14 DAY TRIAL // Digital camera sales registered a downfall last year, especially on the compact camera segment. While the mirrorless segment has seen an increase in demand, DSLRs are slowly losing ground due to the new technologies integrated in the latest interchangeable lens cameras as well as the latest photographic capabilities of smart devices.
The Mobile World Congress 2014 has just opened its doors today and, while the show is mostly focused on mobile technology, there are a few things that will also impact the digital camera market.
One of the notable announcements is Aptina's 25MP image sensor that is capable of capturing full resolution and 4K video footage at 30 frames per second. What this really means is that you won't need a bulky DSLR or a mirrorless digital camera to capture UHD video, since future smartphones will be capable of doing that, while all is packed in a compact smart device.
Aptina's 1/2-inch AR2520HS sensor can capture 88% more light in comparison with traditional 1/3-inch mobile image sensors, being able to deliver high-speed processing and high-quality footage.
Besides that, the AR2520HS is also capable of capturing 1080p Full HD video footage at 120 frames per second, allowing you to play back clips in super slow motion.
For still images, the sensor offers stunning clarity that, combined with Aptina's MobileHDR (Mobile High Dynamic Range), enhances the capabilities of the camera to deliver high-quality photos with as little noise as possible.
“The AR2520HS offers an astounding full field-of-view and120 frames-per-second slow motion capture. To further enhance the experience, this is coupled with our MobileHDR technology to ensure amazing mixed-light performance,” states Sandor Barna, chief technology officer at Aptina. “Aptina, with this ultra-high-performance sensor, is delivering the full camera experience into mobile phones and tablets.”
While Panasonic announced recently the world's first mirrorless camera model with 4K video capabilities, it seems that the smartphone segment is rapidly catching up, putting even more pressure on overall digital camera sales.