Vivitar’s rugged DVR 690HD pocket camcorder works underwater

Waterproof digicams are pretty common these days, but they really won’t work for everyone. Maybe you want a more compact form factor, maybe you want a device that’s geared specifically for taking videos. Well here’s an option: Vivitar just introduced the DVR 690HD, a pocket camcorder that’s built around a rugged frame that’s waterproof down to 10 feet.

Like other pocket videocams, the DVR 690HD is designed to fit into tight spaces (like a pocket). Because of those restrictions, the device’s screen is a little tight at 2 inches, but makes up for it with an AV cable for connecting it straight to a TV for instant playback on a bigger screen. It’s no low-end toy though. The camera can shoot 720p AVI videos (Motion JPEG format) at 30fps, and records everything on an SD or SDHC card.

The rest of the spec includes a 4x digital zoom, analog mic, LED light and built-in rechargeable battery. The camera also features face detection and anti-shake tech, and comes bundled with software for uploading videos to social media and photo sites such as Facebook, YouTube and Flickr.

It’s due out soon in eight body colors for $60 in the US.