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Sony Xperia UL announced for Japan: 5-inch 1080p display and 15-frame burst photography skills (video)

Posted by Gsurface on May 20, 2013 No comments

The FCC might have spoiled the surprise, but Sony’s now gone official with yet another smartphone and this one’s for its native Japan. The Xperia UL appears to be a slightly thicker riff on the Xperia Z, matching the display of the company’s early-2013 flagship, while adding a Snapdragon 600 processor to the 5-inch 1080p screen. It’s worth noting that those are two substantial spec bumps up from the similar-looking NTT DoCoMo Xperia A. That improved processor taps into the built-in Exmor RS 13-megapixel camera sensor, offering up the ability to capture 15 frames in a second. NFC, naturally, is already in attendance as well as the Felica wireless payment system. You’ll also get the benefits of both a physical camera button and water (IPX5/8) and dust resistance (IP5X) — two features in tandem that should help separate it from Sony’s pair of existing 5-inch 1080p smartphones. The Xperia UL will launch on KDDI’s au network in white, black and hot pink colors on May 25th. Check out the obligatory close-up ad after the break.

Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, Sony

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Source: Sony (Japanese)

New Microsoft Xbox first round in technology war with Apple, Sony

Posted by Gsurface on May 18, 2013 No comments

The new Microsoft Xbox that will be unveiled next week not only opens up a new front in the battle of the games consoles but also launches a whole new war.

FOX News

Sony Xperia ZR announced, allows underwater photography to five feet of depth (video)

Posted by Gsurface on May 13, 2013 No comments

Sony’s ratcheted up its water-resistant device tech a notch with the launch of the Xperia ZR, a new 4.6-inch, 720P Android smartphone that’s waterproof to 1.5m (5 feet). Sony claims the new addition to the Xperia Z line will let film your snorkeling adventures in full HD quality with HDR in video or 13-megapixel stills thanks to the Exmor RS image sensor. The handset also boasts a Snapdragon S4 Pro quad-core 1.5GHZ CPU, 2GB RAM, LTE, NFC, Sony’s Walkman album and movie apps and an OptiContrast OLED screen with Bravia tech to reduce glare “even in bright sunlight.” There’s no word yet on pricing or availability, but as soon as we here more, we’ll try to prep you ahead of that next beach-bound holiday. Meanwhile, you can check the galleries, PR and video after the break for more.

Gallery: Sony Xperia ZR

Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, Sony

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Source: Sony (Facebook)

Sony records its first net profit in five years

Posted by Gsurface on May 9, 2013 No comments

Electronics giant swings profit on sale of assets while demand continues to deteriorate for products in its core electronics business. [Read more]

CNET News

Mystery 13-inch Sony Ultrabook slider pops up in horribly grainy YouTube video

Posted by Gsurface on May 9, 2013 No comments

We’ve already seen Sony take a stab at a Windows 8 hybrid in the form of the VAIO Duo 11, and now a clip has appeared on YouTube apparently showing an unannounced 13-inch Ultrabook slider with a 1080p Triluminos touchscreen display. Allegedly, the video is being used for training at UK retail chain Dixons, and in addition to repeatedly collapsing and opening the slim white and silver unit, the demonstrator plays around with a stylus in Microsoft’s Fresh Paint. There are a couple of text overlays near the end of clip, highlighting the “SurfSlider design,” backlit keyboard, ClearAudio+ and ActiveSleep tech, as well as its 10 hours of battery life. NFC is also said to be on board, along with an 8-megapixel camera with Exmor RS sensor, Intel Core i5 processor, 4GB RAM and 128GB SSD. The incredibly grainy video is embedded after the break, and although we can’t verify its authenticity, we also can’t ally it to any known product.

[Thanks, Aiga and Christopher]

Filed under: Laptops, Tablets, Sony

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Source: YouTube, Notebook Review forums

Sony revamps Vaio line with new Fit series

Posted by Gsurface on May 7, 2013 No comments

Alongside the new mainstream Fit laptops, updates come to the tabletop Tap 20 and other PCs. [Read more]

CNET News

Sony Xperia L swings by the FCC with North America-friendly 3G

Posted by Gsurface on May 5, 2013 No comments

While Sony intrigued us with the Xperia L’s blend of a low-end smartphone with a higher-end camera, it wasn’t very specific on just where we could eventually buy one: “worldwide” doesn’t help, folks. Courtesy of an FCC filing, there’s now a hint that the phone might show up in North America. The L has surfaced at the US agency carrying HSPA-based 3G compatible with the likes of AT&T, Straight Talk and T-Mobile, as well as Canadian carriers of all sizes. Even with a manual included in the filing, though, there’s no telltale clues as to which providers in either country might be interested. Without any built-in LTE, the Xperia L we see here is more likely to reach either smaller networks or go the carrier-independent route — if it comes to North America at all, that is.

