Sony NEX-5T Succeeds NEX-5R With NFC, Wi-Fi, Touchscreen Control
This week the folks at Sony have revealed the Sony NEX-5T, a next-generation camera aiming at users hoping to step up from compact DSCs and those wishing for a second camera not quite as massive as their DSLR. This device works with a 16.1 megapixel image sensor with ISO 25600 up front and a 180-degree tilting LCD display on its back. It also works with Wi-fi connectivity and NFC to connect with smartphones and tablets wirelessly.
Working with Sony E-mount lenses, this device employs a Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor (23.5 X 15.6mm) and a BIONZ image processor. With this setup, Sony NEX-5T works with both high-speed Auto-Focus and continuous Auto-Focus while simultaneously being able to execute continuous shooting (that's a bit of the ol' Tracking Focus).
Advancing past the Sony NEXT-5R, this 5T model works with a back-facing touchscreen as well – that's in addition to standard physical shutter button, zoom, and adjustment ring. This back-facing display is 3.0-inches (7.5cm) and Touchscreen capable with TFT LCD technology. You can tilt it up to 180 degrees (forward facing) and down approximately 50 degrees – for when you're holding the unit up high.
On the right side of the phone (near the shutter button) you'll find an "N" logo showing you where the NFC chip is located. With the most recent line of Sony smartphones and tablets – like the Xperia Z, for example – this pairing will launch PlayMemories Mobile. This app allows you to instantly view photos and video you shoot and allows the smartphone to control the camera wirelessly. This app also works on iOS and in other Android devices – NFC simply allows the devices to connect – aka the iPhone 5 can't connect quite as seamlessly.
Image stabilization is provided by Sony's own Optical SteadyShot, and right out of the box you've got Focal Length (35mm equivalent) at 24mm-77mm, Aperture min f/3.5 – 5.6 and max f/22 – F32, and an optical zoom at approximately 3x.
You'll be working with Intelligent Auto, Automatic HDR, Face Detection and Smile Shutter technology, and shutter speeds at 1/4000 to 30 sec in still mode or 1/4000 to 1/4 (or up to Up to 1/60 in AUTO mode) for movies – that's quick. This device will be appearing in early September for $699 and it'll be delivered in black, white and silver.
NOTE: While we've had a brief encounter with this Sony shooter, we'll be waiting until we've got our own review device to bring you a real-world account of what it's like to shoot and film. Stay tuned!
