cyber-shot
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Sony Ericsson's K850 successor in the wild?
A Chinese site has scored pictures of what is claimed to be the successor to the recently-released K850, in turn the successor to the lauded K800 "Wilma" that ushered in Sony's "Cyber-shot" camera branding to the world of handsets. Actually, all they really managed to score was the device's shell, which reveals a couple interesting tidbits: it'll maintain the K850's bizarre square keys, and it alleges to sport a 3x optical zoom. With that kind of lens power, it's pretty much a foregone conclusion that there'll be a 5 megapixel sensor lurking under that protective cover (if not greater), making Sony Ericsson's next round of product announcements a potential boon for shutterbugs. Stay tuned.[Via Gearfuse]
Sony's DSC-T200 ultracompact going big with 3.5-inch LCD, 5x zoom
So it looks like Sony is about to break us off with a very nicely spec'ed little waif of a camera, the 8 megapixel Cyber-shot DSC-T200 (pictured left). Oddly enough, SonyStyle Canada has all the juicy details about this unannounced, significant upgrade to the DSC-T100 -- and its little brother, the DSC-T70 (pictured right) -- posted up for the world to see before a single press released has passed our desks; we're talking 3.5-inch touchscreen, 5x optical zoom (3-inch / 3x on the T70), claimed 3200 max ISO, VGA video at 30fps, automatic face detection, and even optical image stabilization, all in sub-160-gram packages. No wireless radios onboard, unfortunately, but you are getting the ability to dock with Sony's optional CSS-HD1 Cyber-shot Station for TV, allowing images to be viewed in their full glory on high definition sets. Despite the mounds of info and images displayed on these microsites -- along with overseas enthusiast site e-Photographia -- there are still no pricing / release details to be found, so we'll keep our eyes open. You can check out the T200, lens cover down, after the break...[Thanks yik, images courtesy of e-Photographia]Read - DSC-T200Read - DSC-T70
Sony Ericsson's "Victoria" gets official as the Cyber-shot K770
She's here and right on schedule. Meet Victoria, Sony Ericsson's latest candybar to wear the Cyber-shot crown. Officially unveiled as the K770, the 14-mm thin cameraphone features a 3.2 megapixel, autofocus camera with LED photo light, and 1.9-inch QVGA display just like we heard. It ships with a 256MB M2 card and goes tri-band GSM with 2100MHz UMTS 3G for Europe. She's expected sometime around Q4 for an undisclosed price.%Gallery-5872%
New Sony Ericsson handsets looming?
We aren't insinuating that you should attach any level of truth to these rumors just yet, but the boards of Esato are alive with murmurs of a few new SE handsets that could be launched as early as tomorrow. Amongst the mobiles that we could hear more about (officially) in the coming day is the Cyber-shot-branded "Victoria" -- which will supposedly be 14-millimeters thick and sport a 1.9-inch QVGA screen, five color options, and a 128MB M2 card bundled in -- and the still elusive "Veronica." Additionally, we could also be treated to the W350, a Cyber-shot clamshell / Cyber-shot slider, and new "accessories" to boot. Best of all, though, is that you've just a single day left to find out if there's actually any substance to these whispers, but if it does prove true, it certainly won't be the first time.[Via PocketPicks]
Sony offers repair on 416,000 Cyber-shot cameras
Sony announced plans today to offer repairs on the casings of 416,000 Cyber-shot DSC-T5 digital cameras the company has sold, as the bottom plating can warp and create a sharp edge which can cut or scratch user's hands. The repairs will affect 66,000 of the cameras sold in Japan, and another 350,000 which have been sold in the US, Europe, and China. A Sony spokesperson says about 30 customers in Japan and several others overseas reported "finding" the defect, which probably means a trip to the ER after trying to take a family photo. The company suggests checking model and serial numbers to see if your camera is affected -- we suggest leather gloves.
