Sony announces DSC-W650, DSC-W620 and DSC-W610

The newest additions to Sony’s Cyber-shot® line of point-and-shoot cameras deliver powerful new features for consumers, ranging from 360 Sweep Panorama™ and image stabilization technologies to creative picture effects. These new entry-level cameras pack high performance into a compact body, allowing users to take high-quality, creative photos with ease.

The stylish and compact new lineup include the DSC-W610, DSC-W620 and DSC-W650 models.

Small Cameras, Big Features

The compact DSC-W610, DSC-W620 and DSC-W650 cameras feature Sony’s new 360 Sweep Panorama™ mode. Users can now capture beautiful, seamless 360 degree panoramic images of the entire surrounding landscape with one easy “press and sweep” motion. Multiple images are automatically stitched together to create one stunning, detailed panoramic photo.

Additionally, the “Intelligent Auto” mode allows the cameras to automatically optimize camera settings based on the external environment. They analyze focus, lighting, subjects and more, selecting the appropriate scene mode to realize a clear, high-quality image output with ease. Further, in order to reduce image blur often caused by camera shake and subject motion, the DSC-W610 and DSC-W620 cameras feature SteadyShot® image stabilization. The DSC-W650 model offers enhanced Optical SteadyShot™ functionality and also boasts a 16.1 mega pixel Super HAD™ CCD image sensor.

The new DSC-W620 and W650 cameras also feature HD Movie mode (720p) as well as four “Picture Effect” options which can be used to create customized, artistic images. The full list of effects includes Toy Camera, Partial Color, Pop Color and Soft High-key.

Product Specs, Pricing and Availability

The cameras and an expanded range of stylish accessories, including the new LCS-CS1, LCS-CS2, LCS-TWM and LCM-CSVH carrying cases, will be sold at Sony retail stores (www.store.sony.com) as well as other authorized retailers throughout the Sony dealer network. New camera specs are below:

The DSC-W610 camera will be available in silver, black, pink, green and blue later this month for approximately $110. Features include:

• 14.1 MP Super HAD CCD image sensor
• 26mm equivalent lens with 4x optical zoom, 2.7-inch LCD screen
• Capture breathtaking images with new 360 Sweep Panorama mode
• SteadyShot image stabilization reduces blur
• Intelligent Auto mode automatically optimizes camera settings based on outside shooting environment

The DSC-W620 camera will be available in silver, black and red this February for approximately $120. Features include:

• 14.1 MP Super HAD CCD image sensor
• 28mm equivalent lens with 5x optical zoom, 2.7 inch LCD screen
• 4 total “Picture Effects”, allowing for creative, custom styled photographs
• Capture your videos in HD Movie mode (720p)
• Capture breathtaking images with new 360 Sweep Panorama mode
• Intelligent Auto mode with 33 scene recognition patterns, SteadyShot image stabilization

The DSC-W650 camera will be available in silver, black and red this February for approximately $150. Features include:

• 16.1 MP Super HAD CCD image sensor
• 25mm equivalent lens with 5x optical zoom, 3.0-inch LCD screen
• 4 total “Picture Effects”, allowing for creative, custom styled photographs
• Capture your videos in HD Movie mode (720p) enhanced with Optical SteadyShot Active Mode
• Intelligent Auto mode with 33 scene recognition patterns, 360 Sweep Panorama mode, Optical SteadyShot image stabilization

Sony launches DSC-TX55 touch-screen CMOS compact

With an exceptionally slim and stylish design, Sony’s new DSC-TX55 Cyber-shot camera makes it easy to capture any moment with high-quality still photos, full high-definition video and amazing 3D images, providing consumers with the ultimate in creative control of their photos and videos.

The DSC-TX55 camera features a range of innovative new technologies, including “By Pixel Super Resolution” technology, which boosts the cameras’ zoom range to a virtual 10x without losing quality at the image sensor’s maximum resolution (16.2 million pixels). The new model is also the first Cyber-shot camera to offer a “Picture Effect” mode, which expands a shooter’s artistic possibilities without the need for editing software.

“Our new DSC-TX55 model redefines what a compact camera can do,” said Yosuke Tomoda, director of Sony Electronics’ Cyber-shot business. “In addition to the newly developed, ultra-thin chassis design, the camera features an incredible combination of features and performance, putting more creativity at users’ fingertips than ever before.”

The TX55 boasts a 16.2 megapixel, highly sensitive Exmor R™ CMOS sensor that delivers incredible image detail and ultra-low picture noise in both still images and Full HD video – even in low light conditions. Also the camera’s hi-speed auto focus can lock onto subject in as little as 0.1 seconds, letting users grab the most fleeting photo moments with ease.

