For 2012, Sony announced five models to their new H-Series high-zoom Cyber-shot camera line-up, two of which include the DSC-HX30V (with Wi-Fi) and DSC-HX20V (without Wi-Fi). Each feature a new, ultra-thin 20x optical lens, which enhances zoom capabilities while still maintaining a small, compact body. Additionally, the HX30V will feature Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing for seamless transfer of photos to compatible smartphones, tablets or televisions and sharing via popular social networking services.
The new 20x zoom “AA” (advanced aspherical) lens element in the HX30V and HX20V models produces outstanding results with a design drastically smaller than comparable 20x lenses in previous models. The thinly-designed lens, which requires highly sophisticated glass molding to create, allows the camera chasses to remain as compact as possible. In addition to its strong zoom capabilities, the new “AA” lens can focus at a minimum distance of approximately 1 cm for stunning, clear macro shots. 
The DSC-HX30V camera's Wi-Fi capabilities allow it to link directly and transfer content to a variety of compatible devices including smartphones, tablets and televisions. Using the new PlayMemories Mobile application from Sony, images can then be shared easily from the host device on Facebook, YouTube and other popular sharing sites. The Play Memories app is currently available for free download on both the iTunes app store and Android Market.
Both cameras use the new Sony 18.2 MP “Exmor R” CMOS sensor, the highest resolution sensor currently offered in the mainstream “point and shoot” market. The new sensor teams with an advanced BIONZ processor to deliver blazing fast AutoFocus speeds of approximately 0.13 seconds in daylight and 0.21 seconds in low-light shooting situations (in case of fastest model, measured at 3 EV).
Additionally, the new cameras feature “Clear Image Zoom” digital zoom technology, which boosts optical zoom to 2x virtual capabilities (i.e. 20x optical to 40x “Clear Image Zoom”) while maintaining full resolution.
The HX30V and HX20V cameras each provide 20x optical zoom (40x “Clear Image Zoom”) with “Optical Steady Shot” to reduce any blurring caused by camera shake during shooting — even with the zoom extended, as well as some creative photographic settings.
Product Specs, Pricing and Availability
| DSC-HX30V | DSC-HX20V | |
| MSRP | $420 | $400 |
| Available | May 2012 | May 2012 |
| Colors | Black | Black |
| Sensor | 18.2 MP “Exmor R” CMOS | 18.2 MP “Exmor R” CMOS |
| Optical Zoom | 20x optical zoom lens (25-500mm in 35mm format) | 20x optical zoom lens (25-500mm in 35mm format) |
| Digital Zoom | 40x digital “Clear Image Zoom” at full resolution | 40x digital “Clear Image Zoom” at full resolution |
| Wi-Fi | Yes | No |
| GPS | Yes | Yes |
| Display | 3.0-inch, 921k dot LCD screen | 3.0-inch, 921k dot LCD screen |
| Auto Focus | ~0.13 second in daylight, ~0.21 seconds in low-light at 3 EV | ~0.13 second in daylight, ~0.21 seconds in low-light at 3 EV |
| Dual-Record | Captures 13MP equivalent still images while shooting video | Captures 13MP equivalent still images while shooting video |
| Full HD Movie Shooting | 1920×1080/60p | 1920×1080/60p |
| Optical SteadyShot Active Mode | 3 way shake canceling | 3 way shake canceling |
| Photo Creativity | 9 “Picture Effect” options | 9 “Picture Effect” options |
