Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Nokia 808 PureView impressions, camera showdown with the iPhone 4S and HTC One S]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/nokia-808-pureview-impressions-camera-showdown/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/nokia-808-pureview-impressions-camera-showdown/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/24/nokia-808-pureview-impressions-camera-showdown/#comments Nokia 808 PureView impressions, camera showdown with the iPhone 4S and HTC One S

Nokia invited us to take a tour of the Carl Zeiss HQ in Germany, all in the name of getting some time to shoot with the pair's latest project, the 808 PureView. Sure, you've heard the specs: a 41-megapixel sensor, f/2.4 Carl Zeiss lens and a focal length of 8.02mm. That hulking sensor dominates the body, but how do those photographic results turn out? We spent a few hours shooting with Symbian's (possibly) last hurrah and found that -- unsurprisingly -- this looks to be the new benchmark for mobile imaging. The top-heavy body fits in with the focus on mobile photography epitomized in this phone and there's a tangible quality to the photos even on the 808 PureView's 640 x 360 display, alongside a noticeable decrease in noise. Check out our gallery and grab more impressions and comparison images with the iPhone 4S and One S after the break.

Gallery: Nokia 808 PureView sample images

Continue reading Nokia 808 PureView impressions, camera showdown with the iPhone 4S and HTC One S

Nokia 808 PureView impressions, camera showdown with the iPhone 4S and HTC One S originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 May 2012 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>4-inch40-megapixel40mp808808 PureView808PureviewApplebellecameracameraphonehands-onHTCHTC One SHtcOneSiPhone 4sIphone4smobilepostcrossnhdnokianokia 808nokia 808 PureViewnokia pureviewNokia808Nokia808PureviewNokiaPureviewOne SOneSphotospureviewpureview 808Pureview808samplesymbianversusThu, 24 May 2012 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung Galaxy S III focuses on photography sharing features, not cutting-edge optics]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/samsung-galaxy-s-iii-camera-features/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/samsung-galaxy-s-iii-camera-features/http://www.engadget.com/2012/05/03/samsung-galaxy-s-iii-camera-features/#comments Image

Samsung's Galaxy S III doesn't boast 41-megapixel captures or top-of-the-line optics. Instead, its camera's strengths are in its intelligent organization and social features, increasing the handset's appeal as a point-and-shoot alternative for casual photographers. Samsung's latest round of compacts and mirrorless dedicated snappers reaffirm suspicions that the company is taking a different approach to photography, focusing on connectivity and social enhancements, rather than updated sensor and low-light shooting technologies. While such decisions may prompt advanced shooters to bring their business to competitors, it highlights Samsung's strengths on a broader level, as a connectivity enabler, rather than a camera maker.

The company is clearly committed to growing its ecosystem and uniting product divisions in an effort to increase penetration throughout different categories, developing sharing tools that simplify workflows and increase appeal. Samsung's latest flagship smartphone packs standard specs, like 8-megapixel stills and 1080p video, but it offers a handful of software features that combine to make the device a compelling upgrade, especially from an imaging perspective. Join us past the break as we detail the Galaxy S III's photography enhancements, from Best Photo to Face Zoom.

Continue reading Samsung Galaxy S III focuses on photography sharing features, not cutting-edge optics

Samsung Galaxy S III focuses on photography sharing features, not cutting-edge optics originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 03 May 2012 14:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appappscameracamera phonecamera phonesCameraPhoneCameraPhonescamerasfacial recognitionFacialRecognitionfile sharingFileSharinggalaxygalaxy s iiiGalaxySIiimobilenfcphotographysamsungsamsung galaxysamsung galaxy s iiisamsung mobile unboxedsamsung mobile unpacked 2012samsung unboxedSamsungGalaxySamsungGalaxySIiiSamsungMobileUnboxedSamsungMobileUnpacked2012SamsungUnboxedsharingsocial mediasocial networkingSocialMediaSocialNetworkingsoftwareunboxedWiFi DirectWifiDirectwirelessThu, 03 May 2012 14:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung patents using a phone as a pointer while wearing a head-mounted display]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/samsung-patents-using-a-phone-as-a-pointer-while-wearing-an-HMD/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/samsung-patents-using-a-phone-as-a-pointer-while-wearing-an-HMD/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/14/samsung-patents-using-a-phone-as-a-pointer-while-wearing-an-HMD/#comments Samsung patentWe're not sure how many head-mounted displays you've had your follicles on, but generally the answer around the Engadget compound is, "quite a few." If you've ever played with such a wearable gadget though, you'd know that head-tracking, while intuitive, isn't always the most accurate way to control a device. Samsung has patented an alternative method that lets you keep wearing those silly goggles, but uses your cellphone almost like a gyroscopic mouse to pilot a pointer. Rather than use a gyroscope or accelerometer (both of which are present in many modern smartphones), Samsung's patent turns to the camera -- a feature found in even the lowliest dumbphone. The primarily software-based solution would require that both the phone's sensor and the display have an agreed upon background marker to help line up the motions. If you're the type that loves to dig through the minutiae of patents there's something seriously wrong with you, but you'll find what you're looking for at the source.

Samsung patents using a phone as a pointer while wearing a head-mounted display originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 14 Mar 2012 10:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamera phoneCameraPhonecellphonehead mounted displayhead-mounted displayHead-mountedDisplayHeadMountedDisplayhmdmobile phoneMobilePhonepatentpointersamsungWed, 14 Mar 2012 10:54:00 EST<![CDATA[More Nokia 808 PureView sample shots spotted: 41MP sensor laughs at the notion of motion blur]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/06/nokia-808-pureview-41MP-sensor-sample-shots/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/06/nokia-808-pureview-41MP-sensor-sample-shots/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/06/nokia-808-pureview-41MP-sensor-sample-shots/#comments More Nokia 808 PureView sample shots spotted: 41MP sensor laughs at the notion of motion blurNokia's 808 Pureview was one of the major stories of last week's MWC. We're desperate to get to grips with a final retail model and push that 41-megapixel sensor to its limits -- but until then, a handful of extra sample shots will have to suffice. This sharp, detailed mid-air shot bodes well for some high-speed image capture on Nokia's new cameraphone chimera. (However, at the peak of a board trick, you're largely static.) While several more of these unearthed photos are already embedded into Nokia's own 808 landing page, the unobscured image files appear to be a treasure trove for phone tinkerers, with one Pentax Forums member able to eke out plenty of detail from a previously silhouetted sample shot. We've chopped together a before-and-after to accentuate those differences right after the break. Otherwise, you can take a look at the source for a full-size rundown of those hidden images.

Continue reading More Nokia 808 PureView sample shots spotted: 41MP sensor laughs at the notion of motion blur

More Nokia 808 PureView sample shots spotted: 41MP sensor laughs at the notion of motion blur originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 06 Mar 2012 18:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>808808 PureView808Pureviewcameraphoneexclusivemobilepostcrossmobilepostminimwcmwc 2012Mwc2012nokiaNokia 808Nokia 808 pureviewNokia808Nokia808Pureviewpureviewsample imagessample photossample picturessample shotsSampleImagesSamplePhotosSamplePicturesSampleShotssmaple shotsSmapleShotsTue, 06 Mar 2012 18:47:00 EST<![CDATA[HTC may not have PureView, but it does have ImageSense]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/htc-releases-imagesense-samples/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/htc-releases-imagesense-samples/http://www.engadget.com/2012/03/04/htc-releases-imagesense-samples/#comments HTC ImageSense sample imagesNot to be outdone by the Nokia 808's appearance at MWC, HTC has released sample shots taken using the ImageSense camera module that comes in its One X and One S phones. In many ways they're normal-looking stills, with nothing like PureView's 41-megapixel oversampling (which is claimed to result in a superior still), and certainly no massive 1/1.2-inch sensor. However, if you look closely, you can see the benefits of some of HTC's improvements. Top among those is the faster f/2.0 lens, which will allow for shorter exposures and clearer moving subjects -- like the skateboarders above. Such images will also likely benefit from the 0.7-second time window for capturing an image and the 0.2-second auto-focus when shooting continuously. Whatever you make of the sample shots in the gallery below, HTC can also claim one key advantage over PureView -- at least for the time being: camera technology that still fits into a regular-sized smartphone.

