Sony expands NFC range with new smartphones, cameras, camcorders and in-car audio

Sony Xperia Z1 Compact
XPERIA Z1 COMPACT: A smaller version of Sony’s Z1 Android smartphone

Sony has shown off two new versions of its flagship Xperia Z1 NFC smartphone and announced a number of new cameras, camcorders and in-car CD players with NFC at CES 2014.

The new variants of the Xperia Z1 are a sleeker and smaller Z1 Compact and a T-Mobile exclusive model called the Z1S for the US market.

Additions to its photography range include a 4K camcorder, two full HD camcorders and a digital camera with interchangeable lenses.

Sony AX100E
AX100E: 4K camcorder shares photos and MP4 videos to a smartphone or tablet with a touch

Two versions of the company’s new compact camcorder are to be available — the US$1,999 Handycam AX100 in the US and the £1,939 Handycam AX100E in Europe. Both are capable of recording in ultra-high-resolution 4K, even in low light, thanks to a back illuminated 1.0-type Exmor R CMOS sensor.

NFC functionality can be used to pair the camcorder to a second device to allow clips and photos to be transferred via WiFi. A Smart Remote Control function allows the user to start and stop recording from their smartphone.

The £1,509 (US$2,477) Full HD Handycam CX900E and the £349 (US$573) splash-proof wearable Action Cam HDR-AS100VR will both also enable users to pair their camcorder with their mobile device via NFC.

A light and compact A5000 camera, meanwhile, offers DSLR quality images through its 20.1 megapixel sensor, viewable on a 180-degree tiltable LCD screen. Interchangeable lenses can be swapped in and out and NFC can be used for one tap pairing.

Sony is also featuring NFC in an expanded in-car audio range that features three CD players — the MEX-N4000BT, MEX-N5000BT and MEX-N6000BH — and two additions to its GS premium range, the MEX-GS610BT and MEX-GS810BH.

NFC will allow users to touch their phone to the in-car unit in order to activate and connect to Bluetooth, enabling hands-free calling and music streaming.

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