Originally, we did not want to include a camera in the Redux Model 1, mainly because most of its target users already own a camera phone. But after some discussions, we got convinced that integrating a low-resolution camera next to the tablet’s screen for web conferencing would not be a bad idea. If there is a way to do it without requiring dramatic changes to the Neo 1973’s PCB design, we might as well go for it.

From a form factor standpoint, the camera should be located on the opposite side of the Home button (on the left of the screen on the picture above). When the tablet would be docked on the magnetic keyboard for a web conferencing session, the image sent to remote participants would appear as being shot from the side instead of from above as is the case with an iMac, which is neither better nor worse.

Since the camera’s primary use is web conferencing, a resolution of 1.0 megapixel should be plenty enough. Nevertheless, we might go for as low as VGA (640 x 480) if it makes it easier from an integration standpoint and helps keep retail price under the self-imposed $499 mark. Also, since the Neo 1973 does not include a camera, we might not have all the required software to make it work when we release the Redux Model 1 in September 2008. This is something that could be added later on though.