Gallery: HTC ImageSense sample photos

HTC may not have PureView, but it does have ImageSense originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 04 Mar 2012 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8-megapixel8mpcameracamera modulecamera phoneCameraModuleCameraPhonehtchtc imagesensehtc onehtc one shtc one xHtcImagesenseHtcOneHtcOneSHtcOneXimagesensemobilepostcrossnokia 808nokia pureviewnokia pureview 808Nokia808NokiaPureviewNokiaPureview808phone cameraPhoneCamerapureviewstillsSun, 04 Mar 2012 10:58:00 EST<![CDATA[Visualized: Nokia's 41-megapixel PureView sensor (updated with video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/visualized-nokias-41-megapixel-pureview-sensor/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/visualized-nokias-41-megapixel-pureview-sensor/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/29/visualized-nokias-41-megapixel-pureview-sensor/#comments If you thought a bigger pixel count just meant bigger file sizes, then take a look above. That big guy at the bottom is the 41-megapixel sensor we saw unsheathed in our hands on, and responsible for those awesome Nokia 808 PureView shots we saw at MWC on Monday. The two above it are 8- and 5-megapixel sensors respectively, and give you an idea of the real-estate cost of packing a superior snapper. At two and a half times the physical size of the N8's prized optics, we think the PureView system earns its title as the biggest thing in mobile imaging somewhat convincingly.

Update: In case you're still confused, one of Nokia's chief camera experts Damian Dinning gives a thorough walkthrough of the technology in our Engadget interview. There's also a Nokia video after the break.

Continue reading Visualized: Nokia's 41-megapixel PureView sensor (updated with video)

Visualized: Nokia's 41-megapixel PureView sensor (updated with video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 29 Feb 2012 08:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>41 megapixel41Megapixel808808 PureView808Pureviewcamera sensorcameraphoneCameraSensorDamian DinningDamianDinningimageimage sensorImageSensorimagingmobile imagingMobileImagingnokianokia pureviewNokiaPureviewPureViewvideovisualizedWed, 29 Feb 2012 08:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia 808 PureView first sample shots -- feast your eyes (update: GigaPan them!)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/nokia-808-pureview-first-sample-shots-feast-your-eyes/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/nokia-808-pureview-first-sample-shots-feast-your-eyes/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/27/nokia-808-pureview-first-sample-shots-feast-your-eyes/#comments Nokia 808 PureView first sample shots -- feast your eyes

This is it. Here's an exclusive first look at some sample shots taken with Nokia's freshly minted 808 PureView imaging powerhouse -- and wow, just wow! The collection contains photos taken at different resolutions in various conditions that show exactly what the 41-megapixel camera is capable of. Feast your eyes in our gallery below -- we'll have a ZIP file with the original pictures for you to download shortly. Also, stay tuned for our upcoming interview with Damian Dinning, program manager for imaging at Nokia.

Update: Our very own Andy Yang of Engadget Chinese slapped a few of these shots on GigaPan for your zooming pleasure -- check it out after the break. You can also grab the originals (a 31.8MB download) from Nokia Conversations.

Gallery: Nokia 808 PureView first sample shots

Continue reading Nokia 808 PureView first sample shots -- feast your eyes (update: GigaPan them!)

Nokia 808 PureView first sample shots -- feast your eyes (update: GigaPan them!) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 27 Feb 2012 09:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>808808 PureView808Pureviewcameraphoneexclusivemobilepostcrossmwcmwc 2012Mwc2012NokiaNokia 808Nokia 808 PureViewNokia808Nokia808PureviewPureViewsample imagessample photossample picturessample shotsSampleImagesSamplePhotosSamplePicturessamplesSampleShotsMon, 27 Feb 2012 09:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia teases with imaging-themed video ahead of MWC]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/nokia-teases-with-imaging-themed-video-ahead-of-mwc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/nokia-teases-with-imaging-themed-video-ahead-of-mwc/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/22/nokia-teases-with-imaging-themed-video-ahead-of-mwc/#comments Well what do we have here? Nokia just posted a delightful little video on its YouTube channel hinting at some kind of announcement during Mobile World Congress next week. The imaging-themed video entitled "Get ready to capture a pure view" shows beautiful snowy landscapes and uses words like detail, depth and definition. While we've enjoyed Nokia's recent foray into all things white, the company's current imaging flagship is getting a bit long in the tooth. Could this be about an N8 successor running Symbian Belle? Guess we'll have to wait until Monday to find out.

Nokia teases with imaging-themed video ahead of MWC originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Feb 2012 05:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BellecameraphoneimagingMobile World Congressmobile world congress 2012mobilepostcrossMobileWorldCongressMobileWorldCongress2012N8NokiaNokia N8NokiaN8SymbianSymbian BelleSymbianBelleteaservideoWindow PhoneWed, 22 Feb 2012 05:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Qualcomm's Snapdragon S4 flexes its imaging muscle (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/18/qualcomms-snapdragon-s4-flexes-its-imaging-muscle-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/18/qualcomms-snapdragon-s4-flexes-its-imaging-muscle-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/18/qualcomms-snapdragon-s4-flexes-its-imaging-muscle-video/#comments Qualcomm's Snapdragon S4 flexes its imaging muscle (video)While we already know that Qualcomm's Snapdragon S4 will offer a quad-core variant, incorporate LTE and use a 28nm manufacturing process, the company posted an article to its media blog ahead of Mobile World Congress showcasing the new features provided by the chipset's Image Signal Processor. You're likely familiar with some of the imaging functionality available in Qualcomm's existing Snapdragon processors -- technology like Scalado's Rewind (pictured above) which we've covered before. The new SoC cranks things up a notch with support for up to three cameras (two in the back for 3D plus one front-facing), 20-megapixel sensors and 1080p HD video recording at 30fps. In addition to zero shutter lag, the Snapdragon S4 includes proprietary 3A processing (autofocus, auto exposure and auto white balance) along with improved blink / smile detection, gaze estimation, range finding and image stabilization. Rounding things off are gesture detection / control, augmented reality and computer vision (via Quacomm's FastCV). Want to know more? Check out the source link below, then hit the break for video demos of the S4's image stabilization and gesture-based imaging chops.

Continue reading Qualcomm's Snapdragon S4 flexes its imaging muscle (video)

Qualcomm's Snapdragon S4 flexes its imaging muscle (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 18 Feb 2012 23:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracameraphonecomputer visionComputerVisionFastCVGesture ControlGesture recognitionGestureControlGestureRecognitionimage processingImage SIgnal Processorimage stabilizationImageProcessingImageSignalProcessorImageStabilizationimagingMobile World Congressmobile world congress 2012mobilepostcrossMobileWorldCongressMobileWorldCongress2012QualcommQualcomm FastCVQualcomm SnapdragonQualcomm Snapdragon S4QualcommFastcvQualcommSnapdragonQualcommSnapdragonS4RewindS4ScaladoScalado RewindScaladoRewindSnapdragonSnapdragon S4SnapdragonS4tabletvideozero shutter lagZeroShutterLagSat, 18 Feb 2012 23:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Scalado Remove clears up your photos, we go hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/14/scalado-remove-clears-up-your-photos-we-go-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/14/scalado-remove-clears-up-your-photos-we-go-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/14/scalado-remove-clears-up-your-photos-we-go-hands-on-video/#comments Scalado Remove clears up your photos, we go hands-on (video)
It's a familiar scenario. You're traveling with a friend and she poses in front of a famous monument. You're ready to take her picture with your phone but there's a constant stream of people and vehicles getting in and out of your shot. What are your options? You could wait for the right lull in traffic to press the shutter key or you could use Remove -- Scalado's patented new object removal technology. Remove captures several images in a row, analyses them and automatically creates a composite photo devoid of unwanted details. Better yet, it highlights potential objects and lets you eliminate them manually. The folks at Scalado -- best known for such camera innovations as zero shutter lag and Rewind -- are planning to showcase Remove at Mobile World Congress later this month but luckily for you, we got an exclusive first look at an early build of the Remove app for Android.

We installed the app (designed for Gingerbread) on two of Samsung's flagship devices -- our Galaxy Nexus HSPA+ and our global Galaxy S II. The primary UI is simple and looks pretty much like any other basic camera app. Just tap the on-screen shutter key and Remove quickly takes several pictures in a row (the Nexus is about twice as fast as the GS2 here, interestingly). You can touch a second time to stop capture or let the app finish on its own. Remove then magically displays the resulting composite shot which you can save to the gallery by tapping the checkbox at the top right corner of the screen. There's also a toggle in the same location which lets you switch to a secondary UI that allows you to pick which unwanted details to remove (or keep) from each frame. Of course you can load and re-tweak previous captures at any time to restore (or eliminate) objects after the fact.

Remove introduces a completely new way to capture that special moment, and while we experienced occasional issues with the responsiveness of the UI and noticed a couple minor bugs, the app is relatively intuitive and works rather well for a prototype. Take a look at our gallery of sample images and screenshots below and hit the break for the full PR treatment, including Scalado's concept video.

