Sony Cyber-shot HX1 Due Next Month

March 17, 2009: Sony’s 9.1-megapixel Cyber-shot DSC-HX1 is scheduled for release in Australia from April 2009 at an RRP of $1099.
The first Cyber-shot to feature Exmor CMOS sensor technology, the HX1 is also the first to support continuous high-speed shooting of up to 10 frames per second at full 9.1-megapixel resolution. It also features a new G lens with 20x optical zoom, which covers focal lengths equivalent to 28-560mm at maximum apertures from f/2.8 to f/5.2. Developed originally for Sony’s Alpha DSLRs, the G Lens in the HX1 teams aspherical and ED (extra-low dispersion) elements. Optical Steady Shot stabilisation is provided.

Front view of the Cyber-shot DSC-HX1.

Rear view of the Cyber-shot DSC-HX1.
Measuring 5.92 x 4.57 mm, the sensor uses technology developed for the Sony Alpha digital SLR program to produces image with reduced noise at high ISO settings. Coupled with the sensor is Sony’s BIONZ image processor, which introduces several new shooting modes. For static subjects, the Handheld Twilight mode grabs a high-speed burst of six frames, combining them to create a single optimised image with dramatically reduced noise levels. For moving subjects, the Anti Motion Blur mode also superimposes six frames to produce one composite image with reduced subject blur.

The Sweep Panorama mode provides in-camera stitching of a panned sequence of shots.
A special ‘Sweep Panorama’ mode enables users to capture a panned sequence of shots, which will be stitched together automatically in the camera to create an extra-wide, high resolution image. Panoramas can be viewed as a scrolling preview on the camera’s 3-inch tilting Clear Photo, 230,000 dot LCD screen or new S-Frame digital photo frames or previewed on a PlayStation3. The HX1’s jog dial simplifies ‘click and rotate’ selection and adjustment of camera settings. A new selected-face memory function enables the camera to register one selected face and adjusts focus, exposure, flash and white balance accordingly. The camera remembers the face every time that face shows up in the frame.
An Intelligent Auto Mode combines Intelligent Scene Recognition (iSCN), Optical SteadyShot and Face Detection technologies. For extra convenience, there’s also a Digital SLR-style Custom button that can be assigned to Smile Shutter, White Balance adjust or metering mode select functions. The Cyber-shot HX1 is also the first compact camera from Sony capable of shooting 1080/30p HD movies at 30 frames/second. HD movies and still photos can be viewed on Sony’s Bravia TV sets or any HD Ready television (optional cable required).
The Cyber-shot digital camera range is available through consumer electronics retailers nationally, from Sony Centre stores in major capital cities and online. For details, phone SonyAustralia on 1300 720 071 or visit www.sony.com.au.