per second. Despite these limitations, the video function is still an unexpected addition to an instant camera.

Fujifilm has also retained other physical controls, such as two dials and the film-inspired print lever. Additionally, the camera offers 10 film and 10 lens effect options, similar to the first Instax Mini Evo. Users can select these effects using either the touchscreen or dials. The camera also allows for manual adjustments to exposure, white balance, and flash settings.

Priced at $290, the Instax Mini Evo 2 will be released at the end of November and will be available in a single color option, black. Despite its retro appearance, the camera aims to appeal to the youth market with its blend of nostalgic design and modern features.