Gallery: Scalado Remove hands-on

Continue reading Scalado Remove clears up your photos, we go hands-on (video)

Scalado Remove clears up your photos, we go hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 14 Feb 2012 04:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AndroidAndroid 2.3Android2.3camera phoneCameraPhonedigital cameraDigitalCameraexclusiveGingerbreadGooglehands-onMobile World Congressmobile world congress 2012mobilepostcrossMobileWorldCongressMobileWorldCongress2012RemoveScaladoScalado Camera SolutionScalado RemoveScaladoCameraSolutionScaladoRemovevideoTue, 14 Feb 2012 04:00:00 EST<![CDATA[New LED flash controller promises to give floodlight brightness at cell phone size]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/02/new-led-flash-controller-promises-to-give-floodlight-brightness/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/02/new-led-flash-controller-promises-to-give-floodlight-brightness/http://www.engadget.com/2012/02/02/new-led-flash-controller-promises-to-give-floodlight-brightness/#comments Still looking forward to a world where cell phone cameras don't suck? So is STMicroelectronics, and it hopes to hurry along a photogenic future with the help of a new supercapacitor-powered integrated camera flash. STCF04, the outfit's new integrated camera flash and torch controller, gives its LED flash module over 40 Watts of power, reportedly allowing it to give off the same level of brightness as an outdoor security floodlight -- handily blinding your friends and family with each merry burst of the bulb. STMicroelectronics says this luminescent overkill helps high-megapixel camera sensors absorb more light, cutting down on the need for longer exposure time and hopefully resulting in less image blur when shooting indoors. The sensor packs in eight user-selectable flash levels, and features up to 12 levels of brightness for torch (you know, flashlight) use. Phone or camera manufactures who want in on the action will be able to order the chip for $2 a pop later this year -- if they're willing to risk giving Mr. Blurrycam a break, that is. Hit the break for a flash of the chip's official press release.

Continue reading New LED flash controller promises to give floodlight brightness at cell phone size

New LED flash controller promises to give floodlight brightness at cell phone size originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 02 Feb 2012 23:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamera phone flashcameraphoneCameraPhoneFlashcell phone cameraCellPhoneCameraflashflash and torch sensorflash sensorFlashAndTorchSensorFlashSensorLEDLED flashLedFlashphone flashPhoneFlashSTCF04STMicroelectronicssupercapacitorThu, 02 Feb 2012 23:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony's new cameraphone CMOS jams bigger gear into the same space (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/sony-layered-cmos/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/sony-layered-cmos/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/23/sony-layered-cmos/#comments
Sony's done gone and developed a new back-illuminated CMOS designed to improve the state of your casual camerawork. Traditional units mount a merged pixel-sensor and circuit on a supporting substrate -- the innovation here is to produce the two separately and layer them without any additional material. This makes manufacturing easier and without a mount, you're able to lever-in bigger kit into the same space. It's also packing HDR Movie, which like the still-image version, will produce better moving pictures in tricky light. An eight-megapixel version will ship to cellphone producers in March, with a 13-megapixel edition following in June and if Sony's really successful, it might earn enough to buy a copy of Photoshop rather than producing release images in MS Paint.

Continue reading Sony's new cameraphone CMOS jams bigger gear into the same space (video)

Sony's new cameraphone CMOS jams bigger gear into the same space (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 23 Jan 2012 11:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Back-IlluminatedBack-Illuminated CMOSBack-illuminatedCmosCameraphoneCMOSImage SensorImageSensorLayerLayered CMOSLayeredCmosLayersmobilepostcrossMS PaintMsPaintPhotographyPhotoshopSmartphoneSonySubstratevideoMon, 23 Jan 2012 11:56:00 EST<![CDATA[Camera-less iPhone 4S now available in Singapore, military approves]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/camera-less-iphone-4s-now-available-in-singapore-military-appro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/camera-less-iphone-4s-now-available-in-singapore-military-appro/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/20/camera-less-iphone-4s-now-available-in-singapore-military-appro/#comments
Rhyming schemes aside, it's hard to imagine why anyone would want a camera-less iPhone 4S. But that's exactly what Singaporean operator M1 is offering today, with the launch of a new line of "non-camera" iPhones. As it turns out, Singapore's military prohibits its soldiers from owning camera-equipped cellphones, which presents problems for the many men who have to serve a mandatory two-year term. With M1's new modified iPhone 4 and 4S, though, they'll be in the clear, since both devices have been approved by no less an authority than Singapore's Ministry of Defense, or MINDEF. According to the provider, both front- and rear-facing cameras have been completely removed from the devices, and "may not be reinstalled." They're all available now on a two-year plan, for about $38 more than their fully-outfitted counterparts. Singapore's two other operators, SingTel and StarHub, tell CNET that they're also looking to roll out a line of MINDEF-approved iPhones, though neither could offer a timeline for their release.

Camera-less iPhone 4S now available in Singapore, military approves originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 20 Jan 2012 10:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleasiacameracamera phoneCameraPhonecarriercellphonehandsetiosiphoneiphone 4iphone 4sIphone4Iphone4sM1militarymobilepostcrossoperatorsingaporesmartphoneFri, 20 Jan 2012 10:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Polaroid SC1630 Android HD smart camera hands-on, is it a cameraphone or a phonecamera?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/polaroid-sc1630-android-hd-hands-on-is-it-a-cameraphone-or-a-ph/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/polaroid-sc1630-android-hd-hands-on-is-it-a-cameraphone-or-a-ph/http://www.engadget.com/2012/01/10/polaroid-sc1630-android-hd-hands-on-is-it-a-cameraphone-or-a-ph/#comments The camera modules in smartphones continually improve, and these days there are phones like the iPhone 4S and the Nokia N9 who can take snapshots as good -- and sometimes better -- than point-and-shoots. Polaroid's known for making cameras, but its newest device, a rebrand of the Aigo A8 we saw at CES last year, flips the script by taking a 16 megapixel point-and-shoot and shoving an Android phone inside.

The Polaroid version's called the SC1630 Android HD Smart Camera, and it's packed with 850/1900/2100MHz WCDMA and 850/900/1800/1900 GSM radios, along with WiFi, Bluetooth, GPS and an FM antenna thrown in for good measure. The SC1630 sports an 800 x 400 3.2-inch capacitive touchscreen, while underneath there's 512MB of built-in storage and 512MB of RAM, along with proximity and G-sensors, micro SIM slot, Micro USB and a 2.5mm headphone jack. As we said above, the camera is a 16 megapixel unit, with aperture of F3.1 - F5.6, 3X optical zoom and 5X digital zoom, a max shutter speed of 1/1400 and ISO tops out at 3200. It's got geotagging and anti-shake support as well, and can shoot videos in 720p. Scheduled to arrive in April for $299, the device still has a few kinks to be worked out and there may be some changes to that hardware before it makes it to market. Here at CES 2012, we got a chance to lay hands on the phone and speak with Emanuel Verona, Polaroid's Executive VP and COO about the company's first Android offering, so read on past the break for our impressions and his thoughts.

Gallery: Polaroid SC1630 Android HD Smart Camera hands-on

Continue reading Polaroid SC1630 Android HD smart camera hands-on, is it a cameraphone or a phonecamera?

Polaroid SC1630 Android HD smart camera hands-on, is it a cameraphone or a phonecamera? originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 10 Jan 2012 23:06:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>16 megapixel16Megapixela8aigoaigo a8AigoA8androidandroid hd smart cameraAndroidHdSmartCameracameracameraphoneCESCES 2012Ces2012emanuel veronaEmanuelVeronahands-onmobilepostcrosspoint and shootPointAndShootpolaroidsc1630Tue, 10 Jan 2012 23:06:00 EST<![CDATA[Engadget Primed: Why your camera's sensor size matters]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/engadget-primed-why-your-cameras-sensor-size-matters/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/engadget-primed-why-your-cameras-sensor-size-matters/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/16/engadget-primed-why-your-cameras-sensor-size-matters/#commentsPrimed goes in-depth on the technobabble you hear on Engadget every day -- we dig deep into each topic's history and how it benefits our lives. You can follow the series here. Looking to suggest a piece of technology for us to break down? Drop us a line at primed *at* engadget *dawt* com.

The first thing I look for when purchasing a camera is something most aren't even aware of. It's not the brand name or the quality of the lens, the touch screen technology or the LCD screen size, and not the array of functions it offers or shooting presets available - it's the size of the image sensor. As a 20-year pro photographer who's captured over a million images during my career, I'm the guy who admires the parts of the engine instead of falling in love with the flashy exterior or high-end sound system. The image sensor is where the rubber meets the photosensitive diodes.

In writing my first installment for Primed, I'll give a few definitions to clear things up a bit when it comes to a camera's image sensors and size, explain in detail the parts of a sensor, how it alters the photos (or video) you capture, where it came from, and why it's important to consider its size - I'll cover the meat and bones, get to the heart of the matter, the nub, the crux, the nuts and bolts, get down to the brass tacks, all while exhausting our thesaurus. Let's dive in, shall we?

