Sony announced the ultra-slim, 16.2 megapixel DSC-TX55 Cyber-shot digital camera that records Full HD AVCHD video, shoots 3D images and offers 5x optical (10x virtual) zoom. At just 12.2mm slim (measurement excludes lens cover), Sony claims the TX55 is the world’s thinnest camera in its class (among cameras with an optical anti-shake function). It is also the first Cyber-shot camera to offer a “Picture Effect” mode, which expands a shooter’s artistic possibilities without the need for editing software.
The TX55 boasts a 16.2 megapixel, highly sensitive Exmor R CMOS sensor that Sony claims delivers incredible image detail and ultra-low picture noise in both still images and Full HD video — even in low light conditions. The camera’s hi-speed auto focus can lock onto subject in as little as 0.1 seconds, letting users grab the most fleeting photo moments with ease.
The TX55 offers Clear Image Zoom that boosts magnification without lowering the pixel count in the final image. Exclusive to Sony, By Pixel Super Resolution processing extends the camera’s 5x optical zoom range, allowing full-resolution 16.2 megapixel images with a maximum 10x zoom. Plus the technology can significantly boosts still image quality during movie recording. At a touch of the shutter button, ‘Dual Rec’ grabs detail-packed 12 megapixel-level still photos without interrupting Full HD video shooting.
The innovative Picture Effect mode broadens the range of artistic options with an exciting palette of in-camera image treatments. Effects can be viewed on the camera screen, allowing users to see the result of a chosen effect instantly rather than during the post-shooting experience. The full list of seven Picture Effect options includes HDR Painting, Rich-tone Monochrome, Miniature, Toy Camera, Partial Color, Pop Color and Soft High-key.
Newly enhanced with additional electronic image stabilization for vertical and horizontal handshake correction, SteadyShot image stabilization with Active Mode compensates for handheld camera movements during Full HD video shooting. Users can enjoy crisp, blur-free movie clips at all zoom settings, even when holding the camera while walking.
The TX55 back panel is just a a 3.3-inch (8.3cm) Xtra Fine OLED wide touchscreen.
Features
- Superior Auto mode recognizes a wide range of shooting situations, adjusting exposure and other settings for high-quality images with low noise and high dynamic range.
- Intelligent Sweep Panorama mode also features HR (High Resolution) mode, letting users capture breath-taking up to 42.9 megapixel panoramas. Just sweep the camera, then enjoy the results on a connected HDTV, or zoom in using a PlayStation 3 system to reveal the finest details.
- 3D Still Image captures dramatic 3D photos without the need for a large, bulky stereoscopic lens. With a single shutter press, the camera takes two shots consecutively, using the first image to estimate depth information to create a dramatic three-dimensional still image. Other 3D shooting options include 3D Sweep Panorama mode and Sweep Multi Angle.
Enabling its incredible slimness, the new TX55 camera includes a slot to accept Memory Stick Micro (Mark2) and MicroSD/SDHC flash memory cards. Sony offers a choice of ultra-compact, high quality media in capacities up to 16GB, with Memory Stick Micro being enhanced to achieve data transfer speed of up to 15MB/s (fastest among micro memory cards) by carrying the same high performance HX Engine controller used on Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo to fully support the new cameras’ features such as 3D and full HD video shooting.
All cards come with free PC software (available via download), File Rescue for quick, easy recovery of deleted or damaged photos and files, and x-Pict Story that simplifies creation of dazzling slideshows.
Pricing and Availability
The new Sony Cyber-shot TX55 digital camera will be available September 2011 for $350. See more Sony camera news or the latest digital camera news.
