Samsung HMX-F90 - specs and details

Posted on 23 Nov 2012 at 10:51, by Gareth Halfacree

Samsung has announced a new hand-held high-definition video camera, the HMX-F90, which it plans to release in the UK in time for Christmas.

Based around a five megapixel CMOS sensor, the camera includes support for 720P video capture at 30 frames per second - but sadly not Full HD 1080p capture - along with still image capture at 1600x1200 resolution. A 52x optical zoom lens is able to extend to 70x using Samsung's 'Intelli-Zoom' technology, which uses the extra resolution of the sensor to further increase the zoom level without the image degradation normally seen with digital zoom systems.

In-body functions include a setting for time-lapse recording, the ability to pause mid-recording and resume within the same file, and an updated version of the company's Smart Background Music function. The latter comes in handy when couple with the camera's One Touch Share feature, which allows videos to be quickly uploaded to video sharing and social networking sites including YouTube and Facebook.

With an f/1.8-2.1 lens, the camera should work well in low-light conditions, and its compact size will make it easy to carry. A side-mounted liquid-crystal display provides shot framing and feedback, and - as is common on such cameras - can be rotated to allow self-filming.

The company has confirmed that it plans to launch the HMX-F90 in the UK before Christmas, but has yet to provide official pricing. With its focus on 720p, rather than 1080p, recording, we're hopeful for a pocket-friendly camera in more ways than one.