Continue reading Engadget Primed: Why your camera's sensor size matters

Engadget Primed: Why your camera's sensor size matters originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracameraphoneCCDCMOSDSLRengadget primedEngadgetPrimedimage sensorImageSensorISOmedium formatMediumFormatMFTmicro four thirdsMicroFourThirdsNikonphotophotographyphotosPhotoshoppoint and shootPointAndShootprimedsensorsensor sizeSensorSizeSLR cameraSlrCameraTexas InstrumentsTexasInstrumentstutorialFri, 16 Dec 2011 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia N9 review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/nokia-n9-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/nokia-n9-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/22/nokia-n9-review/#comments
It's taken a long time for Nokia's MeeGo-packing N9 to make its way into our top secret labs (the N9 moniker was first applied to early E7 prototypes), but it's here in our dirty little hands, at last, and it's glorious -- well, as glorious as a stillborn product can be, anyway. The N9 is the latest and greatest in a long line of quirky, interesting, yet ultimately flawed touchscreen experiments from Nokia that includes the Hildon-sporting 7710, a series of Maemo-based "internet tablets" (770, N800, N810, N900) and most recently, the N950 MeeGo handset for developers. What makes the N9 special is that it represents Nokia's last flagship phone as an independent player. MeeGo is already dead, and future high-end devices from the manufacturer will run Windows Phone and use Microsoft's services. So, is this the company's final bittersweet hurrah? Did MeeGo ever stand a chance against Android, iOS and Mango? In its attempt to stay relevant, is Nokia throwing out the baby with the bathwater? Most importantly, how does the N9 fare in today's merciless dual-core world? Find out after the break.

Gallery: Nokia N9 review

Continue reading Nokia N9 review

Nokia N9 review originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 22 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 GHz1Ghz3.9-inch720p8 megapixel854 x 480854X4808MegapixelAngry BirdsAngryBirdscameraphoneCortex A8CortexA8front facing cameraFrontFacingCameraFWVGAGorilla GlassGorillaGlassHarmattanHSPAMeeGoMeeGo 1.2MeeGo 1.2 HarmattanMeego1.2Meego1.2HarmattanmicroSIMmobilepostcrossN9NFCNokiaNokia N9NokiaN9OMAPOMAP 3630Omap3630OVIOVI MusicOviMusicPowerVRPowerVR SGX530PowervrSgx530reviewSGX530single coreSingleCoreSIPsmartphoneTITI OMAPTI OMAP 3630TiOmapTiOmap3630unlockedvideoWebKitWVGASat, 22 Oct 2011 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Samsung Galaxy Nexus camera and 1080p video samples]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/19/samsung-galaxy-nexus-camera-and-1080p-video-samples/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/19/samsung-galaxy-nexus-camera-and-1080p-video-samples/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/19/samsung-galaxy-nexus-camera-and-1080p-video-samples/#comments Wondering what the 5 megapixel sensor within the Galaxy Nexus is capable of? So were we. We didn't have a huge variety of subjects to photograph here in our meeting room, but we ran about and captured as many as we could just for a quick comparison. As promised, snapping multiple pictures in a row was a cinch, with the camera taking just a fraction of a second before being ready to shoot again. In fact, we couldn't even tap the screen fast enough to find its limit. We have to say, though -- the built-in "Edit" menu could stand to be stronger. The "effects" were thoroughly underwhelming, and Instagram addicts will find plenty to laugh about. The cropping and twisting, however, is appreciated. Have a look at a rough-and-dirty comparison between the Galaxy Nexus and the Nexus S in the galleries below (as well as a few panorama samples), and find a one minute 1080p sample video from the former just after the break.

Gallery: Samsung Galaxy Nexus sample camera shots

Gallery: Samsung Nexus S sample gallery

Continue reading Samsung Galaxy Nexus camera and 1080p video samples

Samsung Galaxy Nexus camera and 1080p video samples originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Oct 2011 02:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracamera phoneCameraPhonegalaxygalaxy nexusGalaxyNexushands-onmobilepostcrossnexussamsungsamsung galaxy nexusSamsungGalaxyNexusvideoWed, 19 Oct 2011 02:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Camera showdown: iPhone 4S vs. iPhone 4, Galaxy S II, Nokia N8 and Amaze 4G (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/camera-showdown-iphone-4s-vs-iphone-4-galaxy-s-ii-nokia-n8-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/camera-showdown-iphone-4s-vs-iphone-4-galaxy-s-ii-nokia-n8-a/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/17/camera-showdown-iphone-4s-vs-iphone-4-galaxy-s-ii-nokia-n8-a/#comments Siri's sweet and all, but for many of us that new eight megapixel sensor and f/2.4 aperture lens are what really makes Apple's iPhone 4S an appealing upgrade. We spent the weekend shooting around New York City with the iPhone 4S, along with some other top smartphones -- the iPhone 4, Samsung Galaxy S II, Nokia N8 and HTC's Amaze 4G -- in order to determine just which phone's camera reigns supreme. And in order to capture video and stills with consistent framing among all five devices, we secured each smartphone to that homemade quintuple cameraphone mount that you see above -- it may be an early prototype, but it got the job done. Jump past the break to see the results, and check out our comprehensive iPhone 4S sample gallery below.

Gallery: Camera showdown: iPhone 4S Sample Images

Continue reading Camera showdown: iPhone 4S vs. iPhone 4, Galaxy S II, Nokia N8 and Amaze 4G (video)

Camera showdown: iPhone 4S vs. iPhone 4, Galaxy S II, Nokia N8 and Amaze 4G (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3.5-inchappleattcameracamera showdowncameraphonecameraphone shootoutCameraphoneShootoutcamerasCameraShowdowncdmacompcomparisongsmhands-onhspa+ios 5Ios5iphoneiphone 4sIphone4smobilepostcrossphotographyretina displayRetinaDisplayreviewshootoutshowdownsprintverizonvideoMon, 17 Oct 2011 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Motorola Photon 4G review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/15/motorola-photon-4g-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/15/motorola-photon-4g-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/15/motorola-photon-4g-review/#comments It's summer, which means the usual deluge of Android handsets is upon us. The Motorola Photon 4G is Sprint's latest specimen, and follows hot on the heels of HTC's somewhat disappointing EVO 3D. Like its stablemate, it's a proper superphone with a dual-core processor, large qHD display, and of course, WiMAX. Instead of trying to wow us with a gimmicky 3D camera, it differentiates itself by being Sprint's first global phone with WiMAX, and as such supports CDMA / EV-DO for North America along with GSM / HSPA for the rest of the world. Motorola further spices things up with a dash of WebTop functionality, something it first introduced on the Atrix 4G. So, is the Photon just the smartphone flavor du jour, or does it stand out from the seasonal crowd? How does it compare to the EVO 3D and the other Android flagships? Hit the break for our full review.

Gallery: Motorola Photon 4G review

Continue reading Motorola Photon 4G review

Motorola Photon 4G review originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 15 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 GHz1Ghz4.3-inch720p8 megapixel8Megapixel960 x 540960X540AndroidAndroid 2.3Android 2.3.4Android2.3Android2.3.4BlurcameraphoneDLNAdual coredual-coreDualCoreEV-DOfront facing cameraFrontFacingCameraGingerbreadGoogleHSPAkickstandMotoblurMotorolaMotorola Photon 4GMotorolaPhoton4gNVIDIANVIDIA Tegra 2NvidiaTegra2Photon 4GPhoton4gqHDQikreviewSci/TechsmartphoneSprintSprint Photon 4GSprintPhoton4gSwypeTegra 2Tegra2TeleNavvideoWiMAXMon, 15 Aug 2011 13:00:00 EST<![CDATA[T-Mobile myTouch 4G Slide review]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/t-mobile-mytouch-4g-slide-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/t-mobile-mytouch-4g-slide-review/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/02/t-mobile-mytouch-4g-slide-review/#comments Not too long ago, things were pretty simple in T-Mobile's Android land. For us (the nerds, geeks, power users, early adopters, and other misbegotten social deviants) there was the G series of phones with plain Android, culminating recently with LG's delightful G2x. If you wanted to buy your mom an Android smartphone, you'd point her at the myTouch series of handsets with custom HTC Sense-based skins, like last winter's myTouch 4G. Life got a bit more complicated with the introduction of LG's Optimus T, Samsung's Galaxy S 4G, and other devices that don't neatly fit into the carrier's grand branding scheme. Well, fear not! T-Mobile and HTC went ahead and refreshed last summer's lovely myTouch 3G Slide with a dash of dual-core tech lifted right from HTC's Sensation flagship and a bespoke 8 megapixel shooter said to be "the most advanced camera of any smartphone". Those are fighting words... so does the myTouch 4G Slide (as it's called) beat the likes of Samsung's Galaxy S II, Sony Ericsson's Xperia Arc, and Nokia's N8 in terms of imaging performance? Is the sliding keyboard as pleasant to use as its predecessor? And most importantly, is this your mom's next phone? Read on for our full review.

