Sony unveils NEX-7: 24.3 MP sensor, OLED viewfinder, $1199 price tag (video)

During our trip to Sony HQ earlier this summer to check out the NEX-C3, company reps hinted that the best was yet to come -- and held true to their word. Today's NEX-7 release breaks a handful of digicam records, becoming not only the first mirrorless camera to pack a 24.3 megapixel APS-C sensor, but the first APS-C cam of any shape and size to smash through this notable barrier -- potentially delivering unparalleled image quality for a camera of its size. Sony's new flagship mirrorless interchangeable lens camera (ILC) also features the same OLED viewfinder included with its brand-new Alpha A77, delivering XGA (1024 x 768-pixel) resolution directly to your eye. There's also 1080 / 60p AVCHD video capture, a full-size hot shoe, and a completely redesigned "Tri-Navi" interface. We spent a few minutes with a pre-production NEX-7 earlier this month -- jump past the break for our initial impressions.

Sony Alpha NEX-7 (hands-on)

Initially, we were taken aback by the NEX-7's size -- its magnesium alloy body is noticeably larger than the NEX-C3, for better or worse. Sony made the call to grow the cam in order to add those differentiating features. This top-of-the-line ILC is not for everyone -- its $1,199 (body only) price tag alone puts it out of reach for many -- but photographers looking for a true DSLR replacement will likely be willing to sacrifice a smaller footprint in order to add a full-size hot shoe, unique dual-wheel interface, and OLED viewfinder.

Speaking of that tiny eye-level display -- the NEX-7's finder is unlike any EVF counterpart. Sure, it can't offer the same image quality of the mirrored solutions found on pricey DSLRs, but it looks a heck of a lot better than any EVF we've seen before. And that XGA resolution let Sony frame the image with a variety of indicators, without allowing them to overpower your subject. The remaining image indicator is tiny, for example, but still very easy to read. There's also the same tiltable 3-inch LCD found on the NEX-C3, should you wish to use that display instead.

Another unique feature is the Tri-Navi interface, which lets you use a pair of top-mounted control wheels along with the rear wheel to adjust a variety of settings simultaneously, without jumping into the system menu. In manual mode, for example, one wheel controls aperture, one controls shutter speed, and the third lets you adjust the ISO. The pre-production sample we saw didn't include a complete interface, unfortunately, so we weren't really able to see this in action. We're certainly excited about the concept, however.

We were also unable to shoot images with the camera, though we did spend a few days shooting with a pre-production Alpha A77, which uses an identical 24.3 megapixel sensor. The images from that camera looked great, with accurate colors and great shadow detail. To be honest, 24.3 megapixels is probably overkill for most shooters -- if you're only sharing photos on the web, capturing at that high of a resolution will do more harm than good, filling your card quickly but providing far more detail than you need. Still, it's nice to have the option, and the sensor's other benefits -- excellent high ISO performance and 1080 / 60p AVCHD video, to name a few -- help to justify the expense even if you don't expect to shoot at full resolution.

We're very excited about Sony's latest addition to the NEX family, which helps to narrow the gap between DSLRs and ILCs. Since we have yet to actually shoot with the camera, you'll need to hang tight for a formal verdict, however. Scroll down below for an overview with Mike Kahn, Sony's new Alpha Camera Systems Director, and thumb through through the gallery up top for a sneak peek at the NEX-7's unique design.

Show full PR text

SONY UNVEILS UNIQUE "ALL-IN-ONE" COMPACT INTERCHANGEABLE LENS CAMERA WITH 24.3 MEGAPIXEL RESOLUTION

New NEX-7 Combines superb imaging, high performance and full palette of creative options

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 24, 2011 -- Sony is taking professional quality imaging and artistic shooting options to new levels with the introduction of the new α NEX-7 camera. Styled in magnesium alloy for strength and designed with a unique blend of classic and modern inspiration, the new compact interchangeable lens model weighs only 10.3 ounces (291g).

"For Sony, the new NEX-7 represents innovation in its purest form," said Kelly Davis, vice president of digital imaging at Sony Electronics. "Speed and style meet performance and control, creating a shooting experience unlike anything in market today."

