Piilolins

Piilolins are a type of small, lightweight, and portable electronic device designed primarily for capturing and recording audio. The name "Piilolins" is derived from the Finnish words *piilokamera* (hidden camera) and *linsit* (lenses), though the devices themselves are not cameras but rather audio recorders. They are often used in journalism, podcasting, and field reporting due to their discreet size and high-quality recording capabilities.

Piilolins are typically compact, measuring just a few centimeters in length, and can be concealed in pockets, attached to clothing, or even worn as accessories like earrings or rings. They feature built-in microphones capable of capturing clear audio in various environments, from bustling streets to quiet interviews. Many models also include additional features such as voice activation, automatic recording, and the ability to store multiple hours of audio on internal memory or via microSD cards.

The devices gained prominence in the early 2010s, particularly in Finland, where they were developed by the company *Piilolins Oy*. Their design was inspired by the need for journalists and researchers to document conversations without drawing attention to themselves. Piilolins have since been adopted by media outlets worldwide for investigative reporting, allowing reporters to record interviews or ambient sounds covertly.

While Piilolins are legal to use in many contexts, their use raises ethical and legal considerations, particularly regarding privacy and consent. In some jurisdictions, recording conversations without the knowledge of all parties may be prohibited or restricted. As a result, users are advised to familiarize themselves with local laws and ethical guidelines before employing such devices.

Beyond journalism, Piilolins have found applications in education, law enforcement, and even creative projects like documentary filmmaking. Their versatility and portability continue to make them a valuable tool for professionals seeking high-quality audio recording in discreet settings.