Hands-on with Nikon’s Coolpix P520 and L820 superzooms at CP+ (video)

Posted on 01/02/2013 by Zach Honig

Nikon introduced a pair of step-up superzoom cameras here at CP+, with the P520 designed to meet the needs of advanced amateur shooters and the L820 best suited for casual photographers looking to get a bit closer to the action. Both models include BSI CMOS sensors, with the $450 P520 snapping 18.1-megapixel stills and the $280 L820 capturing 16 megapixels. That first model includes a 42x (24-1,000mm) optical zoom lens while the latter sports a 30x (22.5-675mm) optic -- both offer lens-based image stabilization. Both options feature lens-mounted zoom toggles, pop-up flashes and dedicated video capture buttons, but only the P520 offers a dedicated mode dial, and if you're planning to make changes on the fly, that's really a necessity.

We caught up with the duo at Nikon's CP+ booth this week -- we were expecting some inconsistency between the two based on price and specs alone, but after trying out both models, the Coolpix P520 is far and above the better option. The VGA-resolution 3.2-inch display was incredibly sharp and bright, and the vari-angle functionality lets you snap overhead and below-eye-level shots with ease. The camera was very responsive and the housing felt quite durable -- you definitely get quite a bit for your 450 bucks. The L820, on the other hand, felt very much like a low-end alternative, so unless you're on a strict budget or in the market for a sub-$300 model, you'll want to spend for the P520. You should be able to check out both cameras in retail stores beginning later this month, or you can take a look today in our hands-on after the break.

Gallery: Nikon P520 and L820 hands-on

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Nikon Coolpix AW110 and S31 ruggedized cams see some action at CP+ (hands-on video)

Posted on 31/01/2013 by Zach Honig

You might figure that a climate-controlled exhibition center would offer a safe haven for even the most delicate of electronics, but with thousands of consumers getting handsy with these gadgets, many devices take quite a beating during a week-long trade show. No drop to the floor, counter crush or attendee sneeze is too much for these ruggedized Nikons, however. The Coolpix AW110 and S31 were both designed with wild lifestyles in mind, with waterproof and shockproof housings offering protection on land and under the sea. Our test location this week was limited to a display counter positioned front and center at Nikon's CP+ booth in Yokohama, so we can't speak to durability, but both offerings look convincing enough.

With a sticker price of $350, the AW110 is certainly the higher-end of the two. We were particularly taken with the 3-inch OLED display, which looked fantastic -- it's perhaps the sharpest screen we've seen on any ruggedized model. The 5x internal zoom lens wasn't speedier than we expected, but it'll get the job done. The S31, however, looks very much like a child's plaything. And, considering the $120 MSRP (for a ruggedized camera, no less), it seems to be priced as such. We'll let you make that call for yourself, however -- take a closer look at both point-and-shoots after the break.

Gallery: Nikon AW110 and S31 hands-on

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Nikon updates Coolpix compact lineup with S9500, sub-$200 S5200 and L28

Posted on 29/01/2013 by Zach Honig

A Coolpix for every budget? Nikon's got you covered with this latest lineup of compact point-and-shoots. The S9500, priced at $350, offers a standard mid-range lineup of pocketable-cam specs. There's an 18.1-megapixel 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor, an impressive 22x 25-550mm zoom lens and a 3-inch OLED display. As you might expect from a camera in this price range, Nikon threw in embedded WiFi and GPS, letting you geotag and upload your pics directly from the camera. Next up is the $180 S5200, which manages to squeeze in a 16-megapixel 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor and a 6x, 26-156mm optically stabilized zoom lens. You'll use the 3-inch HVGA LCD to navigate the updated (and simplified) user interface. Both of these cameras offer 1080/30p HD video capture modes, too.

Budget-cam hunters might like the $120 Coolpix L28, which is largely identical to its predecessor, the L26, save for a new CCD sensor that snaps 20.1-megapixel stills, rather than the 16.1-megapixel shots you'd be able to grab with 2012's offering. Otherwise, you'll find a 5x, 26-130mm zoom lens with a maximum aperture range of f/3.2-6.5, a 3-inch QVGA LCD, 720p video shooting and an AA battery compartment. All three cameras are set to ship in late February, and will be available in black. The S9500 will also sport a red or silver finish, the S5200 can be had in blue, purple or red, while the L28 will come in red and silver. Try to hold back your excitement.