Filed under: Cellphones, Mobile, Sony

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Source: FCC

Sony Xperia Tablet Z now up for pre-order, scheduled to ship May 24th (video)

Posted by Gsurface on April 29, 2013 No comments

If you’ve been waiting for the least burdensome tablet you could find, Sony’s 17.5 ounce, 6.9mm thick Xperia Tablet Z is now up for pre-order in the US. On top of being the lightest, slimmest 10-inch slate on the market, it’s not exactly slumming spec-wise either: there’s a 1.5GHz quad-core Snapdragon processor, Android 4.1.2 Jelly Bean, 2GB RAM, an 8.1-megapixel Exmor R camera, NFC, LTE, S-Force virtual surround sound, 32GB storage and a 10.1-inch 1,920 x 1,200 display with Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2 tech. To round it off, the tab is dust- and water-resistant, and Sony’s pre-loaded its TV SideView app, which uses the built-in IR to let you change your TV’s channel and get scheduling, recommendations, voice search and IMDB-like info. The downside? We noted that the ambitiously thin design made the device a bit bendy and creaky, and then there’s the $ 600 price tag — frugal shoppers need not apply. You can pre-order at the source, or check the video after the break to see how a three-legged dog might use the slate while taking a bath. No, you didn’t just misread that.

Filed under: Tablets, Sony

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Source: Sony Store

Sony announces Jak and Daxter Trilogy coming to PS Vita this June

Posted by Gsurface on April 21, 2013 No comments

Despite what the sales figures might imply, the general consensus is that, for the most part, the PlayStation Vita’s a neat portable console — although some still argue Sony could do a little more to give its precious handheld a boost when it comes to available content. And just as it did with the PS3, the Japanese electronics maker has now announced that a remastered collection of Jak and Daxter is headed to the PS Vita as well, which includes Jak and Daxter: The Precursor Legacy, Jak II and Jak 3. The trilogy’s said to be debuting on the PlayStation Vita at some point in June of this year for $ 29.99 in North America, or a corresponding €29.99 for those located across the pond in Europe. Not too bad a price to pay for some nostalgia-filled gaming sessions, eh?

Filed under: Gaming, Sony

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Via: Joystiq

Source: Sony

Sony backed Japanese Internet service twice the speed of Google Fiber

Posted by Gsurface on April 16, 2013 No comments

Those of us in the United States might be dreaming of the day when Google Fiber rolls our way, but the reality of ultra-fast Internet has come to the forefront in Tokyo and various other places in Japan, where Sony has backed an ISP to offer 2Gbps service for about $ 50 per month. This is

Sony ISP launches world's fastest home Internet, 2Gbps

Posted by Gsurface on April 15, 2013 No comments

A Sony-backed ISP in Japan has launched a 2Gbps Internet service, which it said is the world's fastest for home use.
Computerworld News

LulzSec hackers plead guilty to attacks on Sony, Nintendo, more

Posted by Gsurface on April 9, 2013 No comments

Ryan Ackroyd, Jake Davis, and Mustafa al-Bassam all admitted to plotting to hack Sony, 20th Century Fox, Nintendo, and other organizations in 2011. [Read more]

CNET News

Sony Anycast Touch live-broadcasting system hands-on (video)

Posted by Gsurface on April 9, 2013 No comments

The Anycast Touch is not only a sleeker incarnation of Sony’s all-in-one studio, with a slider design and a manageable-enough 6.6-kg (13-pound) body; it’s also the company’s first such system to feature a touchscreen interface. The machine sports two touch-enabled displays, allowing users to adjust audio controls, type via an on-screen keyboard and edit footage, among other functions. Video sources are assigned to one side of the panel, and tapping a particular input will bring up the footage in the middle preview window. It seems like an intuitive interface, especially given all the live-broadcasting controls on board — a six-input video switcher, a five-channel audio mixer, a built-in character and title generator, and a remote camera controller, just to name a few.

Aside from the touchscreens, built-in live-streaming capability is one of the Anycast Touch’s most unique features. On the show floor, Sony was sharing the product’s output with WiFi-enabled devices. According to the company, this functionality will be useful in educational settings, at houses of worship, corporate seminars and any other events intended to reach a broad audience. The Anycast could even help news producers scale back on their own gear, letting them trade those gigantic live trucks for live vans or sedans, for example. Pricing info isn’t set in stone, but Sony says the MSRP will be less than $ 20,000 when the device ships at the end of summer. There’s simply a ton of functionality here, so we definitely recommend checking out the studio-in-a-box in action in our hands-on video after the break for a bit more detail.

Gallery: Sony Anycast Touch hands-on

Filed under: Home Entertainment, Sony

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Visualized: Sony teases prototype 4K cameras and lenses at NAB

Posted by Gsurface on April 8, 2013 No comments

At its NAB 2013 press conference, Sony told us several times that it never stops thinking about the future. It’s fitting, then, that in addition to announcing pricing for two 4K sets, the company gave us a taste of what’s to come a few years down the line. A wide variety of lenses, including both current models and some prototypes, appeared on stage briefly — behind ropes, no less — and while we got no shortage of shots, specs, model names and any other particulars were strictly off-limits. Current optics included basic wide-angle and telephoto models, and of the two prototype cameras on display, one was of particular interest, due in no small part to its DSLR-like form-factor — this could perhaps become Sony’s version of the Canon EOS-1D C. Unfortunately, Sony says that these devices won’t make it to market for quite some time, so photogs will have to make do with this eye candy for now.