Gallery: T-Mobile myTouch 4G Slide review

Continue reading T-Mobile myTouch 4G Slide review

T-Mobile myTouch 4G Slide review originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 02 Aug 2011 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.2 GHz1.2Ghz1080p3.7-inch8 megapixel800 x 480800X4808MegapixelAdobe ReaderAdobeReaderAdreno 220Adreno220AndroidAndroid 2.3Android 2.3.4Android2.3Android2.3.4AWScameraphoneDLNAdual coredual-coreDualCorefront facing cameraFrontFacingCameraGingerbreadGoogleHDRHSPA+HTCHTC myTouch 4G Slidehtc senseHTC Sense 3.0htc sense uiHtcMytouch4gSlideHtcSenseHtcSense3.0HtcSenseUiInstagramMSM8260myTouch 4G SlideMytouch4gSlidenetflixQikQualcommreviewsenseSense 3.0Sense UISense3.0SenseUismartphoneSnapdragonSuper LCDSuperLcdSwypeT-MobileT-Mobile myTouch 4G SlideT-Mobile TVT-mobileMytouch4gSlideT-mobileTvTeleNavvideoWiFi callingWifiCallingWVGATue, 02 Aug 2011 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[T-Mobile's myTouch 4G Slide shows off its camera chops (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/t-mobile-mytouch-4g-slide-shows-off-its-camera-chops-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/t-mobile-mytouch-4g-slide-shows-off-its-camera-chops-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/07/08/t-mobile-mytouch-4g-slide-shows-off-its-camera-chops-video/#comments
We've known since its recent announcement that T-Mobile's myTouch 4G Slide will be a mobile photographer's delight and now we get to see the camera UI in action on video. As a quick reminder, the carrier's upcoming Gingerbread smartphone is made by HTC and features Sense 3.0, a slide-out QWERTY keyboard, a dual-core 1.2GHz Snapdragon processor, a 3.7-inch WVGA Super LCD display, HSPA+ connectivity on the AWS spectrum, and a trick 8 megapixel shooter. The f2.2 wide-angle lens is combined with a low-light capable sensor and a dual-LED flash, but it's the camera software that really shines. Like on the Sensation, you'll find support for 1080p HD video recording, but the myTouch 4G Slide adds multiple scenes, zero shutter lag technology, continuous autofocus, HDR stills capture, plus panorama and burst modes, along with a dedicated two-stage shutter key. While we doubt it will dethrone Nokia's N8 in term of raw picture quality, we're looking forward to putting HTC's latest feature-packed shooter through its paces when the handset debuts this month for $199 on contract.

T-Mobile's myTouch 4G Slide shows off its camera chops (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 08 Jul 2011 15:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1.2GHz1080p3.7-inchAndroidAndroid 2.3Android2.3AWScameracameraphonedoubleshotdual-coreGingerbreadgingerbread latteGingerbreadLatteGoogleHDRHSPA+HTChtc doubleshotHTC myTouch 4G SlideHtcDoubleshotHtcMytouch4gSlidemyTouch 4G SlideMytouch4gSlidepanoramaQualcommSuper LCDSuperLcdT-MobileT-Mobile myTouch 4G SlideT-mobileMytouch4gSlidevideoWVGAFri, 08 Jul 2011 15:04:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia N9 camera: sample images and video]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/28/nokia-n9-camera-sample-images-and-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/28/nokia-n9-camera-sample-images-and-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/28/nokia-n9-camera-sample-images-and-video/#comments Our first encounter with Nokia's N9 may have been eleven different kinds of awesome, but we knew it was a mere scratch of the high-grade polycarbonate surface. One of the core pieces of functionality we didn't get the chance to address back then was the camera, and after Nokia decided to toot that horn recently -- saying, among other things, that it's the "fastest image-capturing phone" yet -- we decided we had to go back for a second go-around.

In terms of performance, Nokia's camera application definitely lives up to the company's own hype, with nearly instant captures and an equally brisk return to a state of readiness for more image-taking. When shooting video, we noted that audio recording starts slightly later than the video, leaving the first half second or so without sound. This isn't an uncommon issue (we've seen it on other phones and tablets) and can be seen in our video sample after the break. Now might be a good time to also mention that the N9s we tested with today were all prototype units, so don't prejudge Nokia's final hardware on the basis of what you see here. Unless your premature judgment is positive, we doubt Nokia would mind that.

Gallery: Nokia N9 camera sample images


So anyhow, we took a walk around the company's offices, escorted by a group of unarmed but surely lethal Finnish ninjas, taking shots of the surrounding cityscape as we went. The results show the N9 picking up a ton of detail and controlling noise admirably, while a few impromptu ThinkPad hands-on photos convinced us it can do a pretty stellar job with closeups as well. With a name like N9, however, it was obvious which phone we needed to compare Nokia's lone wolf MeeGo handset to, so out came our trusty N8 with its world-beating 12 megapixel sensor. Alas, in spite of having an F2.2 aperture on the N9, Nokia hasn't managed to replicate the heroics of its earlier device: the N8 shows its advantage in consistently picking out better color balance and in also being sharper throughout the frame. It makes the N9's images appear as if they were shot through a haze, though we hasten to add that this should be considered a strength of the older phone rather than a major failure of the new one. Additionally, the N9 suffers from the typically narrow dynamic range of smartphone camera sensors, which is the cause of the consistently blown-out sky in our gallery images. Still, considering the quick software operation and consistently detailed imagery on offer from the N9, we'd say Nokia is on to a winner here.

Gallery: Nokia N9 versus Nokia N8 camera samples


P.S. -- Looking for the full-size 8 megapixel stills from the N9? We've zipped them up for you right here.

Continue reading Nokia N9 camera: sample images and video

Nokia N9 camera: sample images and video originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 28 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameracameraphonecomparisonfighthands-onharmattanhead-to-headmeegon8n9nokianokia n8nokia n9NokiaN8NokiaN9versusvideoTue, 28 Jun 2011 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia claims N9 is 'the fastest image-capturing phone' yet]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/22/nokia-claims-n9-is-the-fastest-image-capturing-phone-yet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/22/nokia-claims-n9-is-the-fastest-image-capturing-phone-yet/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/22/nokia-claims-n9-is-the-fastest-image-capturing-phone-yet/#comments We've already established that the N9 is a delight of a phone, both inside and out, but our hands-on time with Nokia's new flagship gave us only a brief look at its camera performance. Now the company is graciously filling that gap in our knowledge with some further disclosure about its new 8 megapixel imager, including the lofty claim that the N9 is the fastest phone yet when it comes to capturing an image -- ousting the likes of the iPhone 4, the Galaxy S II, and even the Canon S95, perhaps the best pocket camera around at the moment. Measuring the time taken from activating the camera app to the completion of the first shot, the N9 clocks in at 2.6 seconds, whereas Apple's latest does it in 3 seconds and Samsung's takes a split second more. Aside from its speed, the N9 has Carl Zeiss optics, a wide F2.2 max aperture, dual-LED flash, continuous autofocus, and a 720/30p video mode to boast about, but the benefits of those items will need to be experienced first hand. So Nokia, when are you shipping this thing?

Nokia claims N9 is 'the fastest image-capturing phone' yet originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Jun 2011 05:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>8 megapixel8Megapixelautofocuscameracameraphonecarl zeissCarlZeissjens wilkesJensWilkeslatencymeegon9nokianokia n9NokiaN9performancequicknessresponsivenesssmartphonespeedWed, 22 Jun 2011 05:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple iOS 5 adds instant camera access from lock screen and shutter release to volume-up button]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/apple-adds-camera-shortcut-to-lock-screen-volume-up-shutter-key/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/apple-adds-camera-shortcut-to-lock-screen-volume-up-shutter-key/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/06/apple-adds-camera-shortcut-to-lock-screen-volume-up-shutter-key/#comments
Apple's just announced that iOS 5-enabled iPhones (and likely iPads and iPods, too) are getting a camera shortcut on the lock screen and a shutter button in the form of the volume up key -- a feature that got Camera+ temporarily banned from the App Store last year on the grounds that it used unauthorized APIs. Also new to iOS: the ability to tap and hold to lock focus and exposure on a subject. Rounding out the list, Apple also added an optional grid to help frame photos, and a new photo editor with a basic feature set that includes cropping, rotating, red-eye reduction, auto-enhance features, and the ability to create albums on the device.