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WITH INCREDIBLE ZOOM RANGES, NIKON'S NEW S9500, P520 and L820 COOLPIX CAMERAS MAKE CAPTURING ACTION AT A DISTANCE EASY

Combining Connectivity with High Quality NIKKOR Lenses, Nikon's New COOLPIX Cameras are Designed for Every Shooting Occasion

MELVILLE, NY (January 28, 2013) - Today, Nikon Inc. introduced three new COOLPIX digital cameras with high-power zoom lenses, enabling consumers to capture beautiful images and videos at a wide range of distances. The COOLPIX P520 sports a 42x zoom lens and the versatility needed for advanced performance, while the 22x zoom COOLPIX S9500 combines impressive range with an ultra-slim, pocketable package. Both feature Wi-Fi(R) connectivity1 that allows users to send images and videos from their camera directly to a compatible smart device through the Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application1, ideal for sharing content with others as well as for posting to social networking sites. The compact COOLPIX L820 offers a 30x zoom and an ergonomic design, making it simple and fun to comfortably capture images and videos at various distances. Great for anyone from the weekend jetsetter to the everyday memory maker, the zoom lenses and user-friendly features of the newest COOLPIX cameras make them ideal to have on-hand for any occasion.

"Nikon's new long zoom COOLPIX cameras provide consumers with the chance to capture a diverse range of subjects and scenes, whether near the subject or at a distance," said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. "Designed for the frequent traveler, the instant sharer, and the family memory keeper, these new COOLPIX cameras offer trusted Nikon technology, high image quality, Full HD video and a variety of other features that meet photographers' needs."

The Nikon COOLPIX P520: The Advanced Performance Ultra Zoom Camera
For those looking to capture a beautiful and sharp image up close or at a distance, the new COOLPIX P520 boasts a 42x optical zoom-NIKKOR glass lens with an impressive zoom range from a wide 24mm to a whopping 1000mm (35mm equivalent), for users that require the very best in performance and versatility. Lens-shift Vibration Reduction (VR) alongside the new Active Mode assist in capturing blur-free images and video, while full manual controls give users the power to realize their creative potential when shooting. The P520 also features an 18.1-megapixel backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor and high ISO sensitivity to ensure quality images even in low-light conditions.

Additionally, the COOLPIX P520 allows users to not only shoot images from a distance, but also at unique angles thanks to a versatile 3.2-inch Vari-Angle LCD monitor. Additionally, Full HD (1080p) video recording with stereo sound is possible with the simple touch of the dedicated movie record button. This ultra-zoom camera comes with built-in GPS capabilities as well, allowing photographers to log their journey with an easy-to-use display.

To share images and videos instantly with family and friends, the P520 is compatible with the WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter2. This optional accessory paired along with the downloadable Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application1 allows users to transfer their images and videos to compatible smart devices and tablets for easy sharing and viewing with others.

The Nikon COOLPIX L820: A Comfortable Long Zoom Camera Fit to Preserve Precious Family Memories

Designed to capture stunning images at various distances, the compact COOLPIX L820 sports a high-power 30x zoom, a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, and Vibration Reduction (VR) technology to help keep shots steady. With its super wide-angle lens, covering from wide-angle 22.5mm to super-telephoto 675mm, users have the versatility to capture crisp, vivid images, whether up-close or at a distance. The camera's 3-inch monitor, ergonomic design, along with the convenience of AA-size batteries and a dedicated video button make it easy and fun for users to shoot comfortably. Thanks to a simple and intuitive interface, users can easily access a wide range of features, including Easy Auto Mode and Smart Portrait System, which enable them to enhance their photos with options like Red Eye Fix and Face-Priority AF. Other special effects include Glamour Retouch, Filter Effects and Skin Softening for optimal portrait enhancements.

