Cell phone is a miniature candid camera

KNIGHT RIDDER NEWSPAPERS
The cell-phone-slash-camera craze has been icky. Because you do not always know when someone is taking a picture, the gadgets can be an invasion of privacy. They have been banned at some schools, gyms and businesses.
Now, the Wall Street Journal says, the possibilities are expanded. Say hello to the camera phone with built-in video recording. You can shoot a bit of footage and phone it off to a friend.
The good part is, if your child takes his first step in the park and the camcorder is not handy, you quickly share the moment with Dad or Grandmother, who can watch the pictures on their phones or PCs. Or maybe you finish the marathon and want Mom to know.
But if you spill red wine on your white suit, trip and fall on your face or linger long with someone not your spouse, you may not want someone with a tricky little phone to savor those minutes.
The machines include Nokia's $199 (after rebate) model and Sprint's $379 version. After the Journal's Walter S. Mossberg tested the selection, his conclusion was pragmatic. Wait a while before you spend the money. They'll likely get better.