The NEX-7 camera features a new Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor with 24.3 effective megapixel resolution – highest in its class -- that complements the latest generation of Sony's BIONZ® image processing engine.
This unique combination of sensor and processor technology delivers flawless image and HD video quality with very low noise and exceptionally fast shooting responses. An ultra-high sensitivity range extends from ISO 100-16000, making it easy to capture clean, low-noise images in dimly lit interiors or exteriors.

Response is accelerated even further by a shutter release lag of approximately 20 milliseconds– the fastest of any interchangeable lens digital camera (as of Aug 2011). In speed priority continuous mode, the NEX-7 camera captures fast-moving action at up to 10fps (AF/AE is fixed) – the world's fastest burst shooting speed of any mirrorless interchangeable lens camera (as of Aug 2011).

The NEX-7 model offers extensive, direct control over creative settings via an intuitive new TRINAVI control interface, important for enthusiast and professional photographers. Two control dials on the top of the camera are complemented by a control wheel, giving users three customizable, manual controls and the ability to create images with the flexibility and precision of an advanced DSLR camera.

The NEX-7 model is also the world's first interchangeable lens camera (along with new α77, α65) that features an integrated XGA OLED TruFinder™ viewfinder for precision framing and focusing. The viewfinder provides a bright, detail-packed, high contrast view of still images and video, with approximately 100 percent frame coverage and a wide field of view that rivals pro-grade optical viewfinders. On-screen grid lines, various shooting parameters and a level gauge can be displayed to assist with accurate framing. With the XGA OLED TruFinder™, the NEX-7 model realizes the ideal of a compact, rangefinder style camera with an eye-level, through the lens viewfinder.

The XGA OLED Tru-Finder™ viewfinder is complemented by a three-inch Xtra Fine LCD™ display that can be angled up to 90-degrees up or 45-degrees down for easy viewing in any shooting position. TruBlack™ technology assures superb detail and contrast, while dramatically reducing on-screen reflections.

At the touch of a button, the NEX-7 camera shoots smooth AVCHD Full HD movies with high-quality stereo sound. Support for the new AVCHD Progressive (Ver. 2.0) format allows users to capture Full HD video at 60p (progressive) frame rates. for beautifully smooth, detailed video footage. 24p video shooting is also available. The Tracking Focus feature lets users select a target object on screen and focus on it accurately, even if it is moving.

Additionally, manual focus is now possible during video shooting. Enthusiasts can also enjoy full control over creating the perfect video image with Program, Aperture/Shutter Priority and all-Manual modes (P/A/S/M) – just like the most advanced DSLR cameras. Stereo audio quality is improved, with revised circuitry that lowers noise levels, especially when shooting quiet scenes.

First introduced on the NEX-C3, Picture Effects enables easy "in camera" production of sophisticated artistic effects without the need for a PC or post-processing. The camera features 11 modes and 15 effects, including new HDR Painting, Soft Focus, Miniature and Rich-Tone Mono. A generous palette of other artistic imaging functions includes 3D Sweep Panorama™ mode, Soft Skin, Auto HDR, Handheld Twilight and Anti Motion Blur Modes.

The NEX-7 camera includes an integrated flash system and also features an Auto-lock Accessory Shoe for advanced shooting applications, both of which are firsts for Sony's E-mount line of cameras. The shoe supports the full range of Alpha flashes and monitors, as well as adaptors to accommodate studio lighting.

The LCS-ELC7 soft carrying case combines a snug-fitting body case and leather lens jacket to help protect the body and lens from scratches and dust. It's complemented by the STP-XH70 shoulder strap, made of the same material.

Pricing and Availability

The α NEX-7 ultra-compact interchangeable lens digital camera will be available this November in a kit with an exclusive black 18-55mm zoom lens for about $1350, or as a body-only for about $1200.

The new camera and all compatible lenses and accessories will be sold at Sony retail stores (www.store.sony.com) as well as other authorized retailers throughout the Sony dealer network.

For "sneak peak" videos of the new products, please visit www.sony.com/cameravideos.

