Best high-end compact cameras: 6 compared
High-end compact cameras explained
Compact cameras don't have to be small on quality or sophistication. Here, we examines some advanced models that can deliver spectacular image quality even in the most demanding of conditions.These top compact cameras also offer the creative shooting modes and advanced adjustments that we expect from our DSLRs, but that would fit in a pocket.
So whether you need to travel light or you just want a camera that you can take anywhere, anytime, so that you can stop missing those golden photo opportunities, you've come to the right place.
Downsized delights
At the heart of any camera is its image sensor, and this is where downsizing begins for compact models. A full-frame DSLR has a sensor that is the same size as