The Nikon COOLPIX S9500: New Ultra-Slim Zoom Offering Shares World Travels With Ease
The slim COOLPIX S9500 sports a 22x optical zoom (25-550mm) and is the perfect companion for anyone that wants to capture and share high-quality images and HD videos with a sleek and stylish package. Small enough to keep close in a shirt pocket or purse, the S9500 features an 18.1-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, ideal for capturing low-light images with clarity and sharpness. It also sports a legendary NIKKOR lens with Vibration Reduction (VR) to minimize the effects of blur and camera shake. For those who want to capture their journey through video, this camera also offers Full HD (1080p) movie recording with stereo sound. Additionally, a bright 3-inch OLED monitor assists users to clearly compose or view their recorded movies or captured images, even when in bright conditions. The COOLPIX S9500 also offers various shooting effects to enhance memories, including an upgraded Glamour Retouch function, Skin Softening and Quick Effects.

To enhance the user's sharing capabilities when away from family and friends, the S9500 offers a built-in GPS function to provide the user the ability to log their travels and share where they have been. In addition, the camera offers built-in Wi-Fi(R)1 connectivity so images and videos can be shared while on the go by transferring them to a compatible smart device equipped with the Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application1. It also enables users to remotely take photos with the camera from a compatible smartphone or tablet.

The COOLPIX S6500: Compact Camera that Packs a Powerful 12x Zoom
Announced earlier this month, the COOLPIX S6500 is designed for those looking for an easy-to-carry camera that takes and shares great photos, easily. The camera features a 12x optical zoom lens, a 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and a variety of user-friendly features, including five new Glamour Retouch effects, all packed into a slim, stylish camera body. In addition to an extensive feature set, the S6500 offers built-in Wi-Fi(R) connectivity1 that allows users to transfer images and HD movies from their camera directly to a compatible smart device.

Price and Availability:
The COOLPIX P520 will be available for a suggested retail price of $449.95* in Black, Red, and Dark Grey in February 2013. The COOLPIX L820 will be available for a suggested retail price of $279.95* in Black and Red, while the COOLPIX S9500 will be available for a suggested retail price of $349.95* in Black, Silver, and Red. Both will be available in February 2013. Additionally, the previously announced COOLPIX S6500 will be available in early February for a suggested retail price of $219.95* in Silver, Black, Red and Orange.

THE LATEST ADDITIONS TO THE NIKON COOLPIX LINE OFFER AN EASY AND FUN SHOOTING EXPERIENCE FOR CONSUMERS SEEKING A VALUE

The New COOLPIX S5200 and COOLPIX L28 Capture Gorgeous Stills and HD Video with Ease

MELVILLE, N.Y. (January 28, 2013) - Today, Nikon Inc. introduced two budget friendly additions to its COOLPIX line that offer a compact, intuitive design for value-seeking consumers who want to capture high quality stills and HD video. With an emphasis on simplicity, alongside helpful in-camera editing and shooting controls, the new COOLPIX S5200 and COOLPIX L28 are ideal for capturing life's everyday moments, anytime, anywhere.

"Nikon's newest COOLPIX cameras combine Nikon's renowned image quality and superior technology in conveniently slim bodies for those who love to share their memories," said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience. "These new COOLPIX cameras are affordable, yet offer classic user-friendly features like Best Smile Selector and Easy Auto Mode, ideal for customers looking to capture high-quality images with ease."

The Nikon COOLPIX S5200: The Camera for Staying Connected
The COOLPIX S5200 is a versatile camera with a 16.0-megapixel backside-illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor that captures high-quality images and video, even in low-light conditions. Featuring a wide-angle 6x (26mm to 156mm) optical zoom-NIKKOR glass lens, the compact and slim S5200 ensures crisp, detailed images in a pocketable body. Images and videos can be uploaded and shared instantly using the camera's built-in Wi-Fi(R) capabilities1, allowing users to share images and videos with compatible smart devices via the Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility application1.

While sharing photos is fun, the COOLPIX S5200 makes creating flattering photos easy. Users have access to simple editing and shooting features including Best Smile Selector, a tool that automatically helps select the shot that best compliments the subject. In addition, an upgraded version of Glamour Retouch lets the user brighten faces using a variety of retouch effects. All shooting features, including Quick Effects and Target Finding AF, are accessible using the camera's simple yet intuitive 3-inch TFT LCD monitor.

