Nikon COOLPIX
Three new point-and-shoot models from the compact line of digital cameras
The latest addition to the ever advancing world of photography sees three new cameras announced from Nikon today. Joining the COOLPIX line is the more advanced P7700, the tiny, credit card-sized S01 and the Android-powered S800c. Set to release in September 2012, the three point-and-shoot cameras each approach the consumer market from unique perspectives, while collectively staying true to the brand’s easy-to-use, handheld roots.
The largest of the three, the “flagship” P7700 model camera combines the expected small profile of the COOLPIX line with some more surprising attributes—mainly a 7.1x zoom NIKKOR ED glass lens, aperture max of f/2, a 12.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and full HD 1080p video capabilities. On top of the these specs, the point-and-shoot can shoot eight frames-per-second and boasts improved autofocus recognition and the ability to shoot RAW. Aesthetically, we’re digging the speckled black finish.
As more of a traditional COOLPIX-style camera, the significantly smaller S01 is admittedly focused on presentation and usability. For this, the S01 features a simplified UI filled with shortcuts and a single-button back to make viewing pictures easier and more intuitive. Size-wise, the “ultra-mini camera” weighs just 3.4 ounces and measures roughly 3×2 inches in body area, and is just 0.7 inches thick. To appeal to a younger audience the S01 will be available in a range of colors.
The COOLPIX S800c on the other hand is all about innovation. As the first Wi-Fi-enabled compact digital camera from Nikon to be powered by the Android operating system, the S800c is essentially forges a class of its own. The app-based camera is capable of web browsing and connects directly to social media outlets like Instagram. With a huge variety of camera based apps in the Google Play app store, the range of possibilities for this camera is immense.
Best of all the S800c can shoot full 1080p HD video and features built-in GPS for geo-tagging and general navigation. Plus it comes equipped with a 16-megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS sensor to cut down on noise and improve color range in low light conditions. A simple Google search should bring up teaser images of what the Android interface is expected to look like.
Dropping this September 2012, the latest additions to the COOLPIX line will be available directly from Nikon. Expect to see the P7700 for around $500, the S01 for a manageable $180 and the S800c for $350.