Gallery: Sony prototype 4K cameras and lenses

Filed under: Cameras, Sony

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Sony reveals pricing for its more budget-friendly 4K TVs

Posted by Gsurface on April 8, 2013 No comments

A 55- and 65-inch Ultra HD LED TVs will be available for order later this month for $ 4,999 and $ 6,999 respectively. [Read more]

CNET News

Sony releases pricing for 55-inch and 65-inch 4K Ultra HD LED TVs

Posted by Gsurface on April 8, 2013 No comments

Sony has just released the pricing for its 55-inch and 65-inch 4K Ultra HD LED TVs. The XBR-55X900A (55-inch version) will be available for $ 4,999 and the XBR-65X900A (65-inch version) will be available for $ 6,999. They’re much cheaper than the $ 25,000 84-inch 4K TV Sony was selling last year, but still certainly not affordable for

Sony FMP-X1 4K Media Player coming over the summer

Posted by Gsurface on April 8, 2013 No comments

Sony has just announced the pricing and release date for its 55-inch and 65-inch 4K Ultra HD LED TVs, however, to completely take advantage of the TVs’ beautiful displays, you’re going to need a media player capable of playing 4K media. That’s where the Sony FMP-X1 4K Media Player comes in. The FMP-X1 is set

Sony unveils Anycast Touch all-in-one production system at NAB

Posted by Gsurface on April 7, 2013 No comments

Sony unveils Anycast Touch allinone production system at NAB

In addition to announcing pricing for its 55- and 65-inch 4K TVs at its NAB press event, Sony unveiled updates to its Anycast studio-in-a-box. Sony has been offering its live broadcasting all-in-one for quite some time, but the Anycast Touch (AWS-750) unveiled today features several updates, including sliding dual touch displays. (The product looks more like a beefed-up Duo 11 than a bulky suitcase, which can’t be said about earlier models from the Anycast line.) A tilt-screen function lets you split audio- and video-editing functions between the two panels, and you’ll be able to bring up video sources just by tapping their thumbnails on-screen.

Aside from the new touchscreen design, the Anycast Touch offers all the A/V essentials: a video switcher, audio mixer, a special effects generator, an encoder and a scale converter. Video output tops out at 1080p with 10-bit processing, though other specs, such as display size, are TBA. Sony hasn’t discussed pricing yet, but it did reveal that the Anycast Touch will go on sale in September — we imagine additional details will surface before that far-off date.

Filed under: Home Entertainment, Sony

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Sony outs Lightning-friendly speaker dock in Japan, alarm clock and radio features in tow

Posted by Gsurface on April 6, 2013 No comments

Sony may have unveiled a slew of new audio products back at CES 2013, but the company has been relatively quiet when it comes to launching ones that are compatible with Apple’s novel Lightning connector. That being said, it looks as if folks in the Land of the Rising Sun will soon be able to pair their current-gen iOS device with a dock from the PlayStation maker, thanks to the recently announced SRS-GC11IP. Pictured above, this little 0.8W speaker isn’t loaded with fancy features like Bluetooth 4.0 or WiFi, but it does offer convenient functions such as an alarm clock and AM / FM radio — these, of course, go along with the ability to also play tunes straight from a Lighting-ready iDevice or, with the proper RDP-NWC11 model, a new-era Walkman and many different smartphones. Whether we’ll ever see the as-yet-unpriced tubular peripheral hit other markets, well, that still remains to be seen, with Sony only going so far as to listing it as “coming soon” on its Japanese website.

Gallery: Sony RDP-NWC11 speaker dock

Filed under: Misc, Peripherals, Sony

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Source: Sony Japan (1), (2)

Slickdeals’ best in tech for April 3rd: Sony Alpha SLT-A57K kit and 39-inch Sharp AQUOS HDTV

Posted by Gsurface on April 3, 2013 No comments

Looking to save some coin on your tech purchases? Of course you are! In this round-up, we’ll run down a list of the freshest frugal buys, hand-picked with the help of the folks at Slickdeals. You’ll want to act fast, though, as many of these offerings won’t stick around long.

In another HD-heavy installment of our twice-weekly gadget deals, a 39-inch Sharp HDTV and Yamaha home theater receiver look to outfit those living rooms. Of course, a few other options hit the list too — like a Sony Alpha A57 digital SLR. The full 5-pack of picks is waiting on the other side of the jump, complete with purchase links and the required coupon codes.

Filed under: Cameras, Home Entertainment, Portable Audio/Video

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Source: Slickdeals

HP Slate 7 and Sony Xperia Tablet Z delayed

Posted by Gsurface on March 29, 2013 No comments

We saw some pretty cool stuff at Mobile World Congress this year, and there definitely wasn’t a shortage of tablets. Two slates in particular that we got our hands on were the HP Slate 7 and the Sony Xperia Tablet Z. However, you’ll be waiting longer than expected, as both tablets have been delayed into

Hirai remakes Sony in first year as CEO, now must win consumers

Posted by Gsurface on March 28, 2013 No comments

In his first year as Sony CEO, Kazuo Hirai has remade the company, cutting thousands of jobs, selling off large businesses and core properties, and moving divisions around the world.
Computerworld News

Sony Xperia Z bug allows anyone to bypass the lock screen

Posted by Gsurface on March 26, 2013 No comments

Joining the likes of Apple and Samsung, Sony has had some issues with bugs providing various levels of security vulnerability, with another one surfacing today. Unfortunately for Sony Xperia Z owners, the method for bypassing its lockscreen is simple and straight-forward, and is another reminder not to presume lockscreens are always secure enough to keep

Sony Xperia SP and L take Exmor photography to the midrange

Posted by Gsurface on March 18, 2013 No comments

Sony has thrown out a pair of new Android smartphones, the Xperia SP and Xperia L, hitting the midrange with features like “Exmor RS for mobile” cameras as on the flagship Xperia Z. Of the two phones, each expected to arrive in Q2 2013, the Sony Xperia SP is the most interesting: a 4.6-inch 720p