Pricing and Availability

The new Sony Cyber-shot™ TX55 camera will be available for about $350 this September at Sony stores, www.sonystyle.com and other authorized retailers throughout the Sony Dealer Network.

Sony announces DSC-WX30 CMOS-based compact camera

Sony has announced the WX30, a 5x zoom camera with 16.2MP backlit CMOS sensor. The lens covers a 25-125mm equivalent zoom and uses the company's 'By Pixel Super Resolution' image processing to provide the 'Clear Image Zoom' feature claimed to double the effective zoom range at full resolution. It also gains the same 'Picture Effect' image filters as the TX55, along with a 3.0" (7.5cm) 920,000 dot, touch-sensitive LCD screen. It uses the CMOS chip's fast read-out to provide 10 fps continuous shooting in a burst of up to 10 shots as well as 1080i50 HD movie shooting (on the European variant).

No word yet on US availability for the WX30; however, Sony Europe notes that the WX30 will be available there in September.

Sony unleashes five Cyber-shots

Sony today unveiled five new Cyber-shot® digital still cameras that make it easy to get DSLR-like quality still images, stunning 3D photos and high-quality full HD videos.

Sony has designed five new innovative 16.2-megapixel Cyber-shot cameras (models DSC-TX100V, DSC-TX10, DSC-HX7V, DSC-WX10 and DSC-WX9) that are the They also have innovative Dual Rec (record) technology, for taking still photos during video capture. The DSC-TX100V camera is the world’s first compact digital still camera to include full HD (1920 x 1080/60p) video capability. This format provides the least distortion for playback on a high definition television.

The TX100V is also the first Cyber-shot camera with a 3.5-inch OLED with touch screen that provides deeper blacks and more vibrant color contrast on the screen, all while being thinner and having a faster response time than most LCDs. It’s also useful when shooting movies. Additionally, the DSC-WX10 camera is one of the only digital still cameras to include a high-speed linear auto focus feature that provides quick and precise focusing similar to the speed of a DSLR camera.

“Sony is one of the first camera manufacturers in the industry to provide a 16.2MP CMOS sensor, which is a great benefit for consumers,” said Kelly Davis, director of the digital imaging group at Sony Electronics. “They are getting the best image quality as well as all of the benefits of the “Exmor R” CMOS sensor technology in very compact, stylish cameras.”

With Sony’s 16.2-megapixel “Exmor R” back-illuminated CMOS sensor technology, these models provide excellent low-light performance, up to 10fps burst shooting and the Intelligent Sweep Panorama™ feature.

“The DSC-WX10 and DSC-WX9 Cyber-shot cameras are technology packed CMOS models providing the consumer with great “Exmor R” features such as low light, 3D Still Image/3D Sweep Panorama mode and AVCHD™ video all in a compact size with a wide, bright lens,” Davis added. “The DSC-HX7V camera builds upon the success of last year’s DSC-HX5Vand continues to improve, while addressing the growth in the compact high-zoom camera segment. With the best of Sony’s technologies, the DSC-TX100V is an ultra slim, sleek camera that can go anywhere and do everything. Its sibling, the DSC-TX10 camera, is a technology-packed, ultra slim, fashionable T-series camera that is also durable.”

Features & Additional images

The DSC-TX100V will be available in silver, black and red for about USD380 in March. Features include:

• 3.5-inch OLED with touch screen for easy focus selection and photo viewing
• 1080@60p: preserve moments in stunning HD clarity. (No function of Dual Rec when using the 60p record mode)
• 16.2-megapixel “Exmor R” CMOS sensor for stunning low-light performance
• 3D Still Image and 3D Sweep Panorama modes change the way you view your world
• GPS and Compass records the shot location and direction.

The DSC-TX10 camera will be available in silver, black, green, blue and pink this March for about USD330. Features include:

• Waterproof, dustproof, shockproof and freeze-proof
• 3-inch wide LCD with touch screen for easy focus selection and photo viewing
• 1080i Movie records high-quality Full HD movies
• 16.2-megapixel “Exmor R” CMOS sensor for stunning low-light performance; 3D still image and 3D Sweep Panorama modes change the way you view your world

The DSC-HX7V will be available in black, white, red and blue this March for about USD300. Features include:

• Full HD 1080@60i with Dual Rec of stills and movies
• Sony® G lens with 10x optical zoom in a compact camera body
• Fast capture with up to 10fps at full 16.2-megapixel resolution; “Exmor R” CMOS sensor for exceptional low-light performance
• 3D Still Image and 3D Sweep Panorama modes change the way you view your world
• GPS and Compass record shot location and direction

