Sony Cyber-Shot RX100: 20.2MP And Carl Zeiss For $650

Smartphones continue to add better cameras and sensors, so how do traditional camera makers combat such devices? Sony is banking on a new sensor attached to a lightweight point and shoot chassis in the form of the Cyber-shot RX100. The aluminium body plays host to a 20.2 megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor coupled with an f/1.8 Carl Zeiss Vario Sonnar T* lens.

Sony say that the 1-inch sensor has an area that's four times larger than traditional point and shoot sensors, which allows for greater light capture, strong detail, and low noise. That sensor comes with the f/1.8 Carl Zeiss lens, equipped with a 3.6x optical zoom and advanced aspherical lens system which Sony say helps keep the size down.

The 3-inch 1,229k dot LCD features Sony's WhiteMagic technology, first seen on the Sony Xperia P, which adds an extra white sub pixel for additional brightness. The included BIONZ image processor enables ISO to be ramped up to 25,600 while aiding a burst mode, capable of capturing 10 photos a second at full resolution, and 1080p video recording has made the grade too.

Sony say that the RX100 should be available starting from July for around $650. Accessories will include a spare battery, carrying case, and battery charger.