Sony's DCS-H9 15x megazoom digicam reviewed
If you (or your wallet) aren't quite ready to succumb to the DSLR urge just yet, but yearn for a solid megazoom to bridge the gap between your pocket-friendly P&S and that future money pit you're sure to eventually end up with, Sony's DSC-H9 offers an enticing list of options including a 15x optically stabilized zoom lens. Reviewers over at Megapixel were quite pleased with the "comprehensive bundle" that Sony includes in the package, and while the svelte three-inch flip-up LCD monitor, ridiculously long zoom, and "good image quality for printing past the widest angle" were praised, there seemed to be a negative vibe about the whole shebang. Among the lengthy list of digs were complaints that the compression was too strong, noticeable barrel distortion, purple fringing, and pincushion effects marred image quality, and a "convoluted menu system" kept operators on the verge of frustration. As if those weren't damaging enough, the battery was said to drain faster than other Sony digicams, and the plastic enclosure was dubbed "too slippery" for their preferences. Of course, it's not unusual to see these megazooms suffer in one area or another while still offering incredible closeups for a relatively low price, but we'd recommend perusing the read link for yourself before pulling the trigger on the H9.[Via PhotographyBlog]
Sony's feature-packed Cyber-shot DSC-G1 reviewed
One might wonder if Sony packed a little too much into the relatively compact DSC-G1, but as we'd already seen, even the CNET review crew didn't really think so. The only noticeable digs were the slightly larger-than-usual frame and additional weight added on, and unfortunately, the "slow-going" WiFi wizardry. To its credit, the WiFi features did seem to elicit quite a bit of smiles once the initial kinks were worked out, and while they weren't crazy about the "narrow, slow zoom lens" per se, the image quality seemed on par. Additionally, the digicam's 3.5-inch LCD monitor was dubbed "a television" in an of itself thanks to the impressive resolution, and the 2GB of internal memory along with an additional Memory Stick expansion slot was also highly regarded. Another seemingly minor thumbs-up was given to this unit's ability to accept "drag-and-drop" music file transfers to play back on the built-in media player, which is a much appreciated departure from previous cams that forced users to rely on Sony's SonicStage software. Still, $600 isn't chump change for a pocket-based camera, so be sure and read up on the full skinny before throwing down on the (admittedly flashy) G1.[Thanks, Antipathy]
Sony's Cyber-shot DSC-S800 point-and-shoot sports 6x optical zoom
While it may be getting tougher to not only smuggle a decent digicam into a decent concert, but to get even remotely close to the action, it's good to see a few camera manufacturers cranking up the optical zooming abilities of their point-and-shoots. Sony's latest Cyber-shot DSC-S800 proudly joins the currently-lacking clan, and features an 8.1-megapixel Super HAD CCD, ISO rating up to 1250, metallic frame (backside snapped after the break), 2.5-inch LCD monitor, Direct Playback mode, 54MB of internal memory, MSPro / MSDuo compatibility, and the reported ability to handle 390 shots before calling it quits. Moreover, users can enjoy the two-centimeter macro mode, 16:9 playback, PictBridge support, and variety of on-screen language choices, but the Motion JPEG video mode isn't apt to cause any gleeful celebrations. Of course, any Americans who were already working their credit card out of the wallet can stop right there, as this sucka won't be available until May at the earliest, and only to Europeans (at least initially) at that.[Via RegHardware]
Could this be Sony Ericsson's "Sophia"?
Yay ... more über-blurry goodness from some cameraphone wielding person out in the world. While we always enjoy a peek into the future of mobile devices -- it pains us that said pics are always out of focus and taken in dark rooms; aren't spy-types supposed to be hooked up with cool James Bond-like gadgets? Sophia is touted as having a 5 MP camera, HSDPA, and maybe even WiFi. Of course all of this is pure speculation - we may learn more between now and CeBIT -- or not. We will leave it all up to your imagination at this point, though all signs seem to point to a very strong not likely. As per usual, if you have a believable better pic, please send it in. [Via Mobilewhack]
Sony Ericsson K550, the baby Cyber-shot reviewed
The friends at GSM Arena has slapped up a very nice review of the baby Cyber-shot – the K550. This relatively small, 14 mm thick quad-band GSM / GPRS / EDGE device (850, 900, 1800, 1900), packs most of the goodies that we have come to expect from the Sony Ericsson team. Included is a 2 megapixel camera, Bluetooth for handsfree goodness, M2 slot to augment the system memory -- a 512 MB card is included, and even an RDS-enabled FM radio. What this handset does lack, however, is 850 MHz support, and sadly this is a bit of a bust for the NA market. Considering this is a low to mid range device, it has to have some shortcomings; including a lower-than-we-would-like-it resolution screen, the keys appear as if a heavy text messaging session might make your fingertips bleed, and the word is the camera quality is sub-par for a Cyber-shot branded phone. On the plus side, if the price is right, the great feature set will likely outweigh the negatives mentioned above. It does seem Sony Ericsson is starting to suffer from 'Nokia-itis': new handsets galore – but we are beginning to see a fair bit of rehash. Edit: As astude reader johnnie points out - this device supports 850 MHz which of course makes it a quad band device.