The DSC-WX10 camera will be available in black this March for about USD280. Features include:

• Fast capture with up to 10fps at full 16.2-megapixel resolution; “Exmor R” CMOS sensor for low-light performance, 7x bright F2.4 lens; 24mm wide angle lens and Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization
• Full HD 1080@60i with Dual Rec of stills and movies
• Backlight Correction HDR enables crisp details in difficult lighting
• Manual operation puts the control back in your hands
• 3D Still Image and 3D Sweep Panorama modes change the way you view your world

The DSC-WX9 will be available in black, silver and red for about USD220 in March. Features include:

• “Exmor R” CMOS sensor for stunning low-light performance, 5x 24m wide angle bright lens
• Fast capture with up to 10fps at full 16.2-megapixel
• Full HD 1080@60i with Dual Rec of stills and movies
• 3D Still Image and 3D Sweep Panorama modes change the way you view your world
• Backlight Correction HDR enables crisp details in difficult lighting; Background Defocus highlights your subject like a DSLR

Sony unveils world's slimmest rugged compact

Cyber-shot™ by Sony is all about catching life’s amazing moments, whatever you’re doing. It’s never been more true with the water, dust, shock and freeze-proof new Cyber-shot™ TX5: Sony’s first ever camera with high-fashion looks that handles just about anything your active lifestyle can throw at it.

At just 17.7mm slim, it’s the world’s thinnest and smallest* waterproof digital still camera. You’ve never seen another weatherproof camera like it: available in five stunning colours (black, silver, pink, green, red), the TX5 is equally at home on smart nights out or on chilly mud-splattered cycle treks.

Whether you’re skiing, swimming, hiking – or just partying hard – the toughest ever Cyber-shot™ keeps pace with the action. Waterproof down to 3m**, the TX5 lets you keep shooting in the pool or while you’re snorkelling. You can even adjust settings on the intuitive 7.5cm (3”) LCD touchscreen while you’re underwater or wearing gloves.

This tough performer also shrugs off dust, and can keep shooting after being dropped from a height of 1.5m***. The TX5 can even deal with freezing conditions down to -10◦C, making Sony’s newest Cyber-shot™ an ideal companion for skiing trips or gruelling adventure weekends.

Beneath the tough exterior you’ll find some equally serious imaging features. With a resolution of 10.2 effective megapixels, the advanced Exmor R™ CMOS Sensor ensures detail-packed pictures, with superlative low-noise imaging performance in low light. It’s a perfect complement for the superb Carl Zeiss lens with 4x optical zoom and 25mm wide angle for perfectly framed shots – from intimate portraits to dramatic travel scenes.

The power packed combination of Exmor R™ CMOS sensor and BIONZ processor enables full resolution continuous burst shooting at up to a blazing 10 frames per second – helping you capture even more unique moments. Handheld Twilight and Anti Motion Blur modes benefit from a high-speed burst of six frames, cutting picture noise by up to 50% for crisp, natural results in low-light conditions where other compact cameras struggle.

Intelligent Sweep Panorama enhances an acclaimed Cyber-shot™ feature. It’s so easy to use: just press the shutter button once and sweep the camera across the scene. The TX5 automatically stitches together a burst of high resolution frames to create a single extra wide image. Perfect for landscapes or big family gatherings, this feature now offers improved processing for seamless panoramas, even when people are moving in the frame.

The enhanced touchscreen interface makes operation easier than ever. Flick a fingertip to scroll though your images, or drag frequently used functions onto the main menu screen for easy access. Touch an icon on the widescreen LCD and the camera switches instantly to HD movie shooting mode, regardless of your current camera settings. With the new Cyber-shot™ TX5 it’s never been easier to grab that ‘once in a lifetime’ moment.

Also available this Spring, the new Cyber-shot™ H55 offers superb optical performance in a compact, elegantly styled body that’s great for travel or everyday shooting.

Assuring detailed, low-noise images, the 14.1 effective megapixel sensor is teamed with a high performance G Lens. Unique to Sony, this premium lens offers a powerful 10x optical zoom range to handle virtually any shooting situation – from wide angle landscapes and group shots to dramatic close-ups.

Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation is enhanced with Active Mode that now offers up to 10x more shake correction while you’re shooting HD video. You’ll enjoy the clearest, steadiest handheld clips yet – even while you’re walking along.

Other features include Sweep Panorama, 720p HD movie recording, Face Detection/Smile Shutter and Intelligent Auto mode for fuss-free shooting in any situation.

