Sony has announced the impending release of two new slimline Cyber-shot digicams, the WX1 and TX1, along with a new accessory dock that automates picture-taking at social events.

 

August 6, 2009: Sony has announced the impending release of two new slimline Cyber-shot digicams, the WX1 and TX1, along with a new accessory dock that automates picture-taking at social events.
Designed for snapshooters who want pocketable cameras that are smart-looking and easy to use, both models are equipped with a new Exmor R CMOS Sensor that has an effective resolution of 10.2 megapixels plus a BIONZ image processor. The new sensor is approximately twice as sensitive as conventional CMOS sensors and features Sony’s backlit illumination technology. This enables the image sensor to utilise incident light more efficiently, delivering clear photos with 50% less noise, even when shooting in low-light situations.
Both models feature the Sweep Panorama mode that was introduced with the Cyber-shot HX1. They also include the same Hand-held Twilight and Anti Motion Blur modes plus Optical SteadyShot image stabilisation. Both cameras can record detail-packed 720p HD movie clips and audio at a smooth 30 frames per second.
The WX1 is the flagship model in the W-series of Cyber-shots and features a premium Sony-engineered G Lens with 5x optical zoom range plus a maximum aperture of f/2.4, that ensures better performance for low-light shots. It will be manufactured in silver. gold and black colours. The Cyber-shot TX1 is being produced in five colours: blue, gold, silver, pink and white. Just 14.1mm thin, it has a 3-inch Clear Photo LCD Plus touchscreen plus a Carl Zeiss 4x optical zoom lens.

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Front and rear views of the new Sony Cyber-shot WX1. (Source: Sony.)

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Front and rear views of the new Sony Cyber-shot TX1. (Source: Sony.)
Both models are compatible with the new optional accessory, the IPT-DS1 Party-shot camera controller, which can take photographs automatically in ‘Party-Shot’ mode. Just slip the Cyber-shot TX1 or WX1 into the docking base and everything else is automatic. Using information from the scene detected, it will pan, tilt and zoom to capture shots of people that include optimal compositions and smiles without requiring the camera owner to constantly remember to stop and take photos.
The DSC-WX1 is due for local release in September at an RRP of $599. Also scheduled for release in September is the IP IPT-DS1 Party-Shot dock, which has an RRP of $229. The DSC-TX1 will be released in October at an RRP of $649. For more information, visit www.sony.com.au.