Sony’s long-awaited Bravia 3D HDTVs have just landed over at SonyStyle starting from just $2,099.99 for their 40-inch HX800 right up to their full-blown 60-inch LX900 model priced at $4,999.99. All sets still require the use of glasses to achieve the 3D effect as we’re still waiting on commercially available glasses-free 3D tech. There are some impressive options to choose from however including Wi-Fi (either built-in or ready) to stream content, Internet video and DLNA certification and of course, a choice of refresh rates.

There are five models that fall into the 3D Ready category that require a sync transmitter as well as a set of glasses before you can enjoy your three-dimentional action; they include the 46 and 52-inch HX909s and the 40, 46 and 55-inch HX800s priced between $2,099.99 and $3,399.99.

The remaining two higher-end models – the 52 and 60-inch LX900 series sets – are ready to go with built-in 3D and are priced at $3,999.99 and $4,999.99 respectively.

All seven models are available now (though apparently in limited quantities) direct from SonyStyle.com.

Sony yesterday announced their new VAIO X Series Notebooks which the company claims are the world’s lightest, thanks to a carbon-fiber body construction. The 1.6-pound featherweight notebook is a mere 0.2-pounds heavier than Sony’s diminutive VAIO P netbook and is ultra-thin too, measuring a tiny 0.55-inches thick across its entire length.

Fitted with 11.1-inch scratch-resistant widescreen LCDs and running on 2GHz Intel Atom processors, the VAIO X Series also includes Intel GMA500 graphics, 2GB RAM, a 64GB SSD and the upcoming Windows 7 as standard. Battery life is relatively low at just 3.5 hours, but every model comes equipped with a second extended battery (similar to HP’s Envy 13) that also doubles as a tilted base for easier typing and boosts operating time to a whopping 14 hours.

Equipped with built-in Verizon Wireless Mobile Broadband and real-time GPS functionality for turn-by-turn maps without an internet connection, the VAIO X also includes Bluetooth, WiFi b/g/n, a built-in camera and microphone, an SD card slot and Memory Stick Pro reader (with MagicGate), 2 x USB ports, a headphone jack, VGA, gigabit ethernet and a multi-touch trackpad that recognizes pinch, flip and rotate commands.

The VAIO X Series measures a mere 10.95 x 0.55 x 7.29 inches and is available now from Sony on pre-order starting at $1,299.99. If gold is your thing, there is also a Limited Edition Signature Collection version that bumps your SSD capacity to 128GB and the price tag to $1,499.99. Both models begin shipping next month.

Press release

X MARKS THE SPOT: SONY DELIVERS WORLD’S LIGHTEST NOTEBOOK
New VAIO X Series Merges 3G Mobile Broadband and Long Battery Life for Anywhere Computing

NEW YORK, Oct. 8, 2009 – Redefining the notebook category once again, Sony today took the wraps off the world’s lightest notebook— the VAIO® X Series.

Housed in a lightweight carbon-fiber chassis, the X Series weighs just1.6 pounds (with standard battery) and is just over a half-inch thin— roughly the width of a cell phone.

It features a 16:9 aspect ratio which means you get a wider workspace—all packed into a compact 11.1-inch (diagonal) footprint. And not only is the scratch-resistant LCD display durable, it also provides brilliant picture quality with 100 percent color saturation and improved brightness, thanks to its LED backlight technology.

The X Series is also supplied with both a standard and super-extended capacity battery, delivering extra-long battery life for day-long productivity—up to 3.5 hours for the standard battery and up to 14 hours for the super-extended capacity battery.

“It’s one thing to make a notebook thin but when you consider the fact that the X Series also boasts industry-leading battery life and wireless WAN— you now have a game changer— altering the way people use and think about their PC,” said Mike Abary, senior vice president of the VAIO business group at Sony.

The unit’s extremely thin profile alone is enough to turn heads but its real elegance is found in its subtle details. Grooved edging traces its perimeter while a seamless sheet of lightly brushed aluminum frames the keyboard and covers the palmrest.