Like all models in the 2010 Cyber-shot™ line-up, the TX5 and H55 give you the freedom to select Memory Stick™ PRO Duo, Memory Stick™ PRO-HG, SD or SDHC memory cards to suit your personal preference. Both new cameras are also compatible with a wide range of official Cyber-shot™ accessories by Sony.

A generous range of accessories for the TX5 includes the LCS-THQ – a soft, fashionable case in a choice of colours that uses water repellent materials to dry the camera while carrying it. There’s also the STP-FSA floating strap that safeguards against losing the camera while you’re in the water.

The new Cyber-shot™ DSC-TX5 and DSC-H55 compact digital still cameras are available from end March 2010.

Sony unleashes twelve Cyber-shot compact cameras

Incredible picture quality and great fun to use:

This season’s slim, colourful new Cyber-shot cameras

• Cyber-shot HX5: Imaging innovation with Exmor R CMOS Sensor; G lens with 25mm wide angle and 10x optical zoom; Intelligent Sweep Panorama; AVCHD 1080i Full HD movie; GPS and Compass; Optical SteadyShot Active Mode; Auto HDR
• Cyber-shot W380: Compact, colourful and affordable with 14.1 effective megapixels; f/2.4 G Lens with 24mm wide angle and 5x optical zoom; Sweep Panorama; HD movie
• Cyber-shot TX7: Super-slim and stylish with Exmor R CMOS Sensor, 25mm wide angle lens, 8.9cm (3.5”) TruBlack wide touchscreen; Intelligent Sweep Panorama; AVCHD 1080i Full HD movie; Optical SteadyShot Active Mode; Auto HDR
• Spring’s Cyber-shot line-up is bursting with advanced optical technologies and fun-to-use features that help you capture, share and enjoy a lifetime of precious moments.

A total of twelve new digital cameras from Sony make it easier than ever to grab great-looking photos that really stand out from the crowd.

Cyber-shot HX5: Compact high-zoom with AVCHD and GPS

Inside its compact, purposefully styled new body, the Cyber-shot HX5 houses an incredible wealth of cutting-edge imaging innovation by Sony.

With twice the sensitivity of conventional sensors, the advanced Exmor R CMOS Sensor assures beautifully detailed, low-noise images, even when you’re shooting in low light. It’s a perfect complement for the premium G Lens by Sony with powerful 10x optical zoom. Covering a generous 25-250mm range (35mm equivalent) within a compact body, the high-zoom lens is ideal for any shooting situation from wide-angle landscapes and group shots to dramatic close-ups.

Left your camcorder behind? No problem: as well as brilliant 10.1 megapixel stills, the HX5 captures smooth, brilliantly detailed Full HD video clips for easy sharing. Just touch a button and start recording crisp 1920 x 1080i video footage using the highly efficient AVCHD format. After shooting, connect Cyber-shot to your BRAVIA™ TV and enjoy the show. Alternatively, slip the camera’s Memory Stick™ into the optional DVDirect MC6: you don’t need a PC to burn HD footage onto a DVD to enjoy on your PS3 or Blu-ray Disc™ player.

Optical SteadyShot with new Active Mode cuts camera-shake while you’re shooting handheld HD video. Providing up to 10x more shake correction than conventional cameras, Active Mode gives the clearest, steadiest handheld clips yet – even while you’re walking along.

In a world first, Intelligent Sweep Panorama enhances the unique feature first introduced on last year’s Cyber-shot HX1, TX1 and WX1 models. It’s now easier than ever to create seamless extra-wide angle views, even with moving objects. The camera detects if people or other objects are moving in your field of view as you sweep the camera, using powerful new algorithms to compensate for any mis-matching as images are automatically stitched together.

The HX5 is also the world’s first camera that integrates GPS and Compass functions to enhance your enjoyment of travel photography. Your location is displayed in real time on the large 7.6cm (3”) Clear Photo LCD screen as you’re shooting. When you’re back home, see where geotagged images and video clips were shot as on-line maps with supplied Picture Motion Browser PC software. As an extra refinement, a new Compass function shows which direction you were pointing when the picture was taken.

Making its Cyber-shot debut, HDR (High Dynamic Range) Backlight Correction produces natural, balanced results with high contrast and strongly backlit scenes – a tough test for any camera. The HX5 automatically shoots two frames of the same scene in quick succession, with exposure values optimised for highlights and lowlights respectively. Powerful algorithms then combine the two frames, producing a single, detail-packed HDR image with bright, evenly-exposed highlights and deep shadow detail.

A brand new Portrait shooting mode takes the guesswork out of grabbing beautifully-framed self portraits when you can’t see the LCD screen. Just hold the camera at arm’s length and press the shutter button. Using Face Detection, Cyber-shot detects when you’re framed correctly and fires the shutter automatically. There’s also a 2-person setting that ensures you and a friend are both in shot before firing the shutter.