Sony drops PS Vita 3G to $199 in some US Sony Stores

Posted by Gsurface on March 12, 2013 No comments

On February 18, Sony dropped the price of its PS Vita in Japan to 19,980 yen ($ 212) due to lackluster sales. According to the folks over at Joystiq, the price drop has reached parts of the US, with Sony Stores across the nation offering the PS Vita 3G for $ 199.97. The price is not reflected

PS Vita 3G price drops to $199 at certain Sony outlets

Posted by Gsurface on March 12, 2013 No comments

Just when we had gotten used to the idea that the PS Vita’s price drop in Japan would not be followed by a similar one here, Joystiq reports many Sony stores are offering the 3G bundle at a discount. While not all the stores contacted had the lowered $ 199 price, most of the ones that were still open at this hour did. We’re not seeing this price drop reflected in any other stores, and there’s no official announcement of any change, which only contributes to the confusion. Different store employees gave different explanations for the change, including a few indicating the model would be discontinued. The online shop still shows both the WiFi and 3G models for $ 249, so for now all we know is that if you are interested in buying, it would serve you well to look around for the lower price.

Filed under: Gaming, Sony

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Source: Joystiq

Sony Chairman Howard Stringer to retire in June

Posted by Gsurface on March 10, 2013 No comments

Nearly a year after the company replaced him as CEO, Stringer announces he will step down from the board of directors in June. [Read more]

CNET News

Sony Chairman, ex-CEO Howard Stringer to quit

Posted by Gsurface on March 9, 2013 No comments

Sony Chairman and former CEO Howard Stringer, who has been at the company since 1997, will be leaving the company in June.
Computerworld News

Sony uses supermodels to show off Xperia Z’s waterproof feature

Posted by Gsurface on March 9, 2013 No comments

In the modern world, consumers are barraged with a smorgasbord of products, which blur into a blinking, glowing, plastic haze after awhile. Companies need to put in some effort to catch potential buyers’ attention, something Sony has achieved alongside T-Mobile with its Xperia Z live advertisement in the Czech Republic, which features a supermodel using

Sony Chairman Howard Stringer to retire in June

Posted by Gsurface on March 9, 2013 No comments

After handing over the CEO reins of Sony to Kaz Hirai last year, current chairman Sir Howard Stringer is set to retire from his post at the firm’s shareholder meeting this June, reports the Financial Times. According to the outlet, Stringer mentioned at a Japan Society lecture that the transition will let him pursue “new opportunities I’ve been presented with lately.” Stringer didn’t divulge what those opportunities are, but we’re sure he’ll have more time on his hands to play with a certain game console.

Filed under: Misc, Sony

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Source: Financial Times

Sony announces unlocked Xperia ZL destined for US

Posted by Gsurface on March 5, 2013 No comments

Sony has confirmed that its Xperia ZL smartphone, similar to its Xperia Z, will be available in the United States. Even better, the 5-inch handset will be unlocked, and can be used with both T-Mobile and AT&T. The Xperia ZL will be available in three colors – red, white, and black – and could be

The Engadget Interview: Sony product marketing manager Stephen Sneeden at MWC 2013

Posted by Gsurface on March 4, 2013 No comments

After wowing us at CES with the Xperia Z, Sony enticed us at Mobile World Congress with the Xperia Tablet Z. Both devices combine top-notch specs with beautiful industrial design — pure rectangular forms with a mirror-like finish packaged in thin, light and water-resistant shells. We sat down with product marketing manager Stephen Sneeden in Barcelona to talk about these iconic products. We discussed the “omni-balance” design and the common user experience shared by both devices, which was spearheaded when Kuni Suzuki became Sony Mobile’s president and CEO. He explained that some of these design elements will likely be incorporated into future (non-mobile) products and that the both the Xperia Z and Tablet Z are premium, aspirational devices which will become reference points for more affordable models. We then chatted about the Tablet Z’s specs, in particular its impressive thickness (6.9mm / 0.27 inches) and best-in-class weight (495g / 0.99lbs). Mr. Sneeden mentioned the TV SideView app, an electronic programming guide with voice activation that’s available from the Play Store and takes advantage of the Tablet Z’s built-in IR blaster — he also pointed out that Sony’s Music Unlimited and Walkman Player apps will be fully integrated by summer. We touched upon a few other topics, including the Xperia Play and PlayStation Certified program for phones. Check out the full video interview after the break.

Filed under: Cellphones, Tablets, Mobile, Sony

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Sony unveils MDR-X05 on-ear compact headphones

Posted by Gsurface on March 2, 2013 No comments

Sony has unveiled the newest addition to its X line of headphones, the MDR-X05. These compact headphones feature over-the-ear swivel cups, and are boasted as offering excellent sound reproduction in an attractive, colorful body. Check out a couple pictures of the headset, as well as its specs and other particulars, after the jump. The X05

Sony unloads ‘Sony City Osaka’ building for $1.2 billion, will remain as lessee

Posted by Gsurface on February 28, 2013 No comments

In a bid to bolster its bottom line, Sony’s been selling properties like a desperate monopoly player, and the latest space on the board to go is the Sony City Osaka building for 111.1 billion yen ($ 1.2 billion). That follows the sale of its NY headquarters for a similar sum, and the move of its global HQ from Sweden to Tokyo. The Osaka building has been purchased by a Japanese holding company who will lease the building back to Sony for a period of at least five years, which seems to be the trend for electronics companies lately. The Japanese conglomerate said all the property deals are being made to “transform its business portfolio and reorganize its assets.” Translation? Sony needs the cash, natch.