Its uniquely configured keyboard is designed with spacing between the keys for a comfortable typing experience. And the keystroke is firm and solid creating a user-friendly touch and feel that makes finding the keys more intuitive.

The unit’s touchpad features a multi-touch functionality commonly associated with touch-enabled smartphones. This means that you can zoom in and out, flip through pictures, rotate items clockwise and counterclockwise, and scroll vertically and horizontally without ever touching your mouse.

The X Series integrates wireless 3G Mobile Broadband technology provided by Verizon Wireless Mobile Broadband Built-In, Wi-Fi (802.11n), and Bluetooth® wireless technologies—so you will always be connected. For 3G Mobile Broadband technology, a separate Verizon service subscription is required.

The model also incorporates real-time GPS functionality, making it easy to find restaurants, hotels or special sites of interest. Destinations can be found by simply typing in an address or keyword and then following the turn-by-turn directions. It even includes estimated drive times to let you know how far you are from a destination (United States or Canada only). No Internet connection is required in the United States or Canada.

The X Series incorporates a solid state drive (SSD) used in place of the spinning hard disk drive found in most computers. This provides a rapid boot-up and quicker access to applications, while reducing the risk of hard drive damage—an ideal feature for those on-the-go who are in situations where sudden movements are common. It will come with Windows® 7 Home Premium operating system.

The VAIO X Series notebook will come in two colors, black and gold, and start at about $1,300. It is available for pre-orders today online at www.sonystyle.com/pr/x. It will also be sold at Sony Style® stores and select retailers around the country starting next month.

Sources:
Sony (Press Release) and Sony Style
Via: Electronista

Sony today unveiled their new A850 Digital SLR as part of an update to the company’s Alpha camera lineup. This new addition packs most of the functionality of Sony’s flagship A900 model, but at a more affordable price – sporting a 35mm full-frame Exmor 24.6-megapixel CMOS sensor for a larger capture area and dual BIONZ processors for faster performance.

The only discernible difference between the new A850 and the A900 is a reduction is viewfinder coverage from 100 percent to 98 percent, which is evidently enough for Sony to be able to shave a huge $700 from the price.

The Alpha A850 includes a 3-inch LCD (921k pixels) with 270ppi photo-quality resolution, which combined with an Intelligent Preview Function that allows you to see the effects of manual adjustments before taking a shot, should enable a greater level of control and efficiency with your shooting.

With a fast and precise 9-point autofocus system with 10 assist points, SteadyShot INSIDE in-camera image stabilization and 0.74x viewfinder magnification, the A850 even breaks from Sony’s tradition of only supporting proprietary media – sporting two card slots to accommodate both CompactFlash and MemoryStick Duo chips.

This fully-featured pro-DSLR includes a high-capacity lithium-ion battery that will get as many as 880 shots per charge, plus its precise 1 percent charge level monitoring will ensure you don’t (unexpectedly) run out of juice.

The A850 is compatible with all official accessories made for the A900 and is compatible with all of Sony’s A-Series lenses, including their premium full-frame Carl Zeiss optics.

Sony’s A850 DSLR camera is protected by a rugged, yet lightweight, magnesium-alloy shell and is available now on pre-order from Amazon.com for $1,999.99 (body only). Shipping is scheduled to commence in September.

Press Release:

27 August 2009 14:00
Full-frame DSLR shooting at a real-world price : New α850 with 24.6 megapixels and pro-style features

• Full-frame 24.6 effective megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor and dual BIONZ processors for detail-packed, low-noise images with high sensitivity up to ISO 6400 (with expanded ISO range)
• Bright optical glass pentaprism viewfinder with 98% coverage
• SteadyShot INSIDE offers up to 4.0 steps anti-shake performance with all lenses
• Photo quality (921k dot) 3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD
• Fast, high-accuracy 9-point AF with 10 focus assist points