Cyber-shot W380: leading design and performance

The popular Cyber-shot W Series expands with eight slim, colourful cameras packed with smart features to help everyone take better-looking pictures.

Available in luxurious choice of black, silver, gold and red colour options, the range-leading Cyber-shot W380 showcases an incredible array of imaging innovation at a compelling price.

Sweep Panorama makes it uniquely fun and easy to capture landscapes, city skylines, group portraits and more. Just press the shutter button and sweep the camera to take in the whole scene. Sweep Panorama automatically stitches together a burst of images in moments, creating a single ultra-wide image with a huge field of view up to 185 degrees.

Even slimmer and more compact than its predecessor, it boasts a bright f/2.4 Sony G lens with 5x optical zoom and 24mm wide angle to take full advantage of the CCD sensor’s 14.1 effective megapixel resolution. With an extra wide aperture, this high-quality lens opens up fresh creative possibilities, from smoothly-defocused portraits to atmospheric low-light shooting without flash.

Cyber-shot TX7: ultra-slim looks… and now with Full HD movies

When cutting-edge looks matter as much as fabulous images, the chic lines of the Cyber-shot TX7 stand out from the crowd. Exquisitely finished in a choice of three fashion colours, the slender body conceals a Carl Zeiss 4x optical zoom lens. Unusually for such a thin camera, the 25mm wide angle capability gives you freedom to pack more into each scene – from dramatic landscapes to group scenes and atmospheric portraits.

The generously-sized wide 8.9cm (3.5”) touchscreen LCD and streamlined user interface makes operation beautifully simple. TruBlack screen technology minimises reflections and boosts contrast for a richly detailed view of your shots, even when you’re outdoors in bright daylight.

The Cyber-shot TX7 also features Intelligent Sweep Panorama and 1080i HD video shooting – all accessed in an instant from the intuitive touchscreen.

Share the memories in a moment with PMB Portable

All new Cyber-shot models feature in-built Picture Motion Browser (PMB) Portable software. Just connect the camera via USB to any Internet-ready PC: with just a few clicks it’s easy to upload pictures and video clips directly from Cyber-shot to your favourite image and video sharing sites on the web.

A slot for Memory Stick PRO Duo and SD/SDHC memory cards (sold separately) is offered on all new models to suit users’ personal shooting preferences.

There’s a full range of official accessories by Sony to help you get the best from your Cyber-shot. You’ll never miss another shooting opportunity with the latest generation of InfoLITHIUM™ rechargeable batteries for Cyber-shot. An enhanced new design ensures super-long shooting plus rapid charging in a slim, light, space-saving profile.

The new Cyber-shot line-up of digital still cameras is available from end of January 2010:

Cyber-shot DSC-HX5

Cyber-shot DSC-W390, W380, W370, W360, W350, W330, W320, W310

Cyber-shot DSC-TX7

Cyber-shot DSC-S2100, S2000

Sony Cyber-shot W180 and W190 unveiled

Sony unveiled the new Cyber-shot W180 and W190 pocket cameras with high smart zoom features.

Smart zoom boosts maximum magnification to a frame-filling 18x for the Cyber-shot W190 and 17x for Cyber-shot W180. Both cameras have a 3x optical zoom.

Other features of the W180 and W190 are 10.1/12.1 effective megapixels, 2.7" Clear Photo LCD screen, SteadyShot and High Sensitivity ISO 3200, Improved Face Detection recognizes up to 8 faces in a scene and Smile Shutter.

The new Sony W180 and W190 come in silver, black and red. The Cyber-shot W180 and W190 compact digital cameras are available from July 2009 in Europe.

Via: Sony Europe

Sony DSC-HX1 Review by DPReview

DPReview have posted their review of the Sony DSC-HX1. Quotes from the review, "The HX1 presents a very attractive package to the potential buyer. The large and versatile zoom range that extends from moderate wide angle to extreme telephoto, the HD video recording, very fast continuous shooting speeds, and unique shooting modes all contained in a well built, mini-SLR style body all go some way to tugging at your purse strings."

You can read the full review HERE.

Sony introduces DSC-HX1 with Exmor CMOS sensor

Sony is spotlighting its first digital still camera to feature sweep panorama technology here at the Photo Marketing Association confab. The new HX1 Cyber-shot model can take 224-degree panorama shots in one easy press-and-sweep motion. 

It is also the company’s first Cyber-shot camera to use the exclusive 1/2.4-inch Exmor™ CMOS sensor technology. This technology allows it to achieve burst speeds of 10 frames per second at full 9.1 megapixel resolution in continuous burst mode. 

