Sony Introduces New 4K and Full HD Action Cams at CES 2015 2

Ever since launching their first Action Cam 2 years ago, Sony has kept a steady rhythm of new models coming, each more advanced than the previous. In some aspects, Sony has been ahead of its main rival GoPro (image stabilisation), in others it has been lagging (overall image quality, range of accessories) - but as of yesterday, it seems to have caught up with the release of the new FDR-X1000V Action Cam. Based on the same form factor as every Action Cam from the previous range except for the ultra-slim HDR-AZ1, it now packs an almighty 4K wallop as Sony continues to bring over features from its much acclaimed consumer and pro video cameras to the Action Cam range. If the full 4K capacities seem like overkill to you, also know that it can now do 120 FPS at full 1080 HD, cranks out 50Mbps @1080 via a new codec (or a massive 100Mbps @4K), has updated image stabilization and is accompanied by new accessories like a dive-port equipped underwater case and a new waterproof remote. We had good experiences with the previous generations, and after more recently getting a taste of the new recording codec in the AS100V, we are certainly eager to put this latest cam to the test! On paper, this latest offering from Sony does everything the latest GoPro does and then some, remains to be seen what it will produce in real life. Check out the video and the press release below, and stay tuned for more.

LAS VEGAS, Jan 5, 2015 – Sony Electronics, a worldwide leader in digital imaging, has today introduced its most powerful POV camera to date, the 4K Action Cam.

The new camera, model FDR-X1000V, applies the company’s vast expertise in 4K video production to a compact, splash-proof POV camera design, allowing adventurers to capture stunning 4K content (3840x2160@30p 100Mbps (1) or 60Mpbs) with ease, which can be played back on a compatible 4K TV directly from the camera through HDMI.  It also features enhanced HD video performance with upgraded stabilization, image quality and high-frame rate shooting.

Check out this introductory video from CES2015 which also includes sample footage:

The FDR-X1000V features a ZEISS Tessar® lens with an ultra-wide angle 170 degree (2) field of view, a back-illuminated Exmor R™ CMOS sensor and an acclaimed BIONZ X™ processor, ensuring that video quality remains consistently strong across all shooting environments.

Additionally, the new camera borrows the acclaimed full pixel readout technology from other high-end Sony cameras including the popular α7 S.   This allows the camera to read and process data from all of the sensor’s pixels to create exceptionally smooth, highly detailed 4K and HD videos in a variety of formats including MP4 and the high data stream XAVC S codec.

“I’m thrilled to bring the unmatched clarity and sharpness of the Sony 4K experience to our Action Cam line,” said Patrick Huang, director of the camcorder business at Sony Electronics. “The innovative design and impressive technology in the new X1000V reflect our strong 4K background and intense commitment to the POV camera market.”

“I’ve been lucky enough to test out the new 4K Action Cam on my skateboard, snowboard and surfboard, and have been blown away by the video quality” said Tony Hawk, professional skateboarder and official Team Action Cam member. “The camera excelled in every shooting environment, producing stunning 4K footage unlike anything I’ve ever seen before out of a POV camera.”

Upgraded HD Video, Stabilization, Control and Sound

The versatile new X1000V camera features an updated version of Action Cam’s leading SteadyShot™ stabilization (3) technology, adding electronic image stabilization that is approximately 3 times more effective at suppressing high-frequency motor vibration.  This allows users to capture clear, vibration-free aerial footage using “drones” and enhances action footage of fast-moving subjects.

The camera can also shoot HD video footage at extremely high frame rates of 120p in Full HD and 240p in standard HD for impressive slow-motion footage, and has clean HDMI output for recording to an external device.  On the audio front, the new Action Cam adds wind noise reduction that minimizes wind interference with the stereo microphone, ensuring the best possible sound experience.

For the more advanced user, there is an expanded scope of manual controls and setting adjustments including white balance, and auto exposure shifting.   Loop recording is also available, allowing users to maximize usage of available memory card space to ensure they get the exact shot they are looking for.  The camera also features live streaming capabilities through the U-STREAM® platform (4), burst still image shooting, Motion Shot LE and a variety of other fun, interactive features.

