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HMD hopes Zeiss can restore 'Nokia' phones to their former glory
Nokia's strong reputation in phone photography stemmed in no small part from its use of Carl Zeiss optics. Whether you had an N95 or a Lumia 1020, you knew the glass wouldn't let you down. But what's happening now that HMD Global is the one making Nokia-branded phones? Are they doomed to photographic mediocrity? Apparently, you can relax. HMD has struck a deal that will see Zeiss' imaging tech used in Nokia handsets. It won't just be limited to lens design, either. The two plan to work together on "standard-defining imaging capabilities" ranging from software to screen quality.
Carl Zeiss thinks it can make smart glasses you'll want to wear
After the initial bubble of excitement, Google Glass was ultimately rejected by the public and sent back to the drawing board, all for one simple reason: Despite repeated attempts to tone down the design of Glass and make it more familiar, it remained an alien thing to see on someone's face. Add in privacy concerns stemming from that camera and a lack of a clear use case and it's no surprise that the idea of face-worn wearables took a major hit.
Microsoft's 5.7-inch Lumia 950 XL is liquid cooled and $649
While the Surface Pro 4 may garner the bulk of the attention from today's Microsoft event, the folks in Redmond had other stuff to reveal, too. Those other announcements include a pair of smartphones, one of which is the supersized Lumia 950 XL. Thanks to a handful of leaks, we already had an idea what the handset would look like and some details of its spec sheet. The 950 XL features a larger OLED screen than its sibling, measuring 5.7 inches at 518 ppi. It also offers 32GB of storage that you can expand via microSD card up to a whopping (theoretical) 2TB. There's a 20-megapixel camera with a Zeiss lens around back with triple LED RGB natural flash, optical image stabilization and a dedicated camera button as well, continuing to leverage the photo chops from Nokia. That wordy flash description basically means people will look more natural in photos where you have to employ said feature. And, of course, all of that runs on Windows 10.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-QX10/DSC-QX100 smartphone lenses to ship later this month
Rumors have been flying about a pair of camera lens accessories from Sony that will work with the iPhone and Android phones. Now AppleInsider is reporting that details have been leaked on the Cyber-shot DSC-QX10 (about US$250) and DSC-QX100 (about $500), both of which are set to be announced tomorrow and launched later in September. The news was initially published by SonyAlpha Rumors earlier today, complete with an advertisement showing how the lenses work. They can be used totally detached from a phone and controlled by the Sony PlayMemories Mobile app (free), which allows the iPhone to be used as a real-time viewfinder. The lenses use WiFi to connect to the iPhone or an Android device, but can also store images on a microSD card of up to 64 GB capacity. The entry-level DSC-QX10 has a 1/2.3-inch Exmor CMOS sensor and a Sony G 9 lens. That combination gives the lens 18.9-megapixel images and a 10 times optical zoom. The DSC-QX100 has a 1-inch Exmor sensor capable of grabbing 20.9-megapixel photos, and has a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens with a fast F1.8 aperture, although not as much of an optical zoom range. Should you decide that you'd like to have the lens attached to your iPhone "DSLR-style," there's a camera attachment case that the lens snaps onto. These lenses are a fascinating photography accessory for the iPhone that will bring iPhoneography to a higher level. Check out the video demonstrating the DSC-QX10 and DSC-QX100 below.
Zeiss Cinemizer head-mounted OLED display wends its way into stores
Zeiss must be doing well in the lens business, as it hasn't exactly been in a rush to get its Cinemizer OLED on to shelves. Still, we're happy to say that the head-mounted display is at last slipping into retailers: Amazon partners are now carrying the regular 870 x 500 version for $749 in the US (German titling aside) and £578 in the UK. It doesn't look to be the version with head tracking that we tried earlier this year, but you'll still get a 3D image through HDMI 1.4 in addition to 2D through either the HDMI link or analog input. The price makes it a tempting alternative to the more advanced but costlier Sony HMZ-T2 -- and for those who'd like something slightly more discreet-looking while they zone out with a good movie.
Sony Cyber-shot RX1 sample images and video
When we first got our hands on Sony's full-frame compact camera, the Cyber-shot RX1, we were allowed to touch it, but we couldn't use it for its stated purpose. Today, however, we got to put its 35mm image sensor and Zeiss Sonnar T* 35mm f/2.0 fixed prime lens to the test at a Sony event in San Francisco. Join us after the break to see a bit more of the City by the Bay and learn how the RX1 performed shooting stills and video.
