Sony releases Wi-Fi picture frame

Japan gets to try it out first

8 May 2008 9:59 GMT / By Verity Burns

We know there are other Wi-Fi digital picture frames out on the market, but we think this new offering from Sony has got to be up there with the best of them.

The Canvas Online VGF-CP1 opens up loads of possibilities thanks to its Wi-Fi connectivity.

You can automatically show photos from your Flickr account, have people email pictures directly to your frame, and display updated weather reports and feeds from your favourite websites.

The clean design also features a rather helpful digital clock displayed in the top left hand corner of the 7-inch screen.

There's plenty of resolution squeezed into this little package too, with an 800 x 480 display - it's just a tad disappointing it's not in a 4 x 3 aspect ratio like the output of most digital cameras. Sony has put this down to cost, but said it would be trying to get some 4 x 3 panels into its line-up soon.

Knowing Sony, you may not be waiting very long. Only 2 months ago the company said that it had no plans to move into the Wi-Fi picture frame arena just yet.

Luckily, it changed its mind. The CP1, available in black or white, goes on sale in Japan on 17 May priced at around £130. No news on when (or if) it'll reach our shores just yet.