The Nikon COOLPIX L28: A Compact Camera for Everyday Life
The 20.1-megapixel COOLPIX L28 features easy-to-use shooting functions and streamlined operation that allow users to capture unique and expressive photos and videos effortlessly. Equipped with a 5x optical zoom (26mm to 130mm) and simple shooting functions such as Easy Auto Mode, this new COOLPIX camera allows the user to capture pristine still images and HD video at the touch of a button. The COOLPIX L28's Smart Portrait Mode has six functions including Face-priority AF, Skin Softening, Smile Timer, Blink Proof and In-Camera Red-Eye Fix that allow users to take their creativity to new heights. For comfortable operation, the L28 also sports a 3-inch TFT LCD screen and an easy-to-hold grip and button layout that fits in a user's hand comfortably. The COOLPIX L28 uses widely available AA-size alkaline batteries, so users can conveniently keep their cameras powered.

Pricing and Availability:
The COOLPIX S5200 will be available in February 2013 for a suggested retail price of $179.95* in Plum, Red, Blue and Black. The COOLPIX L28 will be available in February 2013 for a suggested retail price of $119.95* in Red, Black and Silver.

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Get your superzoom on with Nikon’s Coolpix P520 and L820

Posted on 29/01/2013 by Zach Honig

Oh, the superzoom camera -- it's not a compact and the lens doesn't twist off, but for one reason or another, this confused category has survived against the odds. So, if superzooms happen to be your shooter of choice, we've got some good news: Nikon's got a new pair to add to the pickins. For those with deeper pockets, the Coolpix P520 might be on order, with an 18.1-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and a 3.2-inch vari-angle (tilt-and-swivel) VGA display. There's a 42x f/3.0-5.8, 24-1,000mm lens on board, netting you quite a bit of range. It also offers 1080/60i HD video shooting and WiFi compatibility through the optional ($60) WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter.

Casual photographers might be more taken with the Coolpix L820, which still packs a fair amount of punch, thanks to a 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, a 30x, 22.5-675mm zoom lens with optical VR, and 1080p video shooting. Unlike its more feature-packed sibling, though, this model uses AA batteries -- which you might be into if international travel is on the agenda (those disposable cells are available worldwide, which helps if you aren't keen on plugging in a charger). Both offerings will hit stores in late February, with the P520 available for $450 and the L820 shipping for $280, in your choice of black or red finishes.

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WITH INCREDIBLE ZOOM RANGES, NIKON'S NEW S9500, P520 and L820 COOLPIX CAMERAS MAKE CAPTURING ACTION AT A DISTANCE EASY

Combining Connectivity with High Quality NIKKOR Lenses, Nikon's New COOLPIX Cameras are Designed for Every Shooting Occasion

The Nikon COOLPIX L820: A Comfortable Long Zoom Camera Fit to Preserve Precious Family Memories
Designed to capture stunning images at various distances, the compact COOLPIX L820 sports a high-power 30x zoom, a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, and Vibration Reduction (VR) technology to help keep shots steady. With its super wide-angle lens, covering from wide-angle 22.5mm to super-telephoto 675mm, users have the versatility to capture crisp, vivid images, whether up-close or at a distance. The camera's 3-inch monitor, ergonomic design, along with the convenience of AA-size batteries and a dedicated video button make it easy and fun for users to shoot comfortably. Thanks to a simple and intuitive interface, users can easily access a wide range of features, including Easy Auto Mode and Smart Portrait System, which enable them to enhance their photos with options like Red Eye Fix and Face-Priority AF. Other special effects include Glamour Retouch, Filter Effects and Skin Softening for optimal portrait enhancements.