Setting it apart from most digital still cameras, which use an electronic shutter to achieve high speed, the HX1 unit has a mechanical shutter that helps reduce distortion when shooting a moving subject.

Compared to images shot with traditional sensors, the HX1 model takes clearer images with about 50 percent less noise when in handheld twilight or anti-blur modes. It is also the first Cyber-shot camera include a Sony G lens and 1080p HD movie clip recording capabilities.

“Traditional CMOS sensor technology provides higher shutter speeds, but we are using what we call an Image3 system that combines the best image, sensor and processor,” said Karim Noblecilla, senior product marketing manager in Sony Electronics’ Digital Imaging Division. “By combining this sensor with a high-quality Sony G lens and powerful BIONZ™ processor, we are able to create solutions beyond fast speed that helps consumers get better pictures.” 

Incorporating on-chip A/D conversion, which minimizes image degradation that can occur during analogue processing, Noblecilla said the Exmor CMOS sensor delivers outstanding images, reduces noise and can continuously shoot at a high speeds. 

For more info, click HERE.

Sony unleashes five new Cyber-shots

Sony today announced five new Cyber-shot® cameras (models DSC-T900, DSC-T90, DSC-W290, DSC-W230 and DSC-H20) that make it easier to take the best pictures without changing settings.

The intelligent auto mode, available on the T900, T90, W290 and H20 models helps “think” for you and detect scene conditions then adjust settings, especially in difficult lighting scenarios.

“This camera provides a seamless experience,” said Karim Noblecilla, senior product marketing manager in Sony Electronics’ Digital Imaging Division. “You can go from a walk in the park to taking pictures of a flower and then back to beautiful landscapes or indoor birthday parties, and the camera will know what to do to get the best shot.”

Additionally, intelligent auto mode enhances pictures of faces to capture natural skin tones, identifies when your subject has closed eyes, and helps reduce blur without damaging image quality.

Sony has combined three key technologies to make these cameras smarter.

Intelligent scene recognition (iSCN) detects up to eight scenes, recognizing objects, faces and lighting conditions (e.g. low light and backlight). Then, in one-thirtieth of a second, it changes the setting to get the best shot.

Face detection registers up to eight faces; adjusts focus, exposure, white balance and flash; and detects motion. This intelligent camera combines face detection with iSCN, featuring blink detection. It takes two pictures and saves the one in which the subject’s eyes are the least shut.

The W290 and H20 cameras also have selected-face memory, allowing you to zero in on the main subject’s face. The next time the camera detects the priority face in the frame, it will automatically focus on that person.

The W230 model has iSCN that detects up to five scene conditions, face detection with child and adult priority, and the Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization feature. You can turn on these features in auto mode to make the W230 camera intelligent.

All of the new cameras have the Optical SteadyShot feature and Smile Shutter™ technology. The Optical SteadyShot image stabilization feature helps prevent blur due to camera shake without impacting image quality. Equipped with Sony’s Smile Shutter technology, these cameras automatically capture a smile the moment it happens.

Another advanced feature that sets these cameras apart from most digital still cameras is iSCN advanced. Noblecilla said the iAuto feature increases the chances of getting a great shot. You can also set up iSCN advanced as a permanent feature. When the scene has difficult lighting such as backlight or low light, the camera will take two shots within a fraction of a second using two alternative settings, so you can select which picture you prefer.

More info can be viewed HERE.

Sony introduces Wi-Fi enabled Cyber-shot DSC-G3

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 8, 2009 – With a focus on making photo sharing easier and more convenient, Sony today introduced the world’s first Wi-Fi® enabled digital camera that uploads photos and videos to Web sites through any public hotspot due to its built-in Web browser.

The new Cyber-shot DSC-G3 digital still camera answers one of the most pressing needs for photo enthusiasts: how to share those amazing photos and video clips of family, friends and events as soon as you shoot. The Cyber-shot camera makes it easy to upload images and video directly to popular photo and video sharing sites wherever a Wi-Fi connection is available.

“Research shows that our customers greatly value sharing images and video clips, but they often forget or don’t have enough time if they wait to get home to upload images,” said Phil Lubell, director of digital camera marketing at Sony Electronics. “Our new Cyber-shot DSC-G3 camera provides the simplicity and convenience of sharing in the moment, while the impulse is still fresh in people’s minds.”

The camera can wirelessly connect to any public hotspot, including hotels, restaurants, coffee shops and airports. Like a computer, the camera can connect to free or fee-based hotspots, as well as to secure and unsecured access points.

