Opal: this is the name of a new brand of cameras specially designed for Apple computers and financed by Alexis Ohanian (Reddit, Initialized Capital, YC). The first model, the C1, is the first of its kind to feature DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) technology. A significant advantage, given that it is also found on cameras costing several thousand euros such as those available from Sony or Canon.

Also equipped with three omnidirectional microphones, the accessory also offers spatial filtering like the AirPods and probably the upcoming iPhone 13. This system focuses on the user's voice by aiming it directly into space, thus avoiding ambient noise as much as possible. This will therefore logically result in more efficient video calls than with the basic on-board hardware on the Mac.

Design

It has to be said; the C1 is particularly imposing. Surprisingly, the promotional images available on its launch page only show it mounted on a PC, which makes it difficult to realize its presentation with a headed device. Weighing 99 grams, its dimensions approximate those of a medium-sized external battery.

Black in color, the device has an imposing sensor and an indicator light that lets you know when it is running. A hook to mount it at the top of the Mac screen is provided in the box, although Apple does not recommend touching the edges of its panels. As for nomads, they can take advantage of an orange tripod included.

A serious article?

The announcement of this product remains quite opaque for the moment, with only one photo in real conditions available on Ohanian's Twitter:

Indeed, many links on the site, including those relating to the general conditions of sale or the press kit, redirect to a simple sending of e-mail. Odd.

Price and availability

Sold for 300 dollars (the equivalent of approximately 250 euros), the Opal C1 webcam is recharged with a USB-C port, the cable to power it also being supplied on delivery. For the moment, however, the gadget is only available by invitation. A well-known strategy of young shoots to make the buzz.