Sony Ericsson's SO903iTV Bravia mobile gets real
Don't you love it when the rumor mill actually produces some realizable results? While just about everyone had their doubts about the so-called "Bravia phone" that was supposedly coming down the pike, it looks like Sony, er, Sony Ericsson's SO903iTV will be the first handset to get the proper Bravia treatment. Aside from sporting a stylish red shell, landscape orientation, 3-inch widescreen display, and about every Sony-owned logo you can imagine, this mobile also gets a built-in TV tuner with "time-shift video recording." You'll also find a two-megapixel CMOS camera and a microSD card for loading up your media, but unfortunately for most of the world, we'll never get to touch it. Currently, the phone is set to launch solely on Japan's NTT DoCoMo, but given enough time, Sony might warm up to other markets in the future. Click on through for another shot.
Sony announces new Cyber-shots: DSC-W35, DSC-W55, DSC-S650, and DSC-S700
The buying season may be over, but that hasn't stopped Sony from pushing out four new slightly lower-end Cyber-shots. (Well, lower-end for them, these things ain't too shabby.) The DSC-W35, DSC-W55 upgrade the W30 and W50 with 7.2 megapixel sensors and support up to 8GB Memory Stick PRO Duos; the W55 still has a 2.5-inch display (and comes in blue, pink, black, or silver) and the W35 still has a 2-incher (and comes in silver); both use Li-ion batteries. The DSC-S650 and DSC-S700 both feature 7.2 megapixel sensors, with a 2.4-inch on the S700 and a 2-inch on the S650, both with support for up to 4GB Memory Stick PRO Duos, and use AA cells. All will range between $150-$200 when launched in March.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S650 and S700 get the FCC go-ahead
Do not confuse the Sony Cyber-shot S700 with the Sony Ericsson S700i cameraphone, the Sony Network Walkman S700, Sharp S700 carabiner player, or even Samsung's S700 digital camera, and to a lesser extent, Canon's SD700 -- this thing is different. Different we say! Actually, it's just Sony's latest digital camera, a 7 megapixel number that that uses AA batteries, and has a 2.4-inch 480 x 240 resolution display, or a 2.0-inch display on the slightly lower end S650. We're still a little confused as to why they were in the FCC; as far as we can tell they have no WiFi or Bluetooth, but hey, so it goes. Coming soon to a very confused electronics retailer near you.
Sony Ericsson "Li" is the K770i?
Well, looky here, if it's not Sony Ericsson's mysterious new Cyber-shot phone we first saw a couple months back! It turns out that the candybar (in a decidedly more pale shade than the last time around) is allegedly the K770i, codename "Li." With a 2 megapixel autofocus shooter, Memory Stick Micro M2 slot, and lowly EDGE data, we suspect there aren't many folks getting all worked up over this one's release, but hey -- choice is good, right?