The new DSLR-α850 from Sony offers serious photo enthusiasts a step up to the creative possibilities of full-frame imaging at a compelling price.
Ruggedly built for unflinching pro-style handling and performance, the α850 shares the same 24.6 megapixel sensor and virtually all features of the flagship DSLR-α900, introduced last year. Like its full-frame sibling, the α850 fully exploits the creative possibilities of the α family of lenses that includes premium full-frame optics from Carl Zeiss, plus five high-performance G Lens models.
At the heart of the α850 is a full frame 24.6 effective megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor that captures flawless, detail-packed images with vibrant, lifelike colours and fine textures.
The purity of high-resolution image data captured by the full-frame sensor is optimised by two-stage noise reduction in both analogue and digital domains. Noise reduction is first applied as the full-frame sensor converts light to electronic signals. Dual BIONZ image engines process large amounts of digital data, applying finely-tuned noise reduction during image processing to deliver pictures with extremely high level of sharpness and minimal noise level. This combination of high native sensor resolution and powerful noise control techniques ensures superlative image quality, even at high sensitivity settings up to a maximum ISO 6400 (with expanded ISO range).
The camera’s optical glass pentaprism viewfinder aids accurate shot composition, offering an extremely bright view with minimal distortion and an approximate 98% field coverage.
Serious enthusiasts will also prize the camera’s fast, high-accuracy autofocus system that provides excellent framing freedom while making it easier to achieve optimum focus with moving subjects. The 9-point AF system is supplemented by 10 focus assist points to assist subject detection, improved out-of-focus detection to reduce focus hunting and a dedicated F2.8 sensor for enhanced AF accuracy with wide aperture lenses.
Shots can be viewed on the large, high contrast 3.0-inch Xtra Fine LCD that offers an exceptionally high resolution (921k dot) for critical evaluation – even outdoors or in bright ambient light.
For greater creative control, an Intelligent Preview function indicates the effects of exposure, white balance, and D-Range Optimiser adjustments prior to shooting. This Preview is invaluable when composing complex scenes that may typically combine multiple light sources with different colour temperatures.
Touching the Fn button switches the display to Quick Navi mode, allowing convenient one-handed adjustment of key shooting parameters. A secondary backlit LCD panel on the top of the camera body gives useful confirmation of major settings, even when the main LCD is turned off.
In common with all other DSLR cameras from Sony, the α850 features SteadyShot INSIDE. This in-body optical stabilisation system delivers up to 4 steps of anti-shake correction with all compatible lenses, opening up even greater creative possibilities when shooting handheld.
Like its full-frame sibling, the α850 is ruggedly built for dependable performance in gruelling conditions with a high-tensile aluminium chassis and all-magnesium alloy body shell. Viewfinder, card slots, controls and other sensitive areas are protected from dust and moisture by rubber seals. In addition, an anti-dust system guards the full-frame sensor from the effects of dust entering the body during lens exchange.
The supplied high-capacity InfoLITHIUM rechargeable Battery Pack (NP-FM500H) delivers power for up to 880 shots (approx.) per charge. Battery levels can be monitored in precise 1% increments, cutting uncertainty about remaining shooting time.
The camera can be connected to your BRAVIA or any HD TV (requires optional HDMI cable) for a big-screen view of your shots. On-screen image quality is optimised for superbly lifelike reproduction on BRAVIA models supporting PhotoTV HD. On-screen playback can be controlled via an optional wireless remote commander (RMT-DSLR1).
The α850 is fully compatible with the range of official accessories by Sony for the flagship α900.
The choice of full-frame lenses to complement the α850 is enhanced with the new 28-75mm F2.8 SAM. This compact, easy-to-carry lens is ideal for photo enthusiasts looking to add a bright, general purpose zoom to their collection of full-frame optics. Delivering excellent imaging quality, this zoom offers a wide F2.8 aperture. Ideal for day-to-day shooting tasks, its bright maximum aperture makes the 28-75mm F2.8 SAM particularly valuable for interior scenes and available-light portraits.
Also, with Memory Stick at the heart of the Sony alpha, you have every advantage. The advanced Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX (4GB, 8GB, 16GB or 32GB) is the perfect tool for continuous shooting mode, with the ideal combination of massive storage capacity and blisteringly fast operation. Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX 32GB will never miss the key shot because the number of pictures taken in 1 min is approx 160* photos (in RAW+JPEG/L (24M)).
Delivered with USB Adaptor, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo HX 32GB is ideal for users who want to transfer data in high speed: approx. 660[1] pictures in L (24M) size at RAW+JPEG mode in 26 minutes.
The DSLR-α850 full-frame digital SLR camera is available from September 2009 and the 28-75mm lens will be available from November 2009.