Gallery: iOS 5 Camera app

Continue reading Apple iOS 5 adds instant camera access from lock screen and shutter release to volume-up button

Apple iOS 5 adds instant camera access from lock screen and shutter release to volume-up button originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 14:12:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AE lockAeLockAF lockAfLockappleauto-enhancecameracameraphoneiOSiOS 5Ios5iPadiPhoneiPhone 4Iphone4iPod touchIpodTouchlock screenLockScreenphoto editorPhotoEditorred-eye reductionRed-eyeReductionshort sellersShortSellersshuttershutter buttonshutter keyShutterButtonShutterKeytouch-to-focusvolume buttonVolumeButtonWWDCWWDC 2011Wwdc2011Mon, 06 Jun 2011 14:12:00 EST<![CDATA[Qualcomm takes sci-fi one step closer to reality at Computex 2011 (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/03/qualcomm-takes-sci-fi-one-step-closer-to-reality-at-computex-vi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/03/qualcomm-takes-sci-fi-one-step-closer-to-reality-at-computex-vi/http://www.engadget.com/2011/06/03/qualcomm-takes-sci-fi-one-step-closer-to-reality-at-computex-vi/#comments While flying cars are still a pipe dream, other technologies are quickly transitioning from the stuff of sci-fi movies into the very tangible realm of reality. This was definitely the case at the Qualcomm booth here at Computex where we got to experience two interesting new technologies -- zero shutter lag and the ultrasonic pen. What if when you pressed the shutter button on your phone the camera captured 2 frames before, one frame during, and 2 frames after that instant? That's the idea behind Scalado's zero shutter lag and Rewind, which speed up the process of taking pictures on a phone by letting the camera continuously sample images and allowing the user to create a composite shot from the content available in up to 5 frames.

Also on display was Qualcomm's ultrasonic pen that we already played with at MWC. By using an ultrasonic transducer attached to a pen and a phone with 3 microphones (like the MSM8660 Mobile Development Platform), the ultrasonic signal can be triangulated to determine the location of the pen. Once calibrated, the phone is able to accurately capture handwriting either on the screen itself or on a standard sheet of paper up to 30cm away. We noticed that accuracy and distance appear to have improved since February -- at this pace, perhaps we'll all have flying cars soon after all? Check out the gallery and hit the break for our hands-on video.

Gallery: Qualcomm zero shutter lag and ultrasonic pen hands on

Continue reading Qualcomm takes sci-fi one step closer to reality at Computex 2011 (video)

Qualcomm takes sci-fi one step closer to reality at Computex 2011 (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Jun 2011 02:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camera phoneCameraPhoneComputexComputex 2011Computex2011digital cameraDigitalCamerahands-onhandwritinghandwriting recognitionHandwritingRecognitionMDPQualcommRewindScaladoScalado Camera SolutionScalado RewindScaladoCameraSolutionScaladoRewindultrasonicultrasonic penUltrasonicPenvideowirelesszero shutter lagZeroShutterLagFri, 03 Jun 2011 02:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Mystery HTC Windows Phone sports 12 megapixel goodness, RAW support]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/30/mystery-htc-windows-phone-sports-12-megapixel-goodness-raw-supp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/30/mystery-htc-windows-phone-sports-12-megapixel-goodness-raw-supp/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/30/mystery-htc-windows-phone-sports-12-megapixel-goodness-raw-supp/#comments Phone cameras still have a ways to go to catch up to the awesome capabilities of your standard DSLR, but the handset captured in the image above would certainly get them headed in the right direction. International phone review superstar Eldar Murtazin snapped a few shots of an as-of-yet unnamed HTC device running Windows Phone. It sports a look very similar to the HTC Trophy, although this particular gem is capable of capturing images at 12 megapixel resolution -- comparable to the Nokia N8. We can tell from Eldar's tweets and images, however, that it's gone one step further by adding support for pictures in RAW format. We're still waiting to get more information about this device, but for now we invite you to enjoy the images above and below.

Continue reading Mystery HTC Windows Phone sports 12 megapixel goodness, RAW support

Mystery HTC Windows Phone sports 12 megapixel goodness, RAW support originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 30 May 2011 07:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12 megapixel12 MP12Megapixel12Mpcameracameraphoneeldar murtazinEldarMurtazinhtcleaksmicrosoftRAWwindowswindows phonewindows phone 7WindowsPhoneWindowsPhone7wp7Mon, 30 May 2011 07:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Mr. Blurrycam outs Sony Ericsson's future Android-powered Cyber-shot?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/mr-blurrycam-outs-sony-ericssons-future-android-powered-cyber/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/mr-blurrycam-outs-sony-ericssons-future-android-powered-cyber/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/13/mr-blurrycam-outs-sony-ericssons-future-android-powered-cyber/#comments Yes, the blurrycam snapshot you're now squinting at is purported to be Sony Ericsson's resurrection of its Cyber-shot phone -- yet unlike prior endeavors, this shooter is rumored to be fueled by Android. Beyond the touchscreen interface, however, there's scant few details to go on -- other than prior rumblings that Sony is developing a camera with 3G connectivity. Frankly, we love a great lens, but when apps, messaging and voice get added to the equation, it becomes utterly delightful. Needless to say, this leak arrives in a lovely twist of irony as one of the blurriest outings we've seen in recent memory. We're just hoping Mr. Blurrycam wasn't fumbling with a Google-powered Carl Zeiss when going sans-tripod in front of this one.

[Thanks, Uncle Lala]

Mr. Blurrycam outs Sony Ericsson's future Android-powered Cyber-shot? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 May 2011 13:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3GandroidblurrycamcameraCameraPhonecamerascarl zeissCarlZeisscellularcyber-shotcybershotgooglemobilerumorrumorsSONYSonyEricssontouchscreenFri, 13 May 2011 13:56:00 EST<![CDATA[OmniVision's new 12MP CMOS sensor shoots RAW pics and 1080/60p video, looks for smartphone home]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/omnivisions-new-12mp-cmos-sensor-shoots-raw-pics-and-1080-60p-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/omnivisions-new-12mp-cmos-sensor-shoots-raw-pics-and-1080-60p-v/http://www.engadget.com/2011/04/14/omnivisions-new-12mp-cmos-sensor-shoots-raw-pics-and-1080-60p-v/#comments So what if Apple looks set to abandon OmniVision in favor of Sony with its next round of portable device cameras? The company that currently provides the none-too-shabby 5 megapixel imager inside the iPhone 4 has just announced a new 12 megapixel sensor and it's a bit of a beast. The OV12825 pairs the goodness of backside illumination with the ability to shoot RAW stills and 1080p video at a bodacious 60fps. Funnily enough, neither feature is a novelty for OmniVision, which has already given the world the option to shoot RAW and to crank Full HD video at 60fps, but nobody has yet been willing to maximize the previous sensors' capabilities. Now that we're finally seeing efficient dual-core solutions making it to smartphones, maybe the time has come? After all, there's gotta be something else to look forward to after 1080/30p, right? OmniVision is offering samples to interested companies right now and expects volume production in the second quarter of the year. Full PR after the break.

Continue reading OmniVision's new 12MP CMOS sensor shoots RAW pics and 1080/60p video, looks for smartphone home

OmniVision's new 12MP CMOS sensor shoots RAW pics and 1080/60p video, looks for smartphone home originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 14 Apr 2011 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1080p12 megapixel12Megapixelannouncedbackside-illuminatedbackside-illuminated sensorBackside-illuminatedSensorbsicameracamera sensorcameraphoneCameraSensorcmoscmos sensorCmosSensorcomponentshardwarehdhd videoHdVideoomnibsiomnivisionOV12825sensorsmartphoneThu, 14 Apr 2011 12:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Microsoft application creates 3D model using a cellphone, blows our minds]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/24/microsoft-application-creates-3d-model-using-a-cellphone-blows/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/24/microsoft-application-creates-3d-model-using-a-cellphone-blows/http://www.engadget.com/2011/03/24/microsoft-application-creates-3d-model-using-a-cellphone-blows/#comments Using your smartphone to take regular, or heck, even 3D images, is so last-gen -- thanks to Microsoft's Interactive Visual Media Group, we shall soon be able to use its new app to generate virtual 3D models. For example, if you want to capture that Ferrari on your neighbor's driveway, you'll need to circumambulate it while shooting around 40 photos. The final product, which is compiled using some beefed up PhotoSynth magic as each shot is uploaded to the cloud, is a beautifully crafted 3D model that can be panned around surprisingly smoothly. Hit play on the video below to feast your eyes on Redmond's new trick.

