Sony DSC-W90 Review

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W90 features an eight megapixel sensor which is coupled to a Zeiss-branded 3x optical zoom and a 2.5" LCD display. The DSC-W90's 35 - 105mm equivalent lens incorporates Sony's Super Steady Shot optical image stabilization to minimize blur caused by camera shake at slow shutter speeds. Other W90 features include ISO sensitivity to a maximum of ISO 3200, in-camera photo editing, a Memory Stick Duo / PRO Duo card slot plus 31MB of built in memory, and power from a proprietary Lithium Ion rechargeable battery. The W90 also offers high definition component video output, via an optional proprietary cable or cradle.

The Cyber-shot W90 includes Sony's new face detection technology, capable of detecting up to eight faces simultaneously. Sony's system is apparently linked not only to the W90's autoexposure and autofocus systems as in most similar systems, but also to white balance and flash metering as well - allowing the camera to ensure proper flash exposure and pleasing flesh tones. Also, the W90 marks one of the first applications of Sony's Bionz image processor - first seen in the company's Alpha digital SLRs - in their compact camera models. Sony says Bionz will offer improved image quality, faster response times, and better battery life in its compact cameras.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W90 ships from March 2007 priced at US$300, and will be available in black or silver.