New Sony NEX-5R Camera Delivers Professional Imaging Power and Wi-Fi Convenience in Lightweight, Stylish Package
TORONTO, August 29, 2012 – Combining a stylish, lightweight design and the freedom of interchangeable lenses with large-sensor image quality, speedy AF and the introduction of Wi-Fi capability, the new Sony α NEX-5R compact system camera offers all the benefits of DSLR-style imaging in a more convenient, portable package with added connectivity.
The NEX-5R camera features a newly-developed 16.1 effective megapixel Exmor™ APS HD CMOS sensor - identical in size to sensors found in traditional DSLR cameras - combined with a powerful BIONZ processor to assure richly detailed still images and crisp Full HD videos in all types of lighting conditions.
In a first for Sony’s line of interchangeable lens cameras, the new NEX-5R model features “Fast Hybrid AF” autofocus technology, combining phase-detection and contrast-detection methods to ensure speedy, accurate autofocus in any shooting situation. It is also Sony’s first interchangeable lens camera with integrated Wi-Fi capabilities for easy image sharing, saving and viewing, and introduces the new concept of downloadable “Camera Apps” for adding creative, fun features that can be personalized to fit a photographer’s needs.
“With the NEX-5R camera, Sony brings the core strength of our consumer electronics business into play to fully support our digital imaging business. This unique combination of technology and style results in a compelling new product that strikes the ultimate balance between size and performance,” said Masayuki Yao, director of “α” interchangeable lens cameras at SonyCanada. “With a host of exciting, innovative new features and the same outstanding image and HD video quality that our E-mount line has become known for, the NEX-5R is an ideal choice for step-up point-and-shoot users or more serious photo enthusiasts who don’t want to compromise on image quality and connectivity while traveling light.”
Fast Hybrid AF
The intuitive new “Fast Hybrid AF” autofocus technology utilizes 99 phase-detection AF points arrayed on the image sensor to detect a subject’s distance and quickly lock focus on it, and then utilizes contrast-detection AF to confirm extremely fine, precise details. In Speed Priority Continuous shooting mode, the camera will switch automatically to phase detection tracking AF and can track fast-moving action accurately in each frame up to 10 frames per second.
Wi-Fi Sharing and New Camera Apps
The added connectivity of the NEX-5R camera allows photos and videos to be transferred wirelessly to a smartphone or tablet running Sony’s free PlayMemories Mobile app, available on both Android™ and Apple IOS™ app platforms. Additionally, content can be directly uploaded from the camera to Facebook™ using a Wi-Fi connection and the new “Direct Upload” application, part of Sony’s new PlayMemories Camera Apps platform.
This new concept of PlayMemories Camera Apps is the world’s first application download service in an interchangeable lens camera that allows consumers to install new functions on demand, tailoring their cameras to fit their personal shooting needs. The service can be accessed over Wi-Fi or when the camera is connected directly to a PC via USB.
Available apps at launch, outside of “Direct Upload” as mentioned earlier, will include “Picture Effect+”; “Bracket Pro”; “Multi Frame NR”; “Photo Retouch”; and “Smart Remote Control. A variety of other apps including “Time-Lapse” and “Cinematic Photo” are also planned for release.
Shooters can also utilize the family of PlayMemories services to transfer content directly to a networked PC, streamlining the image back-up process and avoiding the need to connect cables or transfer memory cards between devices. Additionally, they can transfer photos to any DLNA-compatible TV either through a wireless access point or any TV supporting Wi-Fi.
Added Flexibility and Functionality
Aesthetically, the new NEX-5R features a new fully programmable control dial and function button, a versatile combination for photographers accustomed to the flexibility and direct control of a DSLR camera. It also has a switchable on-screen digital level gauge that helps keep horizons level with landscapes and architectural shots.
Additionally, the new α NEX-5R model features an intuitive touch-screen LCD with a Touch Shutter function for added convenience. The clear, bright touchscreen can also flip upwards 180 degrees for easy arm’s length self-portraits or framing and filming self-video.
Full HD (1920x1080@60p) movie shooting is enhanced with a new Auto Slow Shutter feature, adding extra detail to low-light clips. The camera detects dim interiors and night scenes, automatically switching to a slower shutter speed to brighten footage.
On the α accessories front, the stylish new LCS-ELC5 soft carrying case is designed exclusively to protect both the camera and lens of the α NEX-5R model. Additionally, there will be a new Screen Protect Semi-Hard sheet (model PCK-LM13) offered as well as new slim-style soft carrying case (model LCS-SL10) with space to store a variety of cameras and lenses as well as tablet or small laptop computer.
Pricing and Availability
The NEX-5R compact system camera will be available this October in both silver and black for about $750 with an 18-55mm kit zoom lens as well as body-only for about $650.
The new camera and a variety of compatible accessories will be available at Sony retail stores http://store.sony.ca/nex5r and other authorized dealers nationwide.
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Notes to Editors:
* The “Fast Hybrid AF” feature will be supported at first with the following E-mount lenses: E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS (model SEL1855); E 55-210mm F4-6.3 OSS (model SEL55210); E 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS (model SEL18200LE); E 24mm F1.8ZA Sonnar T* (model SEL24F18Z). Firmware upgrades will steadily expand the range of lenses offering Fast Hybrid AF support.
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