Sony Cyber-shot QX100 Hands-On Preview

The new Sony Cyber-Shot QX100 is based on the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II, with a 3.6x optical zoom lens, 20 megapixel 1inch backlit CMOS sensor, manual controls, and MicroSD / M2 memory slot. 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 users face with photography include lack of optical zoom, image stabilization, and poor low light performance. In order to provide a solution to this, Sony has developed the new "Smart Lens" system that can be used with any smartphone.


Sony Cyber Shot QX100 with HTC One Mini.

"Smart Lens" – The Smart Lens, as Sony are calling it, 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 built in NFC. The Smart Lens will also work with devices that don’t have NFC built in, you can just connect with Wi-Fi networking.

Sony Cyber-shot QX100 Key Features

• f/1.8, 3.6x optical zoom, Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* Lens
• 20 megapixel, 1inch BSI Exmor R sensor, for better low-light performance
• Full HD Video (MP4)
• NFC, Wi-Fi, Manual Focus
• Stereo mic
• MicroSD / M2 card slot
• Front control ring, Manual controls
• ERP £399 (so cheaper than original)
• Available in black

The Smart Lens doesn't have to be physically connected to the phone before use and can be used on its own as a separate camera away from the smartphone. You would most likely want to use the smartphone screen so that you can see what you are taking photos of, even though it can be used without first being connected to the smartphone.

Transferring images - Full resolution images are stored on the memory card in the camera, and smartphone images are transferred at 2 megapixels (default setting) or 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 is removable so that you can charge it in an optional charger, or in the camera it will charge over USB.



An upgraded Sony Playmemories Mobile App will be available giving an improved number of options over previous versions: iA, Superior Auto, Program Auto, Aperture Priority (QX100), Copy from connected device, white balance, self-timer, focus mode (MF/AFS), 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 QX100 and QX10 feature a tripod socket, both have a small LCD display to show battery life. On the side is the shutter release and zoom control. An adjustable attachment provided can hold the lens to the smartphone, so it will work with any smartphone up to a certain size - this attachment will nto work with tablets. 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 the Smart Lens unit to it, and a soft carrying case will also be available for storage.

Sony Cyber-shot QX100 Hands-On Photos of Equipment

Sony Cyber-shot QX100 Specifications

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