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Nikon Coolpix AW110 and S31 deliver ruggedized shooting at vastly different price points

Posted on 29/01/2013 by Zach Honig

Looking to snap some frames from the mountains to the prairies to the oceans white with foam? Nikon's got you covered, with a pair of ruggedized point-and-shoots. The high-end model here, dubbed the Coolpix AW110, will set you back a whopping 350 bucks, while the S31 will run you about $120. Clearly, you'll be making some compromises if opting for the (significantly) lower-priced model. The AW110 sports waterproofing to depths of 60 feet, compared to 16.5 feet for the less-ambitious S31 -- the former will work just fine at many scuba depths, while the other model should have you covered for casual snorkeling expeditions.

That $350 price tag will also net you built-in WiFi and GPS, a 3-inch OLED display, 1/2.3-inch 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor and a 5x (28-140mm), f/3.9-4.8 optical zoom lens. The $120 S31, however, includes the same sensor as its predecessor, the S30, with a 1/2.9-inch 10-megapixel CCD. It also includes a 2.7-inch LCD and it can sustain drops from up to 3.6 feet (compared to 6.6 feet for the AW110). It does include a rechargeable battery, however, while the previous-generation model required AAs. Both cameras will hit stores at the end of February, with the AW110 available in black, blue, camouflage and orange, and the S31 shipping in blue, brown, pink, white and pink. Catch a few more details in the press release after the break.

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THE NEW FAMILY-FRIENDLY NIKON COOLPIX S31 AND THE ACTION-ORIENTED COOLPIX AW110 ARE READY TO TAKE ON LIFE'S ADVENTURES

MELVILLE, N.Y. (January 28, 2013) - Today, Nikon Inc. introduced both the COOLPIX AW110 and COOLPIX S31, two innovative yet durable compact cameras for those who want to preserve every fun and action-packed moment as well as share them with friends and family. Waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof1, the rugged AW110 is built to handle the elements, whether hiking up a mountain, hitting the slopes or riding the surf. Nikon's newest tough camera also offers built-in Wi-Fi(R) connectivity2 for sharing, Full HD 1080p video capabilities and a slew of advanced features that adventurers covet, including GPS and underwater shooting modes. The COOLPIX S31 provides the reliability that allows every member of the family to preserve their own special memories. Complete with fun shooting modes and a simple yet intuitive user interface, the resilient S31 is a family camera that can be confidently carried to the pool or around the jungle gym.

"The COOLPIX AW110 and COOLPIX S31 are exciting new additions to the COOLPIX camera lineup; both are uniquely designed to complement the needs of different consumers. The COOLPIX AW110 is designed to cater to outdoor enthusiasts who need a camera that can keep up with their active lifestyle, while the COOLPIX S31's easy-to-use interface is great for family members young and old who seek to capture lasting memories," said Bo Kajiwara, Vice President of Marketing, Planning and Customer Experience, Nikon Inc. "Whether conquering your desire for exploration while snorkeling or simply capturing a family day at the park, Nikon's newest cameras offer the performance, features and image quality users have come to expect from the COOLPIX line."

The Nikon COOLPIX AW110: Durable Performance for the Outdoor Adventurer
The COOLPIX AW110 is the ultimate point-and-shoot camera for the outdoor enthusiast that demands exceptional image quality and sharp, clear HD video from a compact body. Ready for the toughest conditions, this rugged camera sports a fun and innovative feature set designed to capture, preserve and share every moment of a user's active lifestyle. Waterproof (up to 59 feet), shockproof (up to 6.7 feet) and freezeproof (down to 14° F), the AW110 is a versatile and feature-rich companion, above and below sea level. GPS technology is also enabled, allowing a traveler to track his or her adventure from beginning to end, down to the exact longitude and latitude where an image or video is captured. The COOLPIX AW110 also features built-in Wi-Fi(R) connectivity2, allowing the image data transfer of any outdoor adventure to compatible smart devices for upload to social networking services or sharing with friends and family through the Wireless Mobile Adapter Utility2 application. Wireless remote camera control is also possible using a compatible smartphone or tablet when using the application.