Filed under: Misc, Sony

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Source: Sony

Sony joins 50x club with HX300, touts smallest 20x zoom WX300

Posted by Gsurface on February 25, 2013 No comments

Big zooms, high megapixels, and a thin rugged camera round out Sony’s 2013 Cyber-shots. [Read more]

CNET News

Sony Xperia Tablet Z hands-on: Slim is in

Posted by Gsurface on February 25, 2013 No comments

Sony’s track record with tablets has been mixed, but the Xperia Tablet Z is undoubtedly the company’s best play for the slate market so far. Slotting a bright, colorful 10.1-inch display running at a hefty 1920 x 1200 resolution into a waifishly-appealing 6.9mm thick chassis, the Xperia Tablet Z borrows its smartphone sibling’s water resistance,

Sony Xperia Z Review

Posted by Gsurface on February 24, 2013 No comments

Sony‘s problems in the smartphone arena aren’t unique – HTC, LG, and others are all struggling to compete with Samsung and Apple – but they’re nonetheless pressing, and the Xperia Z is the solution it hopes will address that. Piecing together top-tier specifications, like a huge Full HD display, 13-megapixel camera, and the sort of

PS4′s final look is unknown even to a Sony exec, but it won’t support the DualShock 3

Posted by Gsurface on February 22, 2013 No comments

There’s been some debate over the state of the PlayStation 4′s hardware when Sony declined to display the console itself at its PlayStation Meeting. As we’re quickly learning, the company had good reason to keep the box under wraps: it’s not quite done yet. Sony Computer Entertainment Japan President Hiroshi Kawano has revealed to 4Gamer that even he hasn’t seen the finished system, and he only saw the DualShock 4 the day before it went on stage. We wouldn’t worry about the design’s progress just yet, but the news hints that Sony’s timing on pulling it all together is much tighter than it was for the PS3 — although that’s not necessarily a bad thing.

Whatever the PS4 looks like in the end, we know it won’t support the DualShock 3. Perpetual font of wisdom (and Worldwide Studios President) Shuhei Yoshida has warned that the PlayStation Move is the only controller making the leap to the next generation. That’s not entirely surprising given the changes in button layout and the addition of some Move technology — Sony likely wants to set some expectations, and our existing game library won’t play on the PS4 as-is. The cutoff may still be disappointing for anyone who invested in a full set of gamepads for LittleBigPlanet sessions and has to once more start from scratch.

Filed under: Gaming, Sony

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Via: Joystiq, Kotaku

Source: 4Gamer (translated), IGN

Sony: PSN games won’t transfer to the PS4, nor will your game saves

Posted by Gsurface on February 21, 2013 No comments

It’s the morning after the night before, and at Sony’s follow-up briefing, Sony WorldWide Studios president Shuhei Yoshida has confirmed that current-generation PSN titles won’t be transferrable to the PlayStation 4. The company admitted last night that PS3 games wouldn’t be compatible with the latest console, but has now added that they will try to make games playable “in some form.” Because the architecture is so different between the PowerPC-based Cell processor used in the PS3 and the x86-based PlayStation 4, only games that don’t consume all of the consoles power with emulation will be brought across. The executive did mention that it’s a goal to offer server-side and cloud services to provide older games, but said that it’s for the “longer term.”

Developing…

Filed under: Gaming, Sony

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PlayStation 4 will be able to play used games, says Sony

Posted by Gsurface on February 21, 2013 No comments

Rumor and speculation has swirled for a bit now that Sony might block gamers from playing PS3 games on the newly-announced PlayStation 4. This was boosted by a Sony patent that was found discussing a disc and device ID that many feared indicated a method of blocking the use of used games. As it turns

Sony debuts new PlayStation 4 gaming console

Posted by Gsurface on February 21, 2013 No comments

Sony unveiled its next-generation gaming system, PlayStation 4, at an event in New York, saying the console will be part of a new ecosystem focused on hardware, software and “the fastest, most powerful gaming network.”

FOX News

Sony Announces the PS4

Posted by Gsurface on February 21, 2013 No comments

As many expected, Sony has officially announced the PS4 at the Sony PlayStation Meeting today. The new PlayStation will have an X86 processor, “state of the art” GPU, 8 GB of high-speed unified memory, and a hard drive for local storage. The PS4 will allow gamers to share their gameplay stream and even remotely take control of friend’s games. Along with the PS4, Sony has unveiled a new DualShock 4 controller which features a built-in touchpad at the center of the controller, and a built-in microphone jack.