The new DSC-G3 model comes with complimentary AT&T Wi-Fi access to Sony’s Easy Upload Home Page until Jan. 31, 2012. It includes Wi-Fi access at thousands of AT&T hotspots across the United States, including participating coffee shops, selected book stores and major quick-serve restaurant locations, as well as hundreds of upscale hotels and airports.

“By collaborating with Sony to launch the first digital still camera with embedded access to AT&T Wi-Fi service, we’re enabling consumers to gain quick and convenient access to the Internet through thousands of hotspots across the country,” said Glenn Lurie, president of AT&T’s emerging device organization. “The wireless capabilities and cutting-edge features of the G3 camera with the reliable coverage of AT&T’s Wi-Fi network offers a unique, unmatched consumer experience.”

Uploads Made Easy

The new camera makes it easy to connect to the Internet and upload images. By pressing the WLAN button on the camera, you can open its embedded Web browser.

After connecting to the Internet via wireless access points, the camera automatically navigates to the Sony Easy Upload Home Page, which includes direct links to photo sharing sites like Shutterfly™ and Picasa™ Web Albums; video sharing sites like YouTube™ and Dailymotion™; and a photo and video sharing site, such as Photobucket™. Also, the DSC-G3 camera allows you to access other sharing sites for uploading photos and videos through its Web browser.

Through the Sony Easy Upload Home Page, you can send e-mail notifications from the sharing Web sites to let friends and family know that you have posted new images and videos for viewing. This is perfect for sharing with loved ones that were not with you when you took the pictures or shot the videos.

When friends and family are nearby, you can use the camera to access photos you may have already uploaded to sharing sites and display them on its high resolution 3.5-inch LCD screen.

The camera supports DLNA (Digital Living Network Alliance) guidelines. By connecting to such DLNA-compatible devices as Sony BRAVIA® televisions via access points, photos in the camera can be played back with high-definition quality. In addition to BRAVIA TVs, the camera can connect to other DLNA-compatible devices, such as Sony VAIO® PCs

Smart Camera

In addition to its wireless sharing capabilities, the new camera is built for high-performance imaging. The 10-megapixel camera is about three-fourths of an inch thin and includes a 4X optical zoom Carl Zeiss® Vario-Tessar lens. Although compact enough to fit in the camera’s slim dimention, this lens provides excellent sharpness and color accuracy.

The Intelligent Scene Recognition™ feature automatically identifies a total of eight types of scenes — backlight, backlight portrait, twilight, twilight portrait, twilight using a tripod, portrait, landscape and macro — and automatically optimizes camera settings for each challenging shooting situation, taking an additional shot in low and bright light scenarios.

With Sony’s Face Detection technology, the DSC-G3 camera detects faces in a scene and adjusts auto focus (AF), auto exposure (AE), flash and white balance accordingly. It can also distinguish between children and adults, allowing users to to prioritize faces according to their preference .

Combining the Intelligent Scene Recognition feature with Face Detection technology, the camera includes an anti-blink function that helps make closed-eye photos a thing of the past. The camera automatically takes two shots and then determines whether the subject(s) have closed eyes. It will record images with open-eyed subjects. If both pictures have subject(s) with closed eyes, the cameras will record one and display a warning so you can try again.

Sony’s Smile Shutter™ technology automatically captures a smile the moment it happens. You can use the adult or child priority setting when shooting scenes containing both adults and children, and the camera will distinguish one face from another.

The camera’s Dynamic Range Optimizer (DRO) determines the best exposure and contrast settings in almost any shooting environment, giving images a natural look with clearer details that match what you see with your naked eye. DRO also balances the contrast in scenes with strong highlight and shadow, recovering detail normally lost in shadow areas. Combining the benefits of Optical SteadyShot™ image stabilization with high sensitivity mode, Sony’s Double Anti-blur feature helps reduce camera shake blur, especially when there is low light.

Photo Library

The Cyber-shot DSC-G3 model is also a “photo album in your pocket” and has 4GB of internal memory that can store nearly 1,000 full-resolution or 40,000 VGA-quality photos. The 3.5-inch (measured diagonally) wide touch panel Xtra Fine LCD™ screen is perfect for photo-like viewing with high contrast and wide-angle viewing. This Xtra Fine LCD screen delivers high resolution images (921,600 dots) that is approximately four times higher than conventional LCDs.

The camera also makes it easy to sort thousands of images. While shooting, images are organized automatically in albums by date. All images in an album can be displayed simultaneously as thumbnails on the screen, and the desired image can quickly be selected.

There are four ways to view photos: standard folder view, date view, favorites and event view. Images can be stored and managed on both the camera’s 4GB internal memory and an optional Memory Stick® media card.