[1] these figures are measured under certain conditions

Sources:
Sony (Press Release) and Amazon.com

Sony yesterday announced a new slimmer and lighter version of their PlayStation 3 gaming console, which will come fitted with a larger and easily upgradable 120GB HDD. The thinner, shorter and lighter unit – known as the PS3 Slim – also features a slimmed down price tag, losing a hundred dollars to come in at an attractive $299.99.

With a new textured look, the PS3 Slim comes fitted with near-identical hardware as the model it is replacing, save for the new 120GB HDD – which offers twice the storage space over its predecessor. To achieve the new 32-percent smaller and 36-percent lighter footprint, the internals of the Slim have been completely redesigned and thanks to a 34-percent lower power consumption, the new model now also runs cooler and quieter.

The new PS3 doesn’t include a stand like the previous model, but Sony will be selling them for $24 if you just have to go vertical. The hard drive can be replaced/upgraded without voiding the warranty in a new simplified process – simply remove two screws and slide the drive out from the front.

The system includes a free PlayStation Network membership, built-in WiFi, Blu-ray player, a single Dual Shock controller and USB cable for charging it, plus a composite AV cable and AC power adapter are in the box.

The new PS3 Slim is available now on pre-order from Amazon.com for $299.99 and can also be picked up from Amazon.co.uk for £249.99. Shipping will commence on September 1, 2009.

Sources:
Sony PSN (Press Release) and Amazon.com
Via: Crave and Engadget

The PSP Go is Sony’s recently announced portable gaming system, sporting a sliding display panel, 16GB flash memory, built-in Bluetooth support and a crisp 3.8-inch (480 x 272 pixel) LCD display. Set for a US release on October 1, the PSP Go will ditch support for Sony’s Universal Media Disc (UMD) in favor of downloadable games and online entertainment via the PlayStation Network.

With a weight of 5.6oz (158g), the PSP Go is designed with true portability in mind, weighing 43 percent less than the previous PSP-3000. For connectivity the Go also includes WiFi, USB 2.0 and a Memory Stick Micro slot.

Despite the wait for the official fall release, you can secure yourself a PSP Go on preorder now at Amazon.com for $249.99.

Sources:
PR Newswire (Press Release) | PSP Go (Product Page) | Amazon.com

A Microsoft Surface-like device has…well…surfaced in a Sony patent app titled “Image forming device, having an ejection tray, and a display is mounted to a cover.” The device is essentially a flatbed inkjet printer with a large touchscreen display, that wirelessly downloads photos when a digital camera is placed on top. Once the download is complete, users can manipulate their images directly on the touchscreen and print them off, all through the one device.

Sony’s invention is described as being equipped with storage for printer paper on the inside, beneath the hinged lid (see image below). This would presumably allow access to the internals of the printer also, to allow the changing of ink cartridges and clearing of paper jams etc.

It must be noted that while the wireless image transfer is certainly an attractive feature, it would not function unless you had a suitably equipped camera with a transmitter and receiver. This could be easily achieved by Bluetooth, but is far from common in current cameras and knowing Sony, would more likely be some proprietary format/protocol.

Seeing as all of the technology in this patent app already exists, it does not seem like it would be difficult to produce. Whether or not Sony will decide to go ahead with production in the near future is doubtful however, considering the clobbering Japan’s tech companies are currently facing. But who knows? Maybe sometime down the track.