Sony explains five key principles of the UI

Posted by Gsurface on February 20, 2013 No comments

Sony just announced the PlayStation 4 here at their PlayStation event in New York City, and before they’re showing off the actual console and demoing some of its features, they’re taking the time to explain what they call the five key principles of the user interface: Simple, Immediate, Social, Integrated, and Personalized. First off, Sony

Sony NEX-3N and Alpha A58 unveiled, heading to Europe this spring

Posted by Gsurface on February 20, 2013 No comments

Sony’s Alpha A58 and NEX-3N broke cover just a few days ago in rogue press shots, and now the firm’s European branch has made the duo official. With a 16.1-megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor, the NEX-3N picks up the banner as the outfit’s entry level mirrorless camera and packs a 3-inch LCD screen that can tilt up to 180 degrees. According to Sony, the NEX-3N is the smallest and lightest interchangeable lens camera with an APS-C sized sensor, gently tipping the scales at 269 grams. The shooter sports a pop-up flash, has its ISO notched up 16000, a revamped Bionz processor for noise reduction and even packs support for Sony’s Triluminos display tech. A price tag for the NEX-3N is still MIA, but it’s slated to hit Europe in March.

As for the translucent mirror-toting A58, it features a 20.1-megapixel Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor and a 2.6-inch, 460k-dot LCD with an adjustable angle. If you’d rather not compose shots with the LCD screen, however, the A58 also has an OLED viewfinder. When it comes to video, the device can record 1920×1080 footage in AVCHD. Hirai and Co.’s refreshed Bionz image processing engine makes an appearance in the camera as well. Come April, the A58 will be available in Europe with an as-of-yet unspecified price tag.

Itching for new lenses? Sony’s just dished out details on a trio of new A-mount glass and accessories (with some E-mount peripherals as well) that are headed for a March debut in Europe. For the complete lowdown on the cams, lenses and accessories, hit the jump for the press releases and galleries.

Gallery: Sony NEX-3N

Gallery: Sony A58

Gallery: Sony A-Mount lenses, A-mount and E-mount accessories

Show full PR text

Easy to handle, easy to use: the new NEX-3N by Sony puts pro-quality images in everyone’s reach 20 February 2013

Super-compact interchangeable lens APS-C camera weighs just 210g

No-fuss self-portraits with 180° tiltable LCD screen and zoom lever
Large Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor with 16.1 effective megapixels and high sensitivity, for detail-packed, low noise photos and Full HD video
Beautiful compositions made easy with new Auto Object Framing
Light, compact body with pop-up flash
Moving up from your fixed lens camera? Travel light with the compact, easy to use NEX-3N E-mount camera with built-in flash – an exciting introduction to the world of interchangeable lens photography by Sony.

Self-portraits have never been simpler with the NEX-3N, thanks to the camera’s easy-to-hold textured grip that fits reassuringly in the hand. The crisp, bright 7.5cm (3.0-type) LCD screen instantly flips through 180 degrees for fuss-free arm’s-length compositions. What’s more, a newly-added zoom lever on the camera body allows smooth, fingertip control of focal length with compatible lenses like the slim, light SELP1650 power zoom. Great for one-handed portrait framing, the zoom lever also adjusts digital zoom if you’re not using a powered lens.

All serious photographers know that great photos start with a great composition. Brand new Auto Object Framing helps you get better-looking, more professional results without effort. The camera judges what’s in the scene – one person, two people or even macro and moving objects – automatically cropping the shot to create more powerful, professionally-framed compositions.

Weighing approximately 210g, the NEX-3N is the world’s smallest, lightest interchangeable-lens camera with a large APS-C sized sensor*. Grabbing more light than the sensor in ordinary compact cameras, it’s the big sensor that’s key to exquisitely detailed photos and sparkling Full HD movies that stand out from the crowd. What’s more, it’s easy to create pro-style background blur effects with your collection of interchangeable E-mount lenses… just like you’d achieve with a bigger, bulkier DSLR camera.

The camera’s large sensor also boosts maximum sensitivity to ISO 16000. It’s complemented by an evolved BIONZ processor that uses the same area-specific noise reduction techniques featured on the acclaimed full-frame α99. Levels of noise reduction and sharpness are individually adjusted for different image areas. Even if you’re shooting in dim light, you’ll enjoy crisp, ultra-low noise handheld shots without needing flash.

The NEX-3N is also the first NEX interchangeable lens camera from Sony that offers support for new “TRILUMINOS Colour”. You’ll experience a dramatically expanded palette of vivid, ultra-realistic colours when videos and still images are played back on any BRAVIA TV with support for “TRILUMINOS Display”.

There’s now a range of thirteen high-quality E-mount lenses to realise the immense creative potential of the NEX-3N. Choose from telephoto, zoom, wide angle, macro lenses by Sony and Carl Zeiss to suit any shooting situation. Every model blends superb optical performance with elegant looks to complement your E-mount camera. There’s also a full range of coordinating accessories by Sony, from style-matching carry cases and straps to spare batteries.

The light, compact new NEX-3N interchangeable lens camera from Sony is available in Europe from March 2013.

* Among interchangeable-lens cameras with an APS-C sensor and pop-up flash, as of Feb 2013.

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Never miss the moment: the new α58 from Sony

Digital SLT camera with Translucent Mirror Technology

Capture fine detail with new 20.1 effective megapixels Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor
Grab fast-moving action with speedy 8fps* shooting and new Lock-on Autofocus
Shoot and view with confidence through new OLED Tru-Finder
Compose like a pro with new Auto Object Framing

* In Tele-zoom Continuous Advance Priority AE mode

For life’s spontaneous moments – catch all the split-second excitement with the new α58 interchangeable lens camera from Sony. With Translucent Mirror technology for speedy shooting with fast, accurate autofocus, it’s the must-have choice for grabbing those once-in-a-lifetime picture opportunities. Even if you’re new to interchangeable lens photography, you’ll enjoy image quality that effortlessly exceeds your point-and-shoot compact camera, plus features you’d expect from a far higher-priced DSLR.