Keepin' it real fake: the 808 PureView that wasn't
Meet the 808 Android: the modern day equivalent of those fake mobile antennas that people would attach to their cars in order to make others think they were a big shot. Yes, this device is an Android 2.3-powered forgery of Nokia's 808 PureView, but instead of 41 megapixels of imaging awesomeness, you'll find a mere 3.2MP setup that occupies the presumably hollow protrusion on the rear. Keeping with the theme of slumming things up, the 808 Android offers a 550MHz CPU, a 3.5-inch HVGA resistive touch display, a stylus for easier input and data connectivity that tops out at EDGE. If you were wondering, yes, it's a dual-SIM phone. All of this -- complete with rip-off Carl Zeiss badging -- can be yours for just $73.50. Be sure to peep the gallery below, where you can almost smell the shame. %Gallery-165849%
Sony's Cyber-shot RX1 compact camera packs a full-frame sensor, 'fits in your palm' (hands-on)
Would you believe us if we told you Sony packed a full-frame sensor in a Cyber-shot-branded camera? It's true! Say hello to the RX1, a "compact" digital camera for pros that's packing the same 24.3MP Exmor CMOS sensor introduced today with the A99. Calling the rangefinder-esque one-pound shooter small might seem off-base, especially considering the Zeiss Sonnar T* 35mm f/2.0 fixed prime lens protruding from its front, but it's not so huge (3-inches high by 4.5-inches wide) up against its tiny sibling, the RX100 -- taking into account how much larger the RX1's sensor is, well, that's when this editor's jaw basically dropped. While it's not a "pro-NEX" as many had hoped, Sony explained that it chose a fixed lens to avoid the bulk of a lens-mount. We were able to get some eyes-on time with an engineering prototype of the unit, so click past the break for more details, close-ups and a brief video overview. %Gallery-164840%
Nokia 808 PureView flashes backstage pass, shows off video chops
When it comes to smartphone photography and videography, the Nokia 808 PureView is the truth. We glowed about the device's optical prowess in our in-depth review, but some of you still may not be convinced. For the skeptics still out there, we present you with Exhibit A: a clip from an 808 taken at a Foo Fighters cover-band gig. Cacophonous sound, constant lighting changes and front men with long flowing locks swaying to and fro... there's no doubt that a rock concert is the place where a video camera can prove its mettle, especially when it comes to audio. Slide past the break, crank the video quality up to 1080p and watch Nokia's 41-megapixel machine do its thing. Be sure to pay special attention to the audio clarity and feel free to pay homage to the 808's Rich Recording engine in the comments.
Nokia 808 PureView heads to Mexico, sends high-resolution postcards
Hold off on that Aeroflot booking just for now. While this isn't the US release many will be anticipating, it looks like Nokia's big-eyed 808 PureView phone is getting a release a little closer to home. Those of you wanting to sample some of that 41-megapixel delight, now need only plan a trip south of the border, as Mexico is set to start selling the handset sometime this month. Much like its Russian and Indian debut, specifics on dates are sparse, with the Spanish version of the Nokia blog only going as far to say "some weeks later" (than the India / Russia release) qualifying that, however, as "this month". At least if you do venture down you can bank on some killer holiday pics.
Nokia 808 PureView available this month in Russia and India
Are you eagerly awaiting to get your hands on that 41 megapixel Symbian Belle flagship? We bet you are, and perhaps today is your lucky day -- if you live in Russia or India, that is. Nokia's just officially announced that the 808 PureView will be available this month "in select markets." Strangely, the company didn't give a specific date or list any countries beyond the aforementioned two. The handset, which was revealed at Mobile World Congress in February, is expected to retail for 450 Euros and "revolutionize the imaging experience" with its large sensor, Zeiss optics and pixel oversampling technology. Speaking of which -- Nokia's also just renewed its partnership with the German lens manufacturer. Coincidence? We think not. Check out the full PR after the break.
Sony A77 and A65 firmware update v1.05 peps up your laggy dials, improves autofocus
It's no secret that Sony's A77 and A65 SLT cameras have suffered from noticeable lag when it comes to adjusting exposure settings, among other things. For those irked, you'll be pleased to know that the company has just updated both cameras to firmware version 1.05, claiming it'll "sharpen their responses." Specifically, you'll be noticing faster cold startups shutdowns, quicker response times from the front and rear dials and faster access to images in auto review. That's not all, however, as Sony has also added in-camera shading and chromatic aberration compensation for 11 of its A-mount lenses, which can translate to less time cooking your images in post. Last, but not least, the A77 gets an extra bonus for its autofocus system that improves its abilities in high-contrast environments, while the SAL500F40G 500mm F4 G SSM super-telephoto lens will now focus faster with both shooters. Shutter finger already twitching? Don't delay, you'll find full details in the press release after the break and download information at the source link below. Be sure to let us know how it treats you in the comments.
Zeiss Cinemizer OLED with head-tracking hands-on (video)
The Carl Zeiss Cinemizer OLED has been a long time in the making -- we first heard about the video glasses at Macworld in 2008 -- but the company has yet to push the head-mounted display past the prototype phase. We stumbled upon Zeiss' booth here at CeBIT, where we found a version of the glasses that look mighty similar to the mock-up we saw in marketing materials from 2010, but are now equipped with a pair of head-tracking modules to expand the yet-to-be released marvel's practicality. With head-tracking now on board, the Cinemizer can theoretically appeal to gamers, architects, even educators, who can use the glasses in the classroom.We took a look at an Inreal CAD app demo that lets the wearer navigate a yet-unbuilt house, walking through virtual rooms (a joystick is used for forward motion, so you won't be accidentally walking into physical walls) as you judge paint colors, furniture placement and try to convince your significant other that there really is room for a 65-inch HDTV. The tracking modules are located behind the ear rests on each side of the OLED glasses, which have seen a slight boost in resolution since we last heard about them, jumping from VGA to 870 x 500 pixels in each OLED panel. Tracking was responsive and accurate -- the experience of walking around a room felt almost lifelike. What's even more exciting than the device's performance is that we may finally see these hit stores in 2012, with a tentative summer ship date. And, while still a pricey addition to your display collection, the Cinemizer lands on the inexpensive end of the Zeiss product scale, ringing up at €649 (about $850), plus another €100 for the tracking hardware. Jump past the break to see it in action.%Gallery-149741%
Nokia pulls back the curtain on Carl Zeiss division, gives off that pro lens smell
Still not sure how the 808 PureView can best other pro camera rigs? Then take a trip over to Nokia's Conversations blog for an inside look at the obsessive scientists behind the Carl Zeiss Camera Lens Division. These are the men and women responsible for the module included in Espoo's 41-megapixel wonder and, of course, the Lumia line. So, what's the magic that makes these phones waft a "certain [professional] smell?" Why, that'd be their use of extremely aspherical, molded plastic lenses; a manufacturing process that creates sensors which lie closer to the surface and a dimple that allows for better refraction of light. The only downside to this high-end optical whizzery is the size required, so fans of anorexic handsets with exceptional imaging will just have to get used to those unsightly rear humps. Be sure to check out the source below for the full synesthetic quote and a more detailed glance at the world of mobile optics.
Sony Alpha NEX-7 emerges from the waters, ready for action
Sony leapt onto the stage to perfect its tap-dancing routine tell the world that the NEX-7, after being beset with flooding-based delays, will take a bow at the end of February. The company's flagship mirrorless ILC will set you back $1,350 for the kit edition with an 18-55mm lens. If you've got a little (weeny bit) more cash, a further £839 ($1,300) will place a compatible Carl Zeiss-branded 24mm F.1.8 lens in your grubby hands. If you're interested in learning what we thought about it, check out our detailed hands-on here.
Ideum's MT65 Presenter: a $17,500, 65-inch, multi-touch display for your own museum
Ideum's 65-inch MT65 Presenter is a multi-touch 3D display designed for public spaces, so large that Surface 2.0's looking a bit sheepish right now. The aforementioned tempered-glass mega-screen has a sensor that'll identify 32 individual points of touch (to think: we thought five-and-ten finger touch was impressive) and a PC with a 2.2GHz Core i7 CPU, 256GB SSD and GeForce GTX 460 nestled inside the four-inch "vandal proof" aluminum frame. There's also a Carl Zeiss-lensed HD webcam with a stereo microphone for those moments when you want to see your beloved's face in eye-popping detail. Today's release of the unit is running Windows 7, but the company has announced that in March you'll also be able to get Linux editions of this and its MT55 Platform unit too. The $17,500 you'll spend also gets you access to the GestureWorks SDK for rolling-your-own tactile apps: museum curators with some budget to blow should head on past the break to read the PR before working out how to justify having one in your office to your boss.
Nokia N8 used to shoot world's largest stop-motion film, 'Gulps' up the competition (video)
In today's rapidly evolving smartphone market, the Nokia N8 seems almost... ancient. But if there's any doubts that its camera is still the gold-medal champion of the bunch, "Gulp" will shut up the critics. The video you see below is the world's largest stop-motion movie, filmed on a beach in South Wales using none other than the phone's famed 12 megapixel sensor. Okay, that's not entirely true; it was actually done on three of them, not just one, with the aid of a massively tall crane to lift them up. Everything you see in the flick -- including the fisherman and his boat -- is life-size; the largest scene spans over 11,000 square feet. The Sumo Science production, in all of its 90-second glory, is ready for your viewing pleasure below, as is a short documentary explaining how it all went down. For sure, you're either going to lust after a N8 once again, or vow never to go fishing again.
Nokia claims N9 is 'the fastest image-capturing phone' yet
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?
Mr. Blurrycam outs Sony Ericsson's future Android-powered Cyber-shot?
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]
Sony releases specifications for E-mount lenses, desperately wants you to build some
Some interchangeable lens standards have been around for ages. Others, however, are rather more modern contrivances, and Sony's E-mount definitely falls in that latter category. We've seen it hit HD camcorders as well as the NEX-3 and NEX-5 compacts, but so far the greatest selections of lenses we've yet seen has come courtesy of a simple adapter. Sony wants that to change, releasing the "basic" specifications for its E-mount interchangeable lens system and doing so for free, a move that lens makers like Carl Zeiss and Sigma have all lauded -- though none went so far as to say they'd actually start making this particular flavor of glass. Oh, and the specs for the NEX-5 Lego viewfinder? Still totally free.