Digital photo frame
A digital photo frame, or digital picture frame, is a picture frame that uses an LED (light-emitting diode) display instead of holding traditional printed photos. Pictures and videos from your smartphone or computer can be sent to these devices through a dedicated app, a USB (universal serial bus) flash drive, or memory card. Once sent to the frame, pictures can be displayed one at a time, shuffled throughout the day, or played in a specific order.
While some devices serve as dedicated photo frames, many multipurpose smart home devices include this as a bonus feature. The Google Nest Hub, Facebook Portal, and Amazon Echo Show devices, for example, can all display photos as a wallpaper or screen savers, effectively becoming digital photo frames.
Is a digital photo frame worth buying?
Like other digital upgrades to everyday objects, there are pros and cons to digitizing the picture frames in your space.
Advantages of digital photo frames
- Pictures can be quickly updated using a smartphone application.
- There is no need to pay for pictures to be printed.
- Multiple pictures can be shown in a cycle throughout the day.
- Videos and animated GIFs can be played.
Disadvantages of digital photo frames
- Digital photo frames are more expensive than regular frames.
- Internet access is often required to add new photos to your frame.
- Like any electronic device, they are susceptible to electrical issues.
- They require access to a power outlet and use some electricity.