Sony Unveils NEX-3N CSC and Trio of Cyber-shot Point & Shoots

Compact NEX-3N Features 16.1MP APS-C Sensor, Fingertip Zoom Control, Auto Object Framing

February 2013

Photos

Get the Flash Player to see this rotator.

San Diego, CA—Sony’s Alpha NEX-3N compact system camera is engineered to deliver pro-quality photos and Full HD video in an ultracompact body weighing in at under 7.5 ounces, and Sony claims it is “the world’s smallest and lightest interchangeable-lens camera with an APS-C size sensor.” Three enhanced Cyber-shot point-and-shoots models were also announced.

The NEX-3N will be offered as a kit with the compact SELP1650 motorized zoom lens. The camera itself features a newly added zoom lever on top to provide smooth fingertip control of lens focal length. The lever can also adjust digital zoom on the camera if a powered zoom lens is not being used.

Its 16.1 megapixel APS HD CMOS sensor is identical in size to those found in traditional DSLRs. Its large surface area takes in more light during image capture, aiding in producing low-noise photographs with blurred backgrounds and detailed Full HD videos (60i/24p)—and providing a maximum sensitivity of ISO 16,000 for low-light performance. And, the camera’s Bionz processor, which utilizes the same area-specific noise reduction technology on Sony’s full-frame 99 DSLR, individually adjusts level of noise reduction and sharpness in different imaging areas, helping to assure low-noise handheld shots in all types of lighting situations without loss of detail.

“The new NEX-3N is the ideal camera to introduce consumers to the creative world of interchangeable-lens photography, offering new levels of performance and convenience never before realized in a mirrorless model,” said Mike Kahn, director of the Alpha business at Sony. “By pairing the camera with our retractable SELP1650 lens, loading it up with a host of our newest, most advanced technologies and offering it at a great price point, we’ve created a palm-sized powerhouse that promises outstanding value for our customers.”

New here is Auto Object Framing technology, which enables shooters to create framed photos with each composition. It identifies the main object of the framed scene—whether it’s one person, two people or macro and moving subjects—and automatically trims the scene around the object to create a professionally styled composition. The cropped photo is boosted to full resolution using Sony’s By Pixel Super Resolution technology, and both the original and cropped image files are saved.

Other NEX-3N features include: a 3.0-inch LCD screen that flips 180º; an easy-to-hold textured grip; and it is the first Sony E-mount interchangeable-lens camera to support “TriLuminos Color,” which was developed to enable consumers to experience an expanded palette of ultrarealistic colors when videos and photos are played back on a Bravia TV.