Second Generation Flip MinoHD released in the US

14.10.2009 — Today, Pure Digital announced the second-generation Flip MinoHD for release in the United States. Compared to the previous MinoHD, the new mini-camcorder has just a few notable changes, including a larger storage capacity (increased from 4GB to 8GB), a 2-inch LCD, better video software, and an HDMI output. Pure Digital will continue to offer the customisable surface design, as it does with all Mino camcorders.

This new Flip MinoHD is not replacing the old MinoHD just yet. The minor upgrade will be available in tandem with the original 4GB model, giving consumers the option of recording 120 minutes of high definition video (as opposed to the 60-minute capacity on the previous MinoHD). The new Flip MinoHD also includes an HDMI terminal on the base of the camcorder, but it has done away with the component or AV ports. As with all Flip HD camcorders, the new MinoHD records at a 1280 x 720 resolution and has no video size options or still image capabilities.

The new MinoHD does have a slightly different lens than the older 4GB model. According to Flip, the new MinoHD has a fixed lens that can focus from 0.8m to infinity, while the old MinoHD had a range of 1.5m to infinity. Both camcorders have the same 1/4.5-inch CMOS sensor and use the H.264 video compression system. The new Flip MinoHD does have an upgraded video engine (version 3.5), which may give it a slight improvement in video performance. Flip also added a stereo microphone on the new MinoHD.

The camcorder is available in its standard, "brushed metal" colour (as seen in the photo), or it can be customized with a surface design of your choice. The new Flip MinoHD is available in the states for 229.99 USD, while the older, 4GB model is still available for 199.99 USD. No news yet on when the second generation MinoHD might hit the UK.