New HD Action Cam AS200V with Enhanced Image Quality

In addition to the new 4K model, Sony has also introduced the sleek Action Cam HDR-AS200V, which shares many of the same advanced features and exciting technologies as the X1000V including full pixel readout image, improved image stabilization, clean HDMI out and upgraded manual controls.  The AS200V can shoot full 1080p HD/50Mbps video (5) at 60p, 720p HD video at 120p and WVGA video at 240p.

“Highlight Movie Maker” in Action Cam

New to the X1000V and AS200V Action Cams, “Highlight Movie Maker” is a convenient function that automatically produces a short, edited highlight mp4 video of a recording session (6) – complete with custom background music – for instant sharing.  The new technology uses an algorithm to analyze footage during recording, earmarking action shots, scene changes and other key moments and combining them into a shortened video clip that is saved separately and available immediately for sharing.

New Live View Remote RM-LVR2

Sony’s new RM-LVR2 live view LCD remote is waterproof up to 3m (approx. 10ft) and features extensive control over the X1000V and AS200V action cam including start/stop recording, movie playback (without sound) and deletion of unwanted files.  It is also extremely useful for checking framing prior to shooting.   Users can also utilize Sony’s PlayMemories Mobile application – available for both Android and iOS – to control the new Action Cam with a smart device via Wi-Fi.   Multi different cameras can be controlled simultaneously using either the live view remote or a connected smart device and PlayMemories Mobile application (7).  

Built-in GPS and Action Cam Movie Creator

The X1000V and AS200V cameras are also equipped with built-in GPS, allowing users to utilize the provided Action Cam Movie Creator software to produce custom videos with GPS Data Overlay.  The software can also be used to merge multiple video files together and to add custom background music (8) to content as desired.

Coming Soon – Official Action Cam App

Sony will be releasing a new mobile application that offers customers a simple approach to pro-level video editing.  The official ‘Action Cam App” will be available for download on both Android and iOS platforms in Spring 2015.

New Action Cam Accessories

There are also a variety of new accessories for the expanding Action Cam lineup, including the VCT-HSM1 Helmet Side Mount which easily adjust angles for better shooting angles, and the VCT-BDM1 Board Mount that adheres safely and securely to a snowboard or surfboard.

Exclusively for the X1000V, the SPK-X1 Waterproof Case (9) keeps Action Cam water-tight to depths of 10m (approx. 33feet), while adding the AKA-DDX1 dive door lets X1000V focus underwater at depths down to 60m (approx. 197ft).

Pricing and Availability

The new Sony 4K Action Cam FDR-X1000V will be sold for about $500 and is packaged with the SPK-X1 waterproof case.  The Action Cam FDR-X1000VR bundle adds the RM-LVR2 Live View Remote and will be sold for about $600.

The new Sony HD Action Cam HDR-AS200V will be sold for about $300 and is also packaged with a waterproof case (model SPK-AS2) and a standard tripod mount.  The HDR-AS200VR bundle adds the RM-LVR2 Live View Remote and will be sold for about $400.

Both cameras and camera bundles will be available this March at Sony retail stores (www.store.sony.com) and other authorized dealers nationwide.

Notes:

1. Requires Micro SDXC UHS-I Class 3 (U3) Memory Card
2. When SteadyShot is set to OFF
3. 4K shooting mode not supported
4. Requires a Wi-Fi router or smartphone capable of tethering
5. Requires Micro SDXC (Class 10) or higher
6. Requires PlayMemories Mobile ver. 5.1(planned to be released in spring 2015) or later for operation.
7. Requires PlayMemories Mobile ver. 5.2 (planned to be released in spring 2015) or later.
8. Requires Action Cam Movie Creator ver. 4.2.00 or later
9. Same as supplied. Suitable for waterfront activity but not suitable for underwater activity as it does not support focus underwater