Nikon announced its new DX-format digital SLR today, the Nikon D3200, as well as a mobile adapter that allows the digital SLR camera to share high-resolution photos with Android-based gadgets.
The Nikon D3200 packs an EXPEED 3 image-processing engine, which is commonly found in Nikon's high-end models. The new d-SLR also has an effective pixel count of 24.2 million pixels, which is a significant upgrade from the D3200's predecessor, the D3100 (14.2 million pixels).
The D3200's 24.2 million pixels are part of its new DX-format CMOS image sensor, which offers standard sensitivities of ISO 100-6400 and a Hi 1 setting equivalent to ISO 12800. This is a boost from the D3100's standard ISO sensitivities of ISO 100-3200.
While the D3000 and D3100 both had Guide mode, which assists people who are new to photography in taking quality pictures, the D3200 has an improved Guide mode. A few changes include an increased number of assist images that show results the user can expect from the camera's settings before taking pictures; new options for the Advanced operation option, including "Take bright photos," "Reduce blur," "Take dark (low key) photos," and "Capture reds in sunsets," and other situation-specific options like close-ups, night portrait, show water flowing and soften backgrounds.
New D3200 owners can also expect a large 3-inch, 921k-dot TFT LCD monitor with a live view button, which has four AF-area modes: Normal-area AF, Subject-tracking AF, Wide-area AF and Face-priority AF. There is also a D-movie function that records 1920 x 1080/30p full-HD movies.
"The extremely portable, compact and lightweight body of the entry-level D3200 is loaded with the latest digital SLR camera functions, allowing for full-scale, flexible photography," said Nikon. "Users will enjoy its simple operation with the capture of beautiful images exhibiting superior image quality that they will be eager to share with others."
Nikon also announced its Wireless Mobile Adapter WU-1a today, which allows images that are captured by the D3200 to be shared with Android-based devices. Not only can the D3200's images be wirelessly transferred to an Android device, but the smartphone or tablet can also show the camera's live view display right on its screen for remote control over shooting.
Nikon said a wireless mobile adapter for Apple's iOS would be out later in fall 2012.
The D3200 is listed for $699.95 on Nikon's website.
