Panasonic's new camera range gets NFC
A range of new Panasonic cameras and camcorders will attempt to solve the perennial camera connectivity problem with a novel inclusion — NFC.
- Webby Award honoree, 2x Gold Telly Award winner
A range of new Panasonic cameras and camcorders will attempt to solve the perennial camera connectivity problem with a novel inclusion — Near Field Communication (NFC).
As consumers demand more from their compact cameras in the wake of the smartphone revolution, manufacturers are adding better connectivity options to the humble point-and-shoot. Panasonic has taken a new approach by equipping much of its 2013 range with Wi-Fi and NFC to allow for easy sharing between mobile devices.
The two main models with NFC include Panasonic's travel camera, the TZ40, and its tough model, the FT5. Both come with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC as top-line specifications, allowing for easy photo sharing with mobile devices. Simply establish a connection, tap the devices together and a transfer will initiate. A new Panasonic image app for iOS and Android also lets photographers control the camera remotely using a tablet or smartphone as a viewfinder.
On top of the new connectivity option, the TZ40 sports a 20x optical zoom, 18.1-megapixel MOS sensor and a 920,000-dot touchscreen with a range of touch focusing options. The FT5 is waterproof to 13 metres, shockproof from 2 metres, freeze-proof to -10 degrees Celsius and dustproof. It has a 16.1-megapixel MOS sensor and a range of creative filters.
Though these cameras were all announced earlier this year as part of the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Panasonic has now released Australian pricing and availability for the new models.
The TZ40 and FT5 will both be available from May for AU$499. Stay tuned for more hands-on coverage, photos and first impressions of these new models and more.
Lexy Savvides travelled to Adelaide as a guest of Panasonic.