At the heart of the α58 is a brand new Exmor APS HD CMOS sensor with an extremely high resolution of (approx.) 20.1 effective megapixels. It’s teamed with an improved BIONZ image processing engine for exceptionally detailed, low-noise stills and Full HD video, plus an extra-wide sensitivity range of ISO 100 to 16000.

Pick from the choice of 35 interchangeable A-mount lenses (including two tele-converters) and experience flawless images in virtually any lighting conditions, from dimly-lit interiors to atmospheric twilight scenes. Even if you’re shooting handheld, SteadyShot INSIDE keeps pictures crisp and stable, letting you shoot with confidence at slower shutter speeds or higher zoom settings where wobbles are often a worry.

Unlike ordinary DSLR cameras, SLT cameras by Sony use Translucent Mirror technology that directs light onto the main image sensor as well as a separate autofocus sensor. This means that subjects stay sharply focused at all times as you compose scenes with the tilt-angle LCD or through the high-resolution, high-contrast OLED Tru-Finder. And with no moving mirror to slow you down, you’ll enjoy non-stop live image preview during speedy burst shooting or while you’re recording Full HD video.

The α58 is your ideal partner for grabbing the action as it happens – like sports, wildlife or spur-of-the-moment fun with friends and family. Tele-zoom Continuous Advance Priority AE mode brings that decisive moment closer with a high-speed burst of sharp images at 8 frames per second. The high-performance 15-point AF system now features Lock-on Autofocus with speedier, more accurate subject tracking. So now you can capture the athletic grace of a gymnast or animals in the wild with a burst of crisply-focused images, even if your subject’s moving.

Featured on previous models, Auto Portrait Framing has now evolved into even more versatile Auto Object Framing – helping you get better-looking, more professional results without effort. The α58 judges what’s in the scene – one person, two people, even moving objects or macro subjects – tracking, framing and cropping the shot to create powerful, professionally-framed compositions. Thanks to Pixel Super Resolution Technology by Sony, cropped images preserve the same resolution as the original exposure.

Instantly selectable from the mode dial, Picture Effect lets you pick from a palette of 15 artistic ‘in-camera’ treatments, like Toy Camera, Mono and Partial Colour.

Framing, focusing and viewing your shots is a pleasure through the new OLED Tru-Finder. This bright, high resolution electronic viewfinder accurately shows the results of adjusting camera settings in real time. Instantly see the result of adjusting exposure compensation, aperture, ISO, white balance, Picture Effect and other parameters before you shoot… not after. It’s a great way to compose the perfect shot with confidence.

The α58 is the first-ever A-mount interchangeable lens camera from Sony that offers support for new ‘TRILUMINOS Colour’. You’ll experience a dramatically expanded palette of vivid, ultra-realistic colours when videos and still images are played back on any BRAVIA TV with support for ‘TRILUMINOS Display’.

The new α58 interchangeable lens camera from Sony with Translucent Mirror technology is available from April 2013.

- Ends -

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Sony adds three A-mount lenses, new A-mount and E-mount accessories

Full-frame G Lens 70-400mm telephoto zoom; Full-frame Carl Zeiss Planar 50mm F1.4; DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 standard zoom; compact add-on flash and remote commander

New-generation 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II telephoto zoom – with 4x faster autofocus and improved optical performance
Full-frame, wide-aperture, single-focal-length Carl Zeiss Planar T* 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM – high-end image quality with renowned resolving power and contrast
Light, compact, newly-styled DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM II standard 3x zoom lens – designed for APS-C cameras
HVL-F20M flash – space-saving design with wireless control and bounce flash
RM-VPR1 wired remote – easily control shutter release, video start/stop and zoom
Sony extends the range of A-mount interchangeable lenses with three new models to satisfy the most demanding enthusiasts and photo professionals.

The 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II and Carl Zeiss Planar T* 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM lenses complement the impressive imaging capabilities of Sony’s full-frame α99 SLT (Translucent Mirror) camera. The DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM II is a light, compact 3x zoom that’s an ideal partner for A-mount cameras with APS-C sensors.

They’re joined by a compact new on-camera flash and a wired remote that’s ideal for advanced shooting.

“70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II” telephoto zoom

Sony’s G lens line-up is strengthened for 2013 with the revised 70-400mm F4-5.6 G SSM II. Ideal for capturing wildlife and action-packed sports, the upgraded super-telephoto zoom builds further on the premium performance of its predecessor with enhanced optics and faster, more responsive autofocus. Thanks to a new LSI drive circuit, autofocus speed of the SSM (Super Sonic Wave Motor) is around four times quicker than before. Teamed with enhanced tracking AF, the upgraded lens is now even more suitable for capturing stills and Full HD video of fast-moving subjects.

While its optical design is carried over from the previous-generation model, the new-generation lens features Sony’s proprietary Nano AR Coating on optical surfaces. Offering around five times the efficiency of conventional anti-reflection coatings, this advanced technology reduces flare and ghosting for exceptionally high-contrast images.

Carl Zeiss “Planar T* 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM”

The new Planar T* 50mm F1.4 ZA SSM joins the existing Distagon 24mm, Planar 85mm and Sonnar 135mm in the A-mount range of prime length optics by Carl Zeiss. Offering a fixed 50mm focal length and extra-bright F1.4 aperture, the premium lens is an ideal choice for quality-critical portraiture and low-light shooting.