Sources:
USPTO (Patent Application)
Via: Engadget and Electronic Pulp

Sony today unveiled a remarkably small, light and rather attractive Netbook called the Vaio P Series at the 2009 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas. Only slightly larger than an office envelope, the ultra-portable weighs a mere 680g (1.4lbs) and features an 8-inch LED-backlit display, capable of a high 1600 x 768 pixel resolution.

The P Series is not at all light on spec either, packing a 1.33GHz Intel processor, up to 60GB Hard Drive or 128GB SSD, 2GB RAM, WiFi, GPS, Bluetooth, a webcam and a microphone. The ultra-portable includes a full keyboard and opts for a nipple pointer / mouse nub over a trackpad to save on space. It is rated at 4-hours of battery life too which is quite an achievement.

The Vaio P runs on Vista and apparently includes support for external displays, for when you need to view a file quickly on a larger screen. It features an “Instant Mode” that allows you to use a web browser, check email and view photos without waiting for Windows to boot.

Sony’s Vaio P Series will start at a rather pricey $899.99, which doesn’t come close to cheaper ultra-portables like NEC’s LaVie Light, but it does come better equipped and well…it’s a Sony after all.

The P-Series is available now on pre-order over at Sony, along with lots of product images and promotional material.

UPDATE:
The Vaio P is now available at Amazon.com for the same price or Amazon.co.uk for £789.84.

Sources:
Sony and Telegraph and Engadget

Sony have announced their 40-inch KDL-40ZX1, which takes the title of the world’s thinnest LCD TV with a thickness of only 9.9mm. Not quite the 0.3mm of their OLED, but getting there. The 1080p set features 120hz MotionFlow technology for better quality fast-motion sequences as well as Sony’s Bravia Engine 2.

The ZX1 weighs in at only 12.2kg/26lbs and comes with a separate wireless HD base station which includes S-Video, VGA, 3 HDMI and 2 component ports. It also features ports for an AV mouse, LAN, USB and a standard phone line.

The base station can transmit up to 1080i images over a 5GHz channel which is rumored to be WHDM. Apparently, menus will be controlled via a Playstation-style cross-media interface.

The set will be available in the standard black and grey as well as bordeaux red and navy blue that aims to emulate the appearance of traditional Japanese lacquer painting. Pricing and country specific availability will be made public in September for a November release.

Sources:
Sony Japan (translated) and SonyInsider
Via: Gizmodo

Sony Ericsson has today announced that it will release a limited-edition C902 Cybershot phone, as used by 007 in the upcoming ‘Quantum Of Solace’ Bond flick. The phone will also feature movie extras to help indulge our spy fantasies.

The phone will be a Titanium Silver edition of the C902 released earlier this year and will come pre-loaded with extras such as a spy game, interviews with the stars, screen-savers, wallpapers and a trailer of the film.

The features are much the same as the original C902 with a 5MP camera, face detection, photo flash and a feature called BestPic which can take 9 rapid fire photos of a moving object – increasing your chances of a decent shot.

Sony Ericsson has slated the phone for a November release worldwide but could be earlier if they want to get in before the film’s launch on October 31st.

Sadly, there’s no word on the SeaBreacher or Nail Watch making it into the film.

Sources:
Press Release
Via: Engadget and Gizmodo

Sony updated its media center lineup today with two new models, the VGX-TP1D and VGX-TP1DQ/B. Both will feature major improvements including a 2 Ground Digital TV Tuner and better video recording capabilities.

Both models come with updated hardware including an Intel Core 2 Duo T8100, 2GB RAM, a GeForce Digital 8400M GT graphics card, integrated WiFi, four USB ports, 4-pin FireWire, TV tuner, HDMI / VGA outputs, multi-card reader and a wireless keyboard.

The VGX-TP1D comes with a 320GB hard drive and a dual-layer DVD writer while the more expensive VGX-TP1DQ/B beefs up that spec with a 500GB hard drive and a Blu-ray burner.

Both of these new media centers will be available in Japan in about two weeks for an asking price of ¥150,000 ($1,392) and ¥200,000 ($1,856), respectively.

Sources:
Akihabara News
Engadget