Sony reveals three new NEX E-mount lenses, LA-EA2 A-mount adaptor with translucent mirror

Sony's NEX line of mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras (ILC) deliver quite a lot of bang for your buck, but a diminutive lens selection reduced appeal for advanced shooters. Today, the company is growing its E-mount family of lenses by three, now offering a total of seven compatible lenses. Shipping in October, the Carl Zeiss SonnarT E will take the helm as Sony's flagship optic, delivering a 24mm fixed focal length and f/1.8 aperture, with a minimum focus distance of 16 cm and a sky-high $999 price tag. Also packing a speedy f/1.8 aperture, the $300 E 50mm OSS doesn't sport Carl Zeiss branding, but it does include built-in image stabilization and a circular aperture, promising smooth defocus. Both lenses will ship in December. Hitting stores in October, a new telephoto lens, the $350 E 55-210mm compensates for its sluggish f/4.5-6.3 maximum aperture with optical image stabilization while offering 3.8x magnification. And finally, Sony's LA-EA2 A-mount adapter lets you use your full-size Alpha lenses with the NEX cameras without losing functionality, thanks to built-in Translucent Mirror Technology and a dedicated AF motor. NEX-3, NEX-5, and NEX-C3 owners will need a firmware update to take advantage of the adaptor, but if you already have a collection of A-mount lenses, $400 may be a reasonable price to pay for full compatibility when it ships in November.

Sony NEX E-mount lenses

Apple to release cheaper, 8GB iPhone 4 within weeks?

As the world waits for Apple to release the iPhone 5, Reuters is reporting that Cupertino may be refreshing the iPhone 4, as well. According to two anonymous sources "with knowledge of the matter," an unnamed Korean manufacturer has already begun producing parts for a cheaper, 8GB version of the smartphone, slated to launch within the next few weeks. As for that next-gen handset, the insiders went on to say that the iPhone 4S / iPhone 5 will feature a more spacious touchscreen, better antenna and eight megapixel shooter, and that Apple is indeed aiming for a late September launch, after having already asked manufacturers Hon Hai and Pegatron to prep their facilities for the production of 45 million units, altogether. Details, as usual, are still scarce at this point, but we'll let you know as soon as we get more information.

Verzo teases its first Android smartphone, aims for a late-September launch

Ready to check out a phone brand you've never seen or heard of before? Of course you are. We just got our hands on exclusive photos and details of a mysterious Android handset from Verzo, a newcomer to the market. The phone's called the Kinzo and is slated for a launch in late September. Verzo's keeping a tight lid on the specifics for right now, but we know the phone was designed by Novague and it'll feature its own UI -- not in an attempt to be different, it says, but "to get the most from the Android system."

The brand is playing the humility card in its release, claiming that it's not trying to change everything or be the next Samsung or Apple, nor is it going to be "the slimmest, fastest, or the best... for now." However, Verzo plans to be open to suggestions and actively involved in what its customers love and hate about its products. The company aims to first sell the Kinzo on its website, with shipments to the US and Europe shortly after; the rollout will continue in Russia, China, South America and the Middle East in late 2011 / early 2012. Verzo's definitely worked up a nifty teaser here, so how intrigued are you? Check out a few more images of the Kinzo below, and follow past the break for the company's press release.

Verzo Kinzo

Show full PR text

VERZO Kinzo: new smartphone with new approach
It seems to be a general rule these days that anytime there is a new mobile device introduced to the market (it does not matter whether it is introduced by a new or well established com- pany), their press releases are presenting it as if the device would bring some great change to the field and forever change the current state of affairs. This is not the case of VERZO.
We are new, we are here, we want to be heard and seen, but we are not going to claim that we are going to change everything what are the owners of smartphones used to. We are definitely not going to scare off Apple and Samsung by our entry to the market, so they would have to call board meetings and hold press conferences. On the contrary – the VERZO brand is letting you know right from the start that we are not the slimmest, fastest or the best. For now.

VERZO and Community

At the same time we want to let you know that we are going to be different and that we have a clear vision and we know exactly where we are going. The VERZO brand is officially letting you know that it exists and in the next 6 weeks we are going to offer all smartphone-lovers our first model named Kinzo. VERZO Kinzo combines our desire to produce original and novel products with functional design, plus we hope to make our products user-friendly, reliable and open to suggestions.

