Pre-PMA 2005: Sony has today announced the first of three four million pixel cameras in the shape of the Cyber-shot DSC-S40. Design-wise the S40 takes on the long lines seen in the U-series cameras but is offering more functionality and a slightly larger 1.5-inch LCD. The S40 is aimed clearly at the entry level user and features include an MPEG movie mode, a top shutter speed of 1/2000 sec, down to 30 seconds in manual mode, as well as a 32 MB internal memory.

Press Release:

SONY'S NEW STAMINA SERIES DIGITAL CAMERAS GEAR UP FOR MARATHON PICTURE-TAKING SESSIONS

ORLANDO (PMA 2005, Booth 3032), Feb. 19, 2005 — With a focus on performance, Sony's Stamina series of Cyber-shot® digital cameras set a new standard for speed, battery life and picture quality in compact cameras.

Adding to the overall value of the line, two of the models include the benefit of large LCDs for simple image inspection and sharing right on the camera. The optional Cyber-shot Station charging cradle offers additional convenience and utility to the DSC-S60 and DSC-S90 models.

All three easy-to-use, four-megapixel cameras are packed with features like Sony's Real Imaging Processor™ circuitry for better battery efficiency, more responsiveness and high quality movie taking. The Carl Zeiss® Vario Tessar® 3X optical zoom lens on the models complements their high resolution for great picture clarity, while 32 MB of internal memory and a Memory Stick® media slot provide plenty of storage capacity.

The new models in the S-series let you take approximately 110 shots while using two "AA" type batteries and around 550 shots while using a NIMH rechargeable battery.

So that pictures are captured in-focus with the proper lighting and exposure, the new cameras offer a smart auto-focusing and exposure system—meaning that even if the subject is off-center and in a difficult lighting situation, the cameras can automatically make the necessary adjustments. All of the models include a 3X optical zoom and 2X digital zoom for better looking, properly framed pictures.

Additionally, various preset scene modes are available for quickly selecting the best setting for the shooting conditions.

"Today's savvy customers are demanding more from their digital cameras," said Hiro Takahashi, Sony Electronics' vice president for digital imaging products. "From the entry level user to those looking to advance up, our new Cyber-shot S (for Stamina) cameras meet those needs by offering intelligent features and great value."

DSC-S40 Model

Perfect for the first-time digital camera buyer, the pocket-sized DSCS40 model is small enough to slip in into a clutch or shirt pocket. A 1.5-inch LCD enables convenient pre-shot framing as well as post-capture inspection.

It will be available in mid-March for about $200.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S40 specifications