Featuring 8 elements in 5 groups with two aspherical elements, the brand new optical design is optimised for superb results with Sony’s full-frame α99. Exceptional resolving power and contrast at all apertures are teamed with smooth, quiet autofocusing and a rear-focus system that maintains the same lens body length during AF. The dust- and moisture-resistant design extends the appeal of the new lens to a wide range of outdoor shooting applications.

“DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM II” zoom

Boasting second-generation styling, this new lens succeeds the popular DT 18-55mm F3.5-5.6 SAM that was introduced in 2011. The light, compact 3x zoom lens covers a frequently-used range of focal lengths from wide-angle 18mm to standard 55mm (35mm camera equivalent range: 27-82.5mm). While retaining the same smooth AF motor (SAM) as its predecessor, newly-designed rear lens elements suppresses flare and ghost, while mechanical elements have been upgraded for more positive, comfortable operation.

New accessories for Sony cameras and camcorders

The HVL-F20M is a space-saving, easy to carry new flash for Multi Interface Shoe mounted cameras, that’s ideal for brightening up portraits, interiors and dimly-lit scenes. Despite its compact size, it’s packed with pro-style features like wireless control for fuss-free multi flash set-ups, simple bounce operation and Auto White Balance compensation for more accurate, natural-looking white balance. It’s refreshingly easy to use: just raise the flash head to switch on… then turn off again by lowering when the flash isn’t needed.

Compatible with a growing range of ‘α’ A-mount and E-mount, Cyber-shot[TM] and Handycam(R) models that feature the versatile Multi Terminal interface, the RM-VPR1 wired remote commander features handy controls for zoom and video recording start/stop. It also includes a shutter lock function that’s ideal for long-exposure ‘bulb’ shooting with ‘α’ cameras. The remote comes supplied with two cables. One is for use with Multi Terminal-equipped cameras/camcorders, while the other allows simple shutter release with ‘α’ A-mount cameras that only include a REMOTE terminal.

Please see http://www.sony.co.uk/hub/lenses for full details on new lens and accessories.

The new lenses and accessories will start to become available in Europe from March 2013.

Filed under: Cameras, Sony

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Source: Sony (1), (2)

Sony trims Vita price, adds new color

Posted by Gsurface on February 18, 2013 No comments

In Japan, Sony slices the price of the PlayStation Vita and also introduces a new color for the powerful gaming device. [Read more]

CNET News

Sony looks back on PlayStation’s past with an eye on its future (video)

Posted by Gsurface on February 18, 2013 No comments

If Sony doesn’t announce the PS4 at Wednesday’s blockbuster press conference, then this reminiscipackage will seem oddly out of place. The company has cut together three videos charting the history of the console from its (not so) humble beginnings in 1993 to the present day. If you’d like to wistfully remember the genesis of the console that’s probably still lurking beneath your TV, head on past the break.

Filed under: Gaming, Sony

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Sony Exercising Its Acquisition of GaiKai, Plans To Stream Games To PS4

Posted by Gsurface on February 16, 2013 No comments

dmfinn writes “With less than 5 days until the reported PS4 launch event, new details are emerging regarding some of the console’s next-gen capabilities. Since last June, Sony has been quietly sitting on its $ 380 million dollar acquisition of Gaikai, a cloud based gaming company. The Wall Street Journal, among other sources, is now reporting that the PS4 will have GaiKai’s cloud-based gaming technology directly integrated, thought it is unclear exactly what types of games will be available for streaming. Back in June, a rumor circulated that Sony was planning to use the technology to support backwards compatibility with PS2 and PS1 games, though no further details have arisen regarding whether or not the new console will be able to play previous generation games. It appears that Sony will most likely be using the service to stream PS3 and indie games to the console, as the current technology only supports 720p, not high enough quality for blockbuster games. Constantly streaming interactive graphics, even if only at 720p, will still require a fast internet connection. Services like OnLive have struggled in the past due to the large amount of bandwidth they require, and many consumers complained of laggy connections and horrendous graphics. There is no word yet regarding the features of the games being streamed, including whether or not they will support online or local multiplayer.”

WSJ: Sony will use Gaikai streaming tech to play PS3 games on the PS4

Posted by Gsurface on February 16, 2013 No comments

We’re just a few days away from Sony’s February 20th “see the future of” PlayStation event where we expect to see the next edition of its home console, and the rumor mill is buzzing. The latest one tonight comes from the Wall Street Journal, with a report that connects Sony’s $ 380 million purchase of cloud gaming service Gaikai last year with a method to provide backwards compatibility on the PlayStation 4. The WSJ reports Sony has been “investing heavily” in preparing Gaikai for an influx of PS4-equipped gamers, while also developing better cameras for its Move and the DualShock+touchpad controllers we’ve seen recently.

What’s not revealed however, is any potential pricing plan, or whether cloud games will work users existing cloud saves. While buying fully digital copies of games we already own is less than appealing, if Sony can implement something like the abandoned UMD-to-PSP Go “good will” plan, then there may be benefits for all. In the last gen Sony used hardware, then software and then nothing at all for backwards compatible gaming, while Microsoft went all software — we’ll see how it balances out this time around.

Filed under: Gaming, HD, Sony

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Source: Wall Street Journal