Saying that we are open to suggestions could mean anything. What we really mean is that the VERZO brand will actively listen to its customers. Here at VERZO we represent the generation used to online forums and social networks or communities, so we know what a strong and well organized community can achieve. For this reason, every product leaving VERZO factory will have a very close link between the brand and the user. Our products are designed to listen to their users.

If the users do not like something, we will know. If they demand something, we will know. If they have some dream or suggestion towards the VERZO brand or the model Kinzo, we will know. VERZO Kinzo is, however, not only counting on the original design from Novague studio and the community connection, but it is also bringing its own graphic solution for the popular Android OS.

VERZO GUI

Our personalized VERZO interface was not developed just to be different from the rest of the world, but mainly because we wanted to get the most from the Android system. We believe that we were successful now and we want to be even better in the future. Kinzo is therefore offering you Android with VERZO face.

How to buy Kinzo?

The sale of Kinzo will begin at the end of September. Complete information about our first smartphone with full technical specifications, photographs, 3D model, videos, all features and the price will be released during the second half of September 2011.

The sale itself will be launched online on our official VERZO e-shop which will be accessible at www.verzo.com. From there we will be shipping the Kinzo to all the countries of the European Union and also the USA. Other countries will be added later this year or in the beginning of the next year. For now we are planning to add China, Russian Federation, countries of South America and the Middle east. One of the advantages of getting a VERZO smartphone is our dedication to provide easy and responsive customer service.

Other details

Smartphone VERZO Kinzo was designed and developed in Europe, and the production takes place in designated factory in Taiwan. The official web is going to be launched in its first phase (containing basic information about the product and first pictures) during the night from 29th to 30th of August.

iPhone 5 coming to Sprint, other carriers in mid-October?

Watch out AT&T and Verizon, it looks like there's an iPhone 5 hat-trick coming this fall. WSJ is reporting that the Apple smartphone will hit Sprint at the same time as those other two networks, bringing a well-needed boost to the carrier's shares in afternoon trading. We've heard mixed reports about an expected release date, but Wall Street Journal sources "familiar with the matter" are claiming that the phone will ship in mid-October. One source also stated that Sprint will begin carrying the iPhone 4 at the same time -- presumably with a price drop in tow. Adding Sprint's 52 million subscribers to the mix could bring the iPhone within reach of customers currently locked into contracts, family plans or corporate agreements with Sprint, making the move a huge win for both companies.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Nokia Presents New Golden Phone

Nokia has just announced a new C3-01, plated in 18-carat gold and has a new and better 1GHz processor. Despite of the new addition, this phone is still labeled and recognized as a budget phone, which is great for phone calls and less conscious on modern cellphone technology. The overall theme of the device, including its UI is also in gold, which could remind people on how the Nokia 6300 Sirocco Gold had amazed customers back then, even without the matching theme.

The phone has a 2.4-inch QVGA touch screen, a ceramic-feel keypad, a 5-megapixel camera with LED flash, and an expandable memory of up to 23GB via a MicroSD slot. It also has connections via GSM, HSDPA, WiFi, and Bluetooth. It also has the Ovi Store for tools, applications, and games, plus the Nokia Communities for social networking on Facebook and Twitter. This golden phone is already available in some countries in Europe and the Middle East.

Source: Nokia Conversations

New iPhone 5 Rumors About Connectivity

As the date for the iPhone 5 release is getting closer, more and more news are coming out about its features and some software functionalities. Some people have seen through an app that there is a new device registering both CDMA and GSM networks for AT&T and Verizon, respectively. If this is the case, then the iPhone 5 may be claimed as a world phone, being able to cater to most networks in the world, including that of Japan, India, and Brazil to name a few.

If this rumor is said to be true, then it also destroys another rumor that the iPhone 5 will be running on LTE for networks, since there is no such thing as an LTE chip with compatibility for multiple network selections. Running on iOS5 and being connected with network codes MNC and MCC. After all, having a multi-band phone just works in the favor of so many customers across the globe.

Source: TechCrunch