[Thanks, @scienceben]

Continue reading Microsoft application creates 3D model using a cellphone, blows our minds

Microsoft application creates 3D model using a cellphone, blows our minds originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 24 Mar 2011 08:13:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3 dimensional3d3d image3d model3dImage3Dimensional3dModelcameracamera phoneCameraPhonecellphonecellphone cameraCellphoneCameraimageinteractive visual media groupInteractiveVisualMediaGroupmicrosoftmodelphotophotosynthpictureredmondrenderrenderingsmartphonetouchscreenvideoThu, 24 Mar 2011 08:13:00 EST<![CDATA[Pelican Imaging's prototype array camera could make your pictures better, phones thinner (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/10/pelican-imagings-prototype-array-camera-could-make-your-picture/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/10/pelican-imagings-prototype-array-camera-could-make-your-picture/http://www.engadget.com/2011/02/10/pelican-imagings-prototype-array-camera-could-make-your-picture/#commentsPelican's prototype array camera could make your pictures better, phones thinner (video) If you want to look for life on another planet you don't build one radio telescope that's miles wide, you build a bunch of smaller ones and create an array out of them. As it turns out that basic idea works for capturing visible wavelengths as well. It's called a plenoptic camera, using an array of very small lenses that, when combined, can create an image as good as a larger one. Pelican Imaging is largely interested in the slim factor this kind of system could offer, potentially allowing for thinner phones, but this could also open the door to some interesting effects. Check out the video after the break for an example of the dynamic aperture control this sort of setup can allow, where you can change the focal plane of an image after it was taken. Given the small size of the array here you probably couldn't do anything too crazy, like take a picture through a tree, but the days of poorly focused cameraphone shots might finally be at an end -- whenever this actually comes to market.

Continue reading Pelican Imaging's prototype array camera could make your pictures better, phones thinner (video)

Pelican Imaging's prototype array camera could make your pictures better, phones thinner (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 10 Feb 2011 11:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>arraycamera arrayCameraArraycameraphoneconceptdigital cameraDigitalCamerapelicanpelican imagingPelicanImagingplenoptic cameraPlenopticCameraprototypevideoThu, 10 Feb 2011 11:05:00 EST<![CDATA[WVIL's unbelievable 31 megapixel cameraphone is unbelievably fake, attempts pathetic viral campaign (update)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/wvils-unbelievable-31-megapixel-cameraphone-is-unbelievably-fak/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/wvils-unbelievable-31-megapixel-cameraphone-is-unbelievably-fak/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/wvils-unbelievable-31-megapixel-cameraphone-is-unbelievably-fak/#comments Honestly, we never thought people could get this high and drunk in Vegas, but the guys from WVIL were really pushing it. Their crime? A blatantly staged viral campaign for an "unbelievable" smartphone that sports a 31 megapixel CMOS full frame sensor. Oh, and it has an interchangeable lens, too, with which you can use the main body as a wireless viewfinder (like the Samsung SH100 paired up with an Android phone). Nice concept, WVIL, just too bad your mom called to disown you at CES. Video after the break.

Update: The Artefact Group, a Seattle design firm, just emailed to inform us that the idea is their own -- see the whole concept at our more coverage link below.

Gallery: WVIL's unbelievable 31 megapixel cameraphone is unbelievably fake, attempts pathetic viral campaign

Continue reading WVIL's unbelievable 31 megapixel cameraphone is unbelievably fake, attempts pathetic viral campaign (update)

WVIL's unbelievable 31 megapixel cameraphone is unbelievably fake, attempts pathetic viral campaign (update) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 20:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameraphonecesces 2011Ces2011comedyfakefunnygermanyhilariouspatheticremote viewfinderRemoteViewfindervideoviralwildwvilTue, 11 Jan 2011 20:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Aigo A8 / Leo 14 megapixel cameraphone hands-on (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/aigo-a8-leo-14-megapixel-cameraphone-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/aigo-a8-leo-14-megapixel-cameraphone-hands-on-video/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/11/aigo-a8-leo-14-megapixel-cameraphone-hands-on-video/#comments We were wandering the floor at CES just before the end of the show when we stumbled upon this oddly familiar device. It's the Aigo A8 -- née Altek Leo -- an Android cameraphone (more like a phonecamera, really) destined for China Unicom that sports a 14 megapixel autofocus camera with a CCD sensor, xenon flash, 3x optical zoom, and support for 720p HD video recording. Of course, we wasted no time taking this rare beast for a spin, even going so far as to sample the camera. Take a look at the pictures below, followed by more information -- and videos -- after the break.

Gallery: Aigo A8 / Leo 14 megapixel cameraphone hands-on (video)


Gallery: Aigo A8 / Leo 14 megapixel cameraphone sample pictures

Continue reading Aigo A8 / Leo 14 megapixel cameraphone hands-on (video)

Aigo A8 / Leo 14 megapixel cameraphone hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 11 Jan 2011 16:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>aigoaigo a8AigoA8altekaltek leoAltekLeoAndroid2.1camera phoneCameraPhonecesces 2011ces2011EclairGooglehands-onphone cameraPhoneCameravideoTue, 11 Jan 2011 16:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Nexus S shows off its camera, video recording abilities]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/04/nexus-s-shows-off-its-camera-video-recording-abilities/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/04/nexus-s-shows-off-its-camera-video-recording-abilities/http://www.engadget.com/2010/12/04/nexus-s-shows-off-its-camera-video-recording-abilities/#comments At this point, there's essentially nothing that we don't already know about the Nexus S... except when it'll be officially revealed, of course. But up until now, we haven't had a good look at what exactly the impending smartphone's camera sensor could do. Thanks to an unsuspecting Picasa stream, we're now being treated to a handful of images captured by a Samsung GT-I9020 -- or in other terms, a Nexus S. Better still, someone uploaded a brief video clip of its HD motion capturing abilities, and that's embedded just past the break (horizontal and portrait versions, to boot). Have a peek yourself and see if you're impressed.

[Thanks, Anonymous]

Continue reading Nexus S shows off its camera, video recording abilities

Nexus S shows off its camera, video recording abilities originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 04 Dec 2010 12:44:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidcamcordercameracameraphonegooglegoogle androidGoogleAndroidGT-I9020GT-I9020tnexus sNexusSsamsungsamsung nexus sSamsungNexusSsmartphonevideovideo cameravideo recordingVideoCameraVideoRecordingSat, 04 Dec 2010 12:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Osram's new LED package 50 percent brighter, promises cameraphone flashes that suck 50 percent less]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/28/osrams-new-led-package-50-percent-brighter-promises-cameraphon/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/28/osrams-new-led-package-50-percent-brighter-promises-cameraphon/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/28/osrams-new-led-package-50-percent-brighter-promises-cameraphon/#comments See those smiling twentysomethings up there? That, folks, is the kind of happiness that can only be achieved with 150 glorious lux of LED intensity. Fortunately, Siemens subsidiary Osram Opto Semiconductors has packaged a new LED chip that capable of putting up such impressive figures, a claimed 50 percent brighter than its predecessor -- and that makes it capable of evenly illuminating a 90-centimeter area from a distance of one meter away. Cameraphone flashes are an obvious application, but pocket projectors are another obvious benefactor -- it's nearly impossible to eke enough light out of 'em, and this should help. It's not clear whether a brighter pocket projector would have the same positive effect on the demeanor of a bunch of stylish youths, though -- more on that situation as we get it.

Osram's new LED package 50 percent brighter, promises cameraphone flashes that suck 50 percent less originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 28 Nov 2010 02:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camera phoneCameraPhoneledlightosramosram optoosram opto semiconductorOsramOptoOsramOptoSemiconductorpocket projectorPocketProjectorprojectorSun, 28 Nov 2010 02:02:00 EST<![CDATA[LG L-03C has 3x optical zoom, 12 megapixel CCD sensor, Xenon flash -- and it can make phone calls!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/08/lg-l-03c-has-3x-optical-zoom-12-megapixel-ccd-sensor-xenon-fla/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/08/lg-l-03c-has-3x-optical-zoom-12-megapixel-ccd-sensor-xenon-fla/http://www.engadget.com/2010/11/08/lg-l-03c-has-3x-optical-zoom-12-megapixel-ccd-sensor-xenon-fla/#comments Dear Nokia and Samsung, please come to reception to collect your old and busted 12 megapixel cameraphones. The new king of the phonecamera heap, in appearance at least, has arrived in the shape of LG's L-03C. It comes with a retractable 3x optical zoom lens from Pentax, a 12 megapixel CCD sensor, a Xenon flash, and a 720p movie recording mode. The L-03C is also intentionally styled to remind users of the more timeless compact camera designs of the past (and present) and it's only by entering the NTT DoCoMo OS and hitting up the dialer that you discover that it's also a cellular phone to boot. In spite of its 3-inch display and 800 x 480 resolution, this is still strictly just a featurephone, but it's sure put in a lot of work to make sure one of those features stands out. Look out for it in Japan from this January.

