USA - HIMS (www.hims-inc.com) announces the introduction of the industry’s first high-definition 5.0” wide-screen LCD handheld video magnifier for people with low vision.

The device is available in two models, the CANDY P500 and the CANDY GRIP G500—which features a unique ergonomic 3-position handle for center-balance, right-handed or left-handed use. The large 5.0” wide-screen LCD display provides a 4x greater field of view than a similar magnification optical magnifier. The grip makes reading with video magnification easier than ever.

“As the first high-definition device of its kind on the market, the HD image quality produces a 3x higher-resolution from the camera to the LCD,” said James McCarthy, President at HIMS, Inc.—who is himself legally blind. “Both models provide industry-leading features such as continuous zoom magnification,” he said. “This compares with other devices that provide only 3 or 4 preset magnification choices.”

The zoom magnification function ranges from 1.5x-22.5x and easily increases or decreases the size of the text, photo or object being viewed. A center-position camera with auto-focus makes reading easier to follow. In addition, large and conveniently located buttons are easy to find and press.

Each model has a built-in rechargeable lithium battery that will operate for 4.5 hours on a full charge. Weighing less than 10 ounces, it’s easily portable in a coat pocket or purse.

The products are available at www.hims-inc.com where the site provides an easy 3-step check-out making the purchase and shipping of HIMS products easier than ever. The site is also optimized for accessibility and is MSAA and W3 Compliant with screen reader software like JAWS for Windows, Window-Eyes, System Access NVDA, and Hal, and computer magnification software like ZoomText, iZoom, Magic, and SuperNova. The HIMS product line consists of 17 models of Braille and voice notetakers, Braille displays, desktop and portable video magnifiers, and DAISY players. “We greatly value our customers, and helping them to regain their independence and improve their lives is at the core of our business model,” said McCarthy. “We have designed these new products to do just that,” he said.

HIMS will be demonstrating the Candy P500 and the Candy Grip G500 devices at the National Convention of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB) June 30–July 5, 2012 in Dallas, Texas at the Hilton Anatole Hotel and at American Council of the Blind Convention, July 7 -13 held at the Galt House Hotel in Louisville, KY.