Fujifilm's Instax Pal 2 adds USB-C so photos transfer straight to a phone

Fujifilm has introduced the Instax Pal 2, a compact digital camera that plugs straight into a phone through a built-in USB-C connector. The new model is available to pre-order now.

A standalone camera, not a printer accessory

The original Instax Pal became Fujifilm's smallest instant camera by separating the sensor from the printer. The Pal 2 takes that idea further and works as a digital camera in its own right, with tactile controls and a set of downloadable color filters.

It is larger than the lump-shaped original and is designed to be used horizontally, much like a Kodak Charmera. Its dimensions are 1.46 x 1.65 x 3.63 inches (37 x 42 x 92mm).

Hardware and controls

The camera uses a 1/3.06-inch CMOS sensor that can switch between 10MP and 1MP photos, with an f/2.2 aperture, an LED flash, autofocus and auto white balance.

Framing and menu navigation rely on two viewfinders: an optical one on the back and a digital one on the top. A digital timer and a flipbook animation-style capture mode are included, but much of the shooting experience comes down to a dial and a lever. The lever selects frames that match different Instax films, while the dial cycles through the color filters and effects you have downloaded.

Transfers, printing and price

Images move to a phone directly over the USB-C connector for further editing. The Pal 2 also supports Bluetooth transfers and can print straight to an Instax Link printer.

PetaPixel's video review flags the camera's slow interface as its main weakness, though the reviewer suggests it is a minor obstacle for anyone already invested in Fujifilm's ecosystem or looking for a more affordable digital camera.

The Fujifilm Instax Pal 2 is available to pre-order now for $170, in all-white or a two-tone silver and black finish.