Samsung launches NX300 Wi-Fi enabled camera with 20MP sensor and optional 45mm 3D lens

Samsung has thrown down the latest Compact System Camera in its NX range, the NX300, which packs a 20.3 million pixel sensor and built in Wi-Fi.

Boasting a newly designed APS-C CMOS sensor, the camera serves up a wide ISO range of ISO 100 – 25600, backed by a new Hybrid Auto Focus (AF) system for delivering fast, accurate phase and contrast detection.

Shutter speeds can be as swift as 1/6000 sec, while a super-speedy 8.6fps shooting rate should ensure that everything that moves gets captured, while a tilting 3.31 inch AMOLED tilting touchscreen lets users grab those arty angles.

Lurking inside its gizzards can be found a  DRIMe IV imaging engine promising improved colour performance and greater noise reduction, and the NX300 supports full 1080p HD video capture in both 2D and 3D formats.

To record 3D movies, consumers must first shell out for Samsung’s new 3D-capable f/1.8 45mm lens, which will also work on older cameras, but only in 2D – and it’s not cheap at $600.

The NX300 is set to be made available in black or white and priced at an upmarket $750 with a 20-50mm kits lens and a freebie copy of Adobe Lightroom lobbed in to sweeten the deal.

Shipping is expected to start in March this year.

Here’s the full press release:

Samsung NX300 Combines Speed, Performance and Connectivity for Perfect Shooting in Every Moment

Samsung 45mm F1.8 2D/3D lens is the World’s first one-lens 3D system, capable of capturing both stills and 1080p Full HD video in perfect 3D quality

RIDGEFIELD PARK, N.J. – January 3, 2013 – Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd, a global leader in digital media and convergence technologies, today announced the launch of the NX300, the new flagship model in its successful NX series. The NX300 once again raises the bar for compact system cameras (CSC), delivering an outstanding combination of features, functionality and style for perfect shooting in every moment. Samsung also announced the new NX 45mm F1.8 2D/3D lens, the first one-lens 3D system capable of capturing both still images and full HD movies in perfect 3D quality.

Myoung Sup Han, Senior Vice President and Head of the Digital Imaging Business, Samsung Electronics, commented: “Since its launch in 2010, the Samsung NX System has become synonymous with innovation and design, making the best digital imaging technology available to everyone without compromising on style. The NX300 builds even further on this illustrious heritage. Not only does it deliver incredible speed and accuracy through advanced photographic features, but it is truly built around the user, with upgraded SMART Camera functions making shooting and sharing both easy and seamless. We are also very proud to introduce the first one-lens 3D system alongside the NX300, opening up a whole new world of 3D photography and video recording for consumers everywhere.”

Perfect shooting

Central to the NX300’s outstanding imaging performance is its brand new 20.3 Megapixel APS-CMOS sensor, capable of capturing high quality detailed. Images boast sharp, life-like colors and are crisp and clear in all light conditions. The wide ISO range (ISO100-25600) further improves performance, letting users capture beautifully balanced images in even the darkest conditions. A brand new Hybrid Auto Focus (AF) system also delivers fast, accurate phase and contrast detection, while the 1/6000 sec shutter speed and 8.6fps continuous shooting mode ensure you never miss a moment.

The Samsung’s unique in-house developed DRIMe IV imaging engine provides outstanding developments in speed, and image quality. The DRIMe IV engine enables better color reproduction and greater noise reduction, as well as support for full 1080p HD video capture in both 2D and 3D (when combined with Samsung’s new 45mm 2D/3D lens).

The NX300’s 84mm (3.31″) AMOLED screen makes capturing and reviewing your images a pleasure, while the hybrid touch screen and 5-way manual key interface is simple and intuitive to use. The tilt display makes it easier than ever to take high and low angle shots, letting you capture your world from any angle you choose.

Easy usability and stylish retro design

The compact NX300 makes it simple for anyone to achieve pro-like and impressive pictures easily with minimal technical knowledge or time spent adjusting parameters. Using the camera’s Smart Mode, users can choose from 14 different settings, such as Creative Shot, Landscape, Light Trace or Action Freeze which will automatically adjust parameters such as aperture and shutter speed in order to obtain the best shot possible for the desired situation. The NX300 also includes i-Depth, an easy and simple way to adjust the depth of an image using the NX Series’ unique i-Function system which enables users to modify camera parameters using the lens itself, adjusting the image without ever having to move off target.

The NX acclaimed design returns with the NX300 sporting a stylish yet simple retro feel that is available in either black or white with a contrast silver band, conveying elegance and authenticity.

Instant sharing through enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity

The NX300’s Wi-Fi connectivity of SMART CAMERA allows users to share their cherished photos instantly and securely between their camera and smartphone (or tablet). To connect a smartphone to the camera, users simply need to download the Samsung SMART CAMERA App., which is available for both Android and iOS based application markets, onto their smartphone or tablet and follow the easy steps to create a secure connection with the camera. The NX300 will be able to detect and auto-connect to the smartphone wirelessly whenever any of the SMART CAMERA features are activated. These include AutoShare; which automatically sends every high-quality photos to your smart phone for safe keeping, and Mobile Link; which allows users to select and transfer images or album from the camera directly to your smartphone at their leisure. The SMART CAMERA App. also features a Remote Viewfinder function for the NX300, allowing for even more inventive and exciting photography.

The NX300’s enhanced Wi-Fi connectivity also lets users share images with friends and family directly from the camera via social networking sites using the cameras one-touch DIRECT LINK hot key. Alternatively, images can be automatically backed up or stored in the cloud through AllShare Play ensuring they are always safe and easily accessible.

Samsung 45mm 2D/3D lens

The Samsung 45mm 2D/3D lens(sold separately) opens up an exciting world of 3D imaging possibilities and is the world’s first one-lens 3D system for a consumer camera. Capable of capturing both still pictures and full 1080p HD video, the Samsung NX300 and 45mm 2D/3D lens kit have become the only compact system camera supporting both 3D still and 3D movie. The NX300 is also compatible with Samsung’s entire range of NX lenses and professional standard accessories, giving users an unparalleled range of options when striving for that perfect shot.

Please visit our booth to experience this future technology firsthand. Samsung’s product line will be displayed January 8-11 at booth #12004 in the Central Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Full details, video content and product images are available at the Samsung microsite at: http://www.samsungces.com/ or mobile site at: http://m.samsungces.com as well.