Sony Electronics plans to let users customize their picture-taking abilities by downloading "apps" to its new NEX-5R WiFi-enabled compact system camera. The NEX-5R, announced on Wednesday, builds on the well-respected NEX-5N design, adding the aforementioned WiFi connectivity and syncing, compatibility with "Camera Apps," and a "Fast Hybrid" autofocus system.
Sony said that the NEX-5R includes a redesigned 16.1 megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor, which integrates 99 phase-detection AF points. The NEX-5R uses those points to quickly acquire a focus point, and then uses contrast detection to refine the focus point (or "confirm extremely fine, precise details," according to Sony). Phase detection is also used during high-speed continuous shooting in order to achieve continuous AF at 10 frames per second.
The Fast Hybrid AF system will only work with a limited number of newer lenses at launch, including the E 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 OSS, E 55-210mm F4-6.3 OSS, E 18-200mm F3.5-6.3 OSS, and E 24mm F1.8ZA Sonnar T*. Firmware updates will "steadily expand" Fast Hybrid AF with additional lenses
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from Ars Technica http://arstechnica.com
