Lytro Camera Now Works with Windows PCs

24.07.2012
Lytro, the light-field camera that was supposed to revolutionize photography, now supports Windows PCs.

Until now, only Macs could run Lytro's desktop software, which is required to process and edit the camera's . The new Windows 7 version, available for 64-bit versions of the OS, requires an Intel Core 2 Duo processor (or higher), at least 2GB of RAM, and DirectX 10 graphics.

To celebrate its Windows launch, is offering free shipping on cameras. The cameras are still pricey at $399 for the blue and graphite models (each has 8GB of storage, or room for about 350 pictures), and $499 for the red model, which has 16GB of storage, or room for about 750 pictures. The company also sells a tripod mount and a USB wall charger, each of which is priced at $20.

The Lytro is different from traditional cameras, in that it (11 million of them, to be exact), allowing for post-production adjustments that are impossible on a normal point-and-shoot. Its main gimmick is a "shoot first, focus later" feature, with which users can adjust focus distance even after they've taken the shot.

The first-generation Lytro cameras started shipping in March, after enjoying in the tech press. But the high price of the Lytro, along with hardware shortcomings, resulted in tepid reviews. As , the Lytro suffers from limited exposure controls, a tiny on-camera screen, low-resolution images, and a lack of additional focus capabilities. In other words, it's not a very good traditional camera.

So far, the company hasn't mentioned any plans for a second-generation model. The company's founder, Ren Ng, recently stepped down as CEO but will remain a full-time employee as executive chairman, focusing on product vision, technology, and strategic direction. Charles Chi is serving as interim CEO while the company looks for a replacement.