LG L-03C has 3x optical zoom, 12 megapixel CCD sensor, Xenon flash -- and it can make phone calls! originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 03:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>12 megapixel12Megapixel3x optical zoom3x zoom3xOpticalZoom3xZoom720pcameracameraphoneccddigicamdigital cameraDigitalCameradocomojapanl-03l-03clglg l-03lg l-03cLgL-03LgL-03cntt docomoNttDocomopentaxpentax lensPentaxLensphonecamerapoint and shootpoint-and-shootPointAndShootxenonxenon flashXenonFlashMon, 08 Nov 2010 03:53:00 EST<![CDATA[Hack improves Nokia N8's image and video quality, puts a hurting on your memory card (video)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/06/hack-improves-nokia-n8s-image-and-video-quality-puts-a-hurting/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/06/hack-improves-nokia-n8s-image-and-video-quality-puts-a-hurting/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/06/hack-improves-nokia-n8s-image-and-video-quality-puts-a-hurting/#commentsHack improves Nokia N8's image and video quality, puts a hurting on your memory card (video) Clearly a lot of folks out there are pretty passionate about the quality of their cameraphone pics. So too is cellphone modder hyperX, who is developing some custom tweaks to improve the quality of the stills and vids coming out of Nokia's latest darling. First is a hack to enable 720p30 video, a slight improvement over the 720p25 default. That's demonstrated after the break, along with a continuous autofocus mod. More notable, however, is a tweak to enable nearly uncompressed images. Stock JPEGs coming from the camera clock in around 2MB, but the example image he's provided (on the other end of that source link) is a rather heftier 11MB -- truly a hack that won't do your memory card any favors, but it'll sure make those pixels shine. Sadly without back-to-back before and after images we can't say for sure what kind of tangible improvement this makes, but we hear if you ask nicely he'll let you try it out for yourself.

Continue reading Hack improves Nokia N8's image and video quality, puts a hurting on your memory card (video)

Hack improves Nokia N8's image and video quality, puts a hurting on your memory card (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 08:18:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>11 megapixel11Megapixelcameraphonehackhyperxmodn8nokiaromvideoWed, 06 Oct 2010 08:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Altek Leo, the 14 megapixel Android cameraphone, headed for Europe in 2011]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/03/altek-leo-the-14-megapixel-android-cameraphone-headed-for-euro/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/03/altek-leo-the-14-megapixel-android-cameraphone-headed-for-euro/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/03/altek-leo-the-14-megapixel-android-cameraphone-headed-for-euro/#comments Altek's wonderfully outlandish Android-based Leo smartphone, which sports a "real" 14 megapixel CCD with "real" 3x optical zoom and 720p video, was already slated for Q4 of this year in Asia, but Altek has recently announced the phone will also be launching Q1 2011 in Europe. On a slightly disconcerting note, Altek says it's still in search of "channel partners," so if you happen to know any channel / partner combos, push this little monster in their direction before 14 megapixels starts to sound old hat, would you?

Continue reading Altek Leo, the 14 megapixel Android cameraphone, headed for Europe in 2011

Altek Leo, the 14 megapixel Android cameraphone, headed for Europe in 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 03 Oct 2010 08:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>14 megapixel14Megapixelaltekaltek leoAltekLeoandroidcameracameraphoneccdeuropeleoSun, 03 Oct 2010 08:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony outsourcing some image sensor production to Fujitsu]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/01/sony-said-to-outsource-some-image-sensor-production-to-fujitsu/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/01/sony-said-to-outsource-some-image-sensor-production-to-fujitsu/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/01/sony-said-to-outsource-some-image-sensor-production-to-fujitsu/#commentsWhoa. Sony sure didn't mention anything about this at its Photokina press conference last week, but then again, it's not the most glamorous announcement to make. According to Reuters, Sony is aiming to "outsource some production of image sensors used in digital cameras and mobile phones to Fujitsu," and as you'd expect, it's being done in a bid to shave costs and "cope with tough global competition." According to a Sony spokesperson, the company has been mulling this decision for awhile, but it's unclear if this will have any further impact in Sony's employment numbers. It's also unclear why "some" sensor production will remain internal -- we're guessing that newfangled Translucent Mirror technology may have convinced the firm to keep the DSLR lines a bit closer to the chest. It's bruited that Sony will begin subcontracting output to Fujitsu later in the year, and it could shift even more output if things go swimmingly. Funny enough, an eerily similar scenario hit Sony's LCD department back in early 2008. What's next? Subcontracting Walkman production to Apple?

Sony outsourcing some image sensor production to Fujitsu originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>businesscameracameraphoneCCDCMOScost cuttingCostCuttingdigicamdigital cameraDigitalCameradslrfujitsuimage sensorImageSensorindustryoutsourceoutsourcingpoint and shootpoint-and-shootPointAndShootproductionsensorsensorssonyFri, 01 Oct 2010 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Panasonic teases a 13.2MP 'Lumix phone' for October 5 unveiling]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/01/panasonic-teases-a-13-2mp-lumix-phone-for-october-5-unveiling/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/01/panasonic-teases-a-13-2mp-lumix-phone-for-october-5-unveiling/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/01/panasonic-teases-a-13-2mp-lumix-phone-for-october-5-unveiling/#comments Looks like we'll soon have another heavyweight to throw into the renewed cameraphone wars, as Panasonic has put up a teaser site for its first Lumix-branded phone. Lumix is of course Panasonic's camera label, which counts among its luminary membership the likes of the GF1 and the newly refreshed LX5. The new phone shooter promises to beat both in terms of pure resolution with its 13.2 megapixel CMOS sensor, which is accompanied by a 3.3-inch LCD atop a 146-gram body. Much like Nokia's N8 and its protruding sensor compartment, this Lumix handset will have to make room for its expanded imaging equipment, which is why it'll offer a comparatively chubby 17.7mm thickness, to go along with a 116mm height and 52mm width. We'll know more next week when CEATEC 2010 gets rolling over in Tokyo.

[Thanks, Anton]

P.S. -- It's also noteworthy that Panasonic's press release indicates a folding mechanism for this handset, which, given current trends in Japan, makes it most likely to be a clamshell device. It's also got some DLNA voodoo inside and is coming out by the end of this fiscal year (April 2011).

Panasonic teases a 13.2MP 'Lumix phone' for October 5 unveiling originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 01 Oct 2010 05:38:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cameraphoneceatecceatec 2010Ceatec2010dlnahandsetjapanlumixlumix phoneLumixPhonepanasonicpanasonic lumixPanasonicLumixpre-launchpre-releaseteaseteaservenusvenus engineVenusEngineFri, 01 Oct 2010 05:38:00 EST<![CDATA[Nokia N8 vs. iPhone 4: camera showdown]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/30/nokia-n8-vs-iphone-4-camera-showdown/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/30/nokia-n8-vs-iphone-4-camera-showdown/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/30/nokia-n8-vs-iphone-4-camera-showdown/#comments What's the first thing you should do when you get the N8? Considering it packs the biggest image sensor embedded in a phone yet, Carl Zeiss optics, and an eight-digit pixel count, it seemed obvious to us that the answer was to take it on a picture- and video-taking stroll around London. On our way out we saw our iPhone 4 looking all sad and lonely, so we went ahead and brought it along as well. Below you shall find one gallery of pure, unadulterated N8 sample shots, another interspersed with the iPhone's results for comparison's sake, and a final one with side-by-side 100 percent crops from each image taker. Once you've digested all of those, we suggest hopping past the break and tucking into some tasty video comparisons for dessert.

Naturally, all the images are entirely unretouched (but for our masterly watermarking) and the iPhone 4's HDR hocus pocus has been left off. We've also provided a zip file containing all the full-res imagery shot with the N8 in a link below.

A quick note is also merited about the N8's resolution. The sensor's display ratio is 4:3, which means that full 12 megapixel shots are only available in those dimensions. The camera software, however, defaults to shooting 9 megapixel snaps at the increasingly popular 16:9 ratio -- this is done simply by cropping away the "excess" bars at the top and bottom of the image, meaning that the 9 megapixel images are giving us identical performance as the 12 megapixel ones, they're just chopped down (from 4000 x 3000 to 4000 x 2248) for the sake of convenience. Now, on with the show!

Gallery: Nokia N8 sample photos

Gallery: Nokia N8 vs. iPhone 4: cameraphone fight!

Gallery: Nokia N8 vs. iPhone 4: full resolution crops

Continue reading Nokia N8 vs. iPhone 4: camera showdown

Nokia N8 vs. iPhone 4: camera showdown originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 30 Sep 2010 23:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecameracameraphonecameraphonescamerascarl zeissCarlZeisscomparisonface offFaceOfffighthead to headhead-to-headHeadToHeadiphoneiphone 4Iphone4londonn8nokianokia n8NokiaN8showdownside by sideside-by-sideSideBySidesmartphonesukunited kingdomUnitedKingdomversusvideovsThu, 30 Sep 2010 23:57:00 EST