In 2008, several companies launched the first pocket projectors. This handheld, portable device enables users to cast multiple applications including video and images onto a screen equipped to 50 inches. Pocket projectors connect to a variety of media devices including the iPod, computer, digital camera, and cell phone (Feierman, 2010). At $300 for high-quality, this cost-efficient mobile device creates another element to a collaborative, interactive teaching environment.The major challenges of this technology include improving battery life, brightness, and resolution. Currently, pocket projector developers are making advancements to improve these issues in newer models. Currently, the average battery life ranges from 30 minutes to 2 hours. By 2012, Colegrove (2010) predicts the battery life will extend to 4 hours. The brightness and resolution pales in comparison to the detail of larger digital projectors. However, the demand for this technology is increasing causing significant advances. Colegrove (2010) reports up to 50% better resolution since the first models.
Pocket projectors are designed to be used anywhere. Because the device travels easily, it offers multiple solutions for classroom, business, and entertainment demonstrations. The small size is an noticeable advantage. However, pocket projectors are also eco-friendly, lightweight, compatible with multiple devices, battery-operated, and feature an extended lamp life (Jennifer, 2009). In the classroom, pocket projects offer a simple solution to displaying images, video, and text (Mosotech, 2010). The unlimited learning opportunities will craft lessons that will spark discovery and invoke a spirit of collaboration.
Once sound and visual quality improve, pocket projectors will improve communication in the classroom. The demand for this emerging technology reveals that it is well on its way to becoming emerged. A remote would make this technology even better. Accessing the files from an separate location would add an additional “Wow” factor.
View the following video for a demonstration.
References
Colegrove, J. (2010, November 8). Pocket projectors advance in features, brightness, and battery life [Web log comment]. Retrieved from http://www.displaysearchblog.com/2010/11/pocket-projectors-advance-in-features-brightness-and-battery-life/
Feierman, A. (2010, October). The 2010 pico projector and pocket projector guide and reviews. Retrieved from http://www.projectorreviews.com/pico_projectors/index.php
Jennifer. (2009, February 16). New pocket projectors vs. low-priced lcd projector [Web log comment]. Retrieved from http://articles.projectorpeople.com/home-theater-tech-news/new-pocket-projectors-vs-low-priced-lcd-projector/
Mosotech. (2010, July 4). Pocket projector: The most handy technology is small size for classrooms [Web log comment]. Retrieved from http://moso-technology.com/2010/07/pocket-projector-the-most-handy-technology-is-small-size-for-classrooms/