In addition to the in-camera organization and search functionality, bundled Picture Motion Browser (PMB) software allows you to quickly organize images on a compatible PC. The software lets you search and organize images by event or face, and you can display images in calendar or chronological views organized into folders.

Pricing and Availability

The Cyber-shot DSC-G3 camera is now available in black for about USD500.

Sony Announced Cyber-shot W220, W210 and S950

Three new Cyber-shot™ cameras from Sony make unforgettable images beautifully affordable. Packed with smart features like Smile Shutter and Intelligent Scene Recognition, the Cyber-shot™ W220 and W210 are your passport to gorgeous photos with more fun and less fuss. When real value counts as much as great pictures, the colourful Cyber-shot™ S950 puts unbeatable Sony quality within everyone’s reach.

Cyber-shot™ W220 and W210

The two latest additions to the stylish Cyber-shot™ W Series take the hard work out of capturing amazing images, whatever you’re doing.

Sporting a super-high resolution of 12.1 effective megapixels, the W220 and W210 feature a top-quality Carl Zeiss lens with 4x optical zoom to bring your favourite subjects closer. Both models also feature SteadyShot image stabilisation (W220: Optical SteadyShot). Coupled with high sensitivity (max ISO 3200), this reduces camera shake for crisper pictures when you’re shooting handheld without a tripod.

Smile Shutter captures more happy moments and is great fun to use, it automatically fires the shutter when someone smiles. Adjustable to prioritise children’s or adults’ smiles, it’s perfect for relaxed, informal portraits. Smile Shutter also works in conjunction with Face Detection. This fine-tunes focus, exposure, white balance and skin tones for beautiful portraits.

Both new W-Series models also feature Intelligent Scene Recognition for simpler shooting in difficult conditions. This automatically adjusts camera settings for best results in a range of commonly-encountered situations like backlit scenes or twilight portraits.

Detail-packed pictures can be enjoyed on the large, clear 2.7-inch LCD screen. High Definition slideshows with music add an extra dimension of fun to viewing your shots - either on the LCD screen or a connected BRAVIA™ television. PhotoTV HD means even more vibrant, colourful images when the camera is connected to a compatible BRAVIA™ TV (requires optional HD cable).

Cyber-shot™ S950

Available in a choice of stylish silver, pink or black finishes, the easy-to-use Cyber-shot™ S950 is your perfect introduction to the world of beautiful digital images.

Image quality stands out, thanks to a generous 10.1 effective megapixel resolution and powerful 4x zoom lens to bring your subject closer. There’s a large 2.7-inch screen for viewing your shots in comfort. First-time camera users won’t be confused by simple shooting menus and a choice of six easy-to-use Scene Selection modes. There’s also an Easy Shooting mode that simplifies operation while offering helpful on-screen instructions.

Originally introduced on high-end Cyber-shot™ models, enhanced Face Detection can track up to eight faces in a scene, fine-tuning focus and exposure for beautiful portraits. SteadyShot image stabilisation compensates for camera-shake. In tandem with a special High Sensitivity mode (max. ISO 3200), it’s the key to crisp, beautiful images – especially when you’re shooting indoors or in low light without a tripod.

All new Cyber-shot™ models include Picture Motion Browser version 4.0 (S950) and version 4.2 (W210 and W220). The latest version of Sony’s image management application simplifies sorting, viewing and searching through photos and video clips stored on your PC’s hard drive. There’s also a wide range of optional accessories available to help you get even more from your Cyber-shot™.

There have been three new designs of soft carry cases introduced to protect the main unit against scratches and dust. The first, a genuine leather case available in four colours (Black, Red, Brown & White) – LCS-CSVA. The second, a pressed leather case in a different design also in four colours (Black, Blue, Green & Pink) – LCS-CSVB and lastly a casual soft carrying case with six colour variations (Black, Green, Silver, Pink, Brown & Blue) – LCS-CSVC.

A newly developed GPS unit kit GPS-CS3KA can put geotag data on pictures taken by Cyber-shot™ , these can then be viewed on maps with Google Earth™ software and uploaded on major web sharing services. The key benefits over the previous model are higher sensitivity, built-in memory card and SD slots and an LCD display for enhanced usage.

The Cyber-shot™W210, W220 and S950 are available from February 2009.

Sony Cybershot H10 Review at Steve’s Digicams

Steve’s Digicams has posted a review of the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H10.

Quote from the review: "What the it lacks in size, it makes up for in performance. On start up it is able to capture its first image in less than 2 seconds, great for having the 10x zoom to contend with. There is virtually no shutter lag when the camera is pre-focused, and just 2/10 of a second when allowing the auto-focus to run."