Sony recalls eight Cyber-shot models
I hereby declare Sony to have had the worst 2006 year of any company. As if major PS3 shortages and being blamed for everyone's exploding batteries aren't enough, they now have to recall eight different models of Cyber-shot cameras that were sold between September 2003 and January 2005. The BBC is reporting that the glitch involves a problem with the image sensor which could cause the screen to improperly display images. No word on the total number of cameras being recalled, but Sony said they'll only repair cameras which are exhibiting the problem; in other words - you can't just send your camera off in hopes of receiving a shiny new one. The affected models are: DSC-F88, DSC-M1, DSC-T1, DSC-T11, DSC-T3, DSC-T33, DSC-U40 and DSC-U50.I can't find many more details on how to determine if your camera is affected or how to participate in the recall process, but this Sony support page might be a good place to start.[via Engadget]
Sony to recall eight defective Cyber-shot models
If there's any company that's anxious for this year to end, it must be Sony. After being faced with PS3 shortages (and subsequent insanity) not to mention that whole exploding batteries thing, we've just woken up on Black Friday to the news that Sony will be recalling eight Cyber-shot models due to a defect in their LCDs. Sony apparently says that the problem, found in an unknown number of cameras sold worldwide between September 2003 and January 2005, is "caused by a glitch with the image sensor." But don't think that you'll automatically be getting a new shooter: Sony'll only be repairing models DSC-F88, DSC-M1 (pictured), DSC-T1, DSC-T11, DSC-T3, DSC-T33, DSC-U40 and DSC-U50, which show signs of the problem.[Thanks, Drew]
Sony's 10 megapixel Cyber-shot DSC-N2 reviewed
The folks over at Imaging Resource got their hands on Sony's latest and greatest Cyber-shot, the DSC-N2, and seem to like what they see. The 10 megapixel camera is all about its prominent 3-inch touchscreen, and we suppose it's one of those love it or hate it affairs, but the IR folks sure seem to fall into the former category. One of the niftiest features afforded by the touchscreen, which can be operated with your finger or an included stylus, is a "Spot AF" mode that allows you to point exactly where you'd like to focus, perfect for zeroing in on an off-center subject. They also found most other controls quite intuitive, though they've got some minor quibbles with the playback mode. Otherwise, the camera seems like a great performer, with a relatively strong flash, good low-light shots, and responsive performance. That fancy ISO 1,600 might come in handy, but you'll want to stick at around ISO 200 or below to keep your images relatively noise-free. Other than a few other minor imaging qualms, the camera really looks like a great option for the consumer in search of many megapixels and some interesting functionality, and while the $450 pricetag doesn't make it exactly a steal, it's not too bad for what you're getting.[Via Digital Photography Blog]
Sony Ericsson K790a "Wilma" sees FCC approval
It comes as no surprise to see that Sony Ericsson was looking for a little FCC love for the K790a variant of their "Wilma" Cyber-shot branded phone, sporting 3.2 megapixels of picture-takin' happiness behind its sliding rear cover. With support for GSM 850, 1800, and 1900, this is a phone T-Mobile and Cingular users can really sink their teeth into -- and given SE's strategy of selling direct off its website, we can all cross our fingers that this thing might be showing up in American hands before too long now that the ceremonial FCC blessing ritual has taken place.
Sony launches Cyber-shot DSC-T10
Ah, our true unabashed, unabating Sony-guilty-pleasure: their so sexy Cyber-shot line's got another notch on the bedpost called the DSC-T10, a not-too-distant T30 ultracompact cousin with a seven megapixel sensor, 3x optical zoom, ISO 1000 setting, 2.5-inch display, and 56MB of internal memory (should you run out, or if you're anything like us, forget your memory card in your media reader). They're claiming 250 shots per charge on their NiMH cell, and it's all yours to start shooting with for four Benjamins some time this month when it hits store shelves.
Sony's T30 7.2 megapixel ultracompact
Looks like Sony (Ericsson) decided to forgo the CTIA announcements this week and go straight for the digital cameras: their new 7.2 megapixel T30 ultracompact has a 3-inch display (though not touchscreen, like their N1, which also has a 3-inch screen), added ISO 800 / 1000 levels for lower light / higher noise shots (which, paired with their Steady Shot OIS is now called Super Steady Shot), 3x optical, 58MB internal memory, a 420 shot (CIPA-rated) battery, and an expected $500 price tag for May release. As usual, our bone to pick with Sony making extremely desirable devices that use Memory Stick applies, but if you're one of the 16% willing to look past all that, this looks like a very promising little camera.[Via DC Review]
