Sony Cyber-shot QX10 Hands-On Preview

Based on the Sony Cyber-shot WX200, the small Smart Lens unit features an 18.2 megapixel backlit CMOS sensor, 10x optical zoom lens with image stabilisation, with built in Wi-Fi and NFC the lens camera unit can connect to any compatible smartphone or device (such as a tablet) for remote operation and photo viewing.

Sony research has suggested the top 3 issues smartphone photographers face include optical zoom, image stabilization, and low light performance, with 77% of smartphone users saying their primary use is photography. In order to provide a solution to the problems inherent with smartphone photography, Sony has developed the new "Smart Lens" system that can be used with any smartphone.


Sony Cyber-Shot QX10 Black with the Sony Xperia T.

"Smart Lens" – The Smart Lens is Android and iOS compatible, as well as compatible with the Kindle and other tablets. Using the camera with another device as the remote control, you are able to use touch AF, with Wi-Fi working up to around 10m, or more. The Smart Lens has built in one touch connection using NFC. The Smart Lens will also work with devices that don’t have NFC built in, you can just connect over Wi-Fi networking.

Sony Cyber-shot QX10 Key Features

• 18.2mp, 1/2.3" type, BSI CMOS Exmor R, for better low-light performance
• 10x zoom, 25-250mm equivalent
• Full HD Video (MP4)
• NFC, Wi-Fi
• Stereo mic
• Micro SD / M2 memory card slot
• ERP £179 
• Available in white or black

Transferring images - Full resolution images are stored on the memory card, and smartphone images are transferred at 2 megapixels by default, although this can be changed to full size depending on how you setup the camera link. You don't have to transfer images to the smartphone if you don’t want to, and it will also work without a memory card so you can just store images directly on the smartphone.

Battery life for the camera is rated at 110 minutes or 220 photos, with the camera using an N series battery from standard Sony Cyber-shots. The battery can be charged in the camera over USB, and is also removable so you can charge it in the optional charger.

The Smart Lens doesn't have to be physically connected to the phone and can be used as a separate camera – with the screen of the smartphone used for viewing / live view remotely. You would most likely want to use it this way with the smartphone so that you can see what you are taking photos of, even though it can also be used without first being connected to the smartphone.



An upgraded Sony Playmemories Mobile App will be available giving an improved number of options over previous versions: iA, Superior Auto, Program Auto, Copy from connected device, white balance, self-timer, focus mode, image size, preview setting, review image size, beep setting, format, movie, photo, exposure compensation (+/-3). The app lets you change settings using the touch-screen.

Both the QX10 and QX100 cameras feature a tripod socket, both have a small LCD display for battery life, with the shutter release and zoom control on side. An adjustable attachment provided can hold the lens to the smartphone, so it will work with any smartphone. The lens locks into place on the attachment, with a small button used to unlock it so it can be detached.

The Sony Xperia Z has an optional special attachment available that can go on the back of the smartphone so you can more neatly attach it. A soft carrying case will also be available for the Smart Lens to keep it protected.

Sony Cyber-shot QX10 Hands-On Photos of Equipment

Sony Cyber-shot QX10 Specifications

View Full Product Details