Sony HDR-AZ1 action cam unveiled at IFA Berlin 2014

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Sony has launched a new action camera at IFA Berlin 2014 in the body of the HDR-AZ1 / HDR-AZ1VR, which comes packed with a Zeiss lens and integrated optical image stabilization technology.

The action camera industry is becoming very popular as people who practice action sports or enjoy outdoor activities are looking to record their adventures at high quality. This is one of the reasons why Sony has decided to join the market a long time ago.

The PlayStation maker has already introduced the QX1 and QX30 lens-style cameras, but they will do no good to the people who perform extreme sports. These devices are not rugged enough, so they could break easily. Well, the Sony HDR-AZ1 / HDR-AZ1VR action cam is now official as a sturdy shooter that is always “ready for adventure”.

sony-hdr-az1 Sony HDR-AZ1 action cam unveiled at IFA Berlin 2014 News and Reviews

Sony HDR-AZ1 is a new action camera capable of recording full HD videos which comes packed with WiFi and XAVC S codec support.

Sony announces HDR-AZ1 action camera with 11.9-megapixel sensor and Zeiss f/2.8 lens

Sony has revealed that the new AZ1 is about 30% smaller than its predecessors as well as lighter than other models in the company’s line-up. However, there is still enough room for a 11.9-megapixel 1/2.3-inch-type BSI-CMOS image sensor, Bionz X processor, and a Zeiss lens that offers a 170-degree field-of-view and an f/2.8 maximum aperture.

This action camera features built-in Optical SteadyShot technology, which represents Sony’s optical image stabilization system. The company says that when the OSS is in action, the lens’ field-of-view will be reduced down to 120-degree.

Sony HDR-AZ1 action cam records full HD videos and supports XAVC S codec

The part that is the most interesting to adventurers is the quality of the video. Sony HDR-AZ1 is capable of recording full HD / 1920 x 1080 videos at up to 60fps.

Its advantage is that it can do so at a rate of 50Mbps, courtesy of XAVC S codec support. This leads to high-quality videos, which will be paired with impressive audio quality, thanks to a built-in stereo microphone.

The new Sony HDR-AZ1 is splashproof, meaning that it will not be afraid of a few drops of water. Its capabilities can be further enhanced using a waterproof case that is supplied in the package without an extra cost. Using this case, the camera can go swimming at depths down to 5 meters or 15 feet.

As usual with recent Sony cameras, the HDR-AZ1 comes packed with WiFi and NFC. Using internet connectivity, the camera can automatically stream footage on the web via Ustream.

What you need to know about the HDR-AZ1VR version

Sony has also announced the HDR-AZ1VR special package which includes new the RM-LVR2V live view remote. This device can be attached to your wrist and features an LCD screen as well as the ability to control exposure settings.

Another thing worth noting is that the RM-LVR2V remote features built-in GPS that can be used for adding location and speed information to your videos.

The company will release the HDR-AZ1 this October for a price of $250, while the HDR-AZ1VR will become available during the same period for an amount of $250.

Sony HDR-AZ1 is already available for pre-order at Amazon, the retailer promising that it will ship the action camera on October 19.

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