Beneath its rugged exterior, the AW110 features a 16-megapixel backside illuminated (BSI) CMOS sensor that helps create sharp, beautiful images and HD video even in challenging lighting conditions. The camera also has a NIKKOR 5x optical zoom lens with lens-shift Vibration Reduction (VR) that allows the photographer to get close up to a subject from a distance, as well as the ability to record Full HD (1080p) movies with stereo sound. The COOLPIX AW110 features a 3-inch, OLED display for easy menu access and precise image preview, alongside an intuitive graphic user interface (GUI) that makes it easy to navigate several fun and intelligent shooting modes, including Easy Auto Mode and the Smart Portrait System, while Special Effects can be easily applied to still images and HD video.

The Nikon COOLPIX S31: Every Family Member Can Capture Beautiful Images, Worry Free
Ready for every precious family moment, the 10.1-megapixel COOLPIX S31 allows every family member young and old to capture beautiful photos with ease, whether on vacation or at the pool. Housed in a compact, durable body that is waterproof (up to 16.5 feet), shockproof (up to 3.6 feet) and dustproof1, this point-and-shoot takes the worry out of photography regardless of the setting or situation. Clear and precise images or HD video are made possible with the help of a 3x optical zoom (29-87mm equivalent) NIKKOR lens, and a dedicated video record button creates an effortless transition from stills to video.

A 2.7-inch LCD display supports an enhanced easy and intuitive graphic user interface (GUI) that allows for simple navigation and several shooting and playback modes designed to make photography simple and fun when using the S31. The camera allows the user to instantly show off his or her favorite family moments using unique playback options including in-camera slide shows and photo albums. Image editing and playback filter effects can also be applied to both stills and video, offering the opportunity to add a personal touch to every family memory. The COOLPIX S31 features functions that make shooting simpler than ever before.

Pricing and Availability:
The COOLPIX AW110 will be available in Orange, Black, Camouflage and Blue in February 2013 for a suggested retail price of $349.95*. The COOLPIX S31 will be available in White, Blue, Pink, Brown and Yellow, also in February 2013, for a suggested retail price of $119.95*.

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Nikon outs Coolpix S6500 with WiFi, new beauty touch-ups

Posted on 08/01/2013 by Jon Fingas

The budget, compact long-zoom camera field must be a cutthroat one -- Nikon unveiled the Coolpix S6300 early last year, quietly slipped out the S6400 later in 2012, and it's already previewing a S6500 at CES. What's new that justifies such a quick refresh? WiFi, mostly: the S6500 should be one of the less expensive cameras in its class to share its photos directly over a local network. Photographers with self-conscious subjects also get five new Glamor Retouch modes that brighten cheeks, eyes and teeth. Otherwise, those who bought an S6400 will feel like they're in familiar territory between the 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor, 12x (25-300mm equivalent) lens and 1080p video capture. The S6500 arrives towards the end of January for $220, which makes it low-hanging fruit for anyone who wants a dash of everything in their next point-and-shoot upgrade.

Continue reading Nikon outs Coolpix S6500 with WiFi, new beauty touch-ups

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Source: Nikon

Nikon patent would perfect the art of camera tossing, protect us from our folly

Posted on 23/10/2012 by Jon Fingas

If you're one of the more daring (or foolhardy) photographers out there, you've tried camera tossing: hurling your camera into the air in the hopes that a timed shot will catch either a unique perspective or an artistic spin. Nikon might not want to stop those shooters from throwing caution to the wind, but its recently published Japanese patent would at least keep those throws to a minimum. Cameras based on the patent could use a built-in accelerometer not just for timing the shot, but to brace for a fall by covering the lens and retracting its barrel on the way down. In theory, the photographer gets a perfect aerial portrait without all the guesswork and a minimum of damage. Call us skeptical that we'll ever see the patent reach a shipping product, though -- even if it was limited to rugged cameras, a mode built almost exclusively around voiding the warranty probably wouldn't sit well with Nikon's accountants.

[Image credit: Zoli B, Flickr]

Filed under: Cameras, Nikon

Nikon patent would perfect the art of camera tossing, protect us from our folly originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 23 Oct 2012 04:21:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nikon COOLPIX S01: The Teeny Tiny Camera

Posted on 28/08/2012 by Range

Marketing a new digital camera can be problematic these days, since most people are happy to snap photos with their smartphones. It’s only when you take a lot of photos that you realize that the camera sensor on your phone might not be good enough for every situation. The Nikon COOLPIX S01 hasn’t got the biggest sensor, but it’s diminuitive size will make it easy to carry around as an adjunct to your smartphone’s camera.

nikon coolpix s01 tiny camera

The COOLPIX S01 has a 1/3 inch CCD sensor that has a resolution of 10.1 MP and a 3x optical zoom lens. It weighs only 96 grams (3.38 oz) and measures 3.03″ × 2″ × 2/3″ in size. In order to reduce its size, Nikon chose to use a built-in battery and eliminate the SD slot. The camera comes with 7.3 GB of internal storage instead, which should be plenty unless you plan on shooting massive amounts of 720p video with it. All controls and dials have been removed so that the camera is completely controlled by its 2.5″ touchscreen.

The COOLPIX S01 will be available in September for $180 in mirror, pink, red, black and white.

nikon coolpix s01 tiny camera front

nikon coolpix s01 tiny camera colors

nikon coolpix s01 tiny camera back

[via designboom]

Nikon Coolpix S01 hands-on (video)

Posted on 22/08/2012 by Richard Lai

Another gem at Nikon's unveiling today is this little Coolpix S01, and by "little" we really mean little. At just 96 grams, this is the smallest and lightest Coolpix device ever but it's still surprisingly usable. But like our hands-on with the Android-powered S800c, we couldn't walk away with any sample photos to judge the S01's image quality. Just a quick recap: here you get a 10-megapixel CCD sensor, 3x optical zoom (29mm to 87mm), 720p video capture, several filter effects and a simple touch interface on a 2.5-inch LCD. We also saw five color options in Hong Kong: pink, black, white, red and silver (fingerprint magnet alert!). Our only complaints are that said camera uses a resistive touchscreen, and the lack of white balance options is also quite bizarre -- $179 isn't exactly a cheap enough price to justify this flaw. Still interested? Hit the video after the break for a quick tour.

Update: And the official sample shots are available now.

Gallery: Nikon Coolpix S01 hands-on

Continue reading Nikon Coolpix S01 hands-on (video)

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Nikon Coolpix S01 hands-on (video) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 22 Aug 2012 08:56:00 EDT. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Nikon Coolpix S800c hands-on: a closer look at the Android camera (video)

Posted on 22/08/2012 by Richard Lai

It was only hours ago when Nikon officially unveiled the Coolpix S800c, but we've already laid our hands on this eccentric device. As you've probably already heard, the main selling point here is that said "smart camera" is powered by a slick (and near-vanilla) Android 2.3.3 with Google services, so with the built-in WiFi, you can upload your 16-megapixel images or 1080p videos straight to your various social networks or other cloud services. Or you can, if you're in the mood, just play Angry Birds on the S800c, but that 1,050mAh battery might not be ideal for prolonged entertainment. Sadly, we weren't allowed to share any images taken with the demo units (sorry, usual Nikon protocol), but what we can tell you is that both the camera's speed and quality weren't bad at all, and likewise with the 3.5-inch 854 x 480 OLED multitouch display -- the high pixel density makes the PenTile arrangement more forgivable.

The most interesting thing we discovered was that it seems the camera part of the S800c can run independently from Android while the latter is still booting up. You see, rather than letting the device stay on standby like most other Android devices, Nikon uses a shut-down timer that activates once Android goes on standby. When the camera's completely switched off, hit the power button and you'll go straight into camera mode which lets you shoot immediately, then about half a minute later the interface seamlessly goes back to smart mode, which is when you can hit the back or home button to toggle the Android unlock screen (though we'd rather go straight into the home screen). This cunning trick would probably explain why we couldn't get any internal hardware detail from the few benchmark tools we installed, but we did squeeze out a score of 614 in Vellamo -- detailed breakdown in the gallery below. Anyhow, you can see the camera in action in the video after the break.

The Nikon Coolpix S800c will be available next month for $350 in the US and £379 in the UK. As always, stay tuned for our review.

Update: Nikon's released some sample shots. Take a look.

Gallery: Nikon Coolpix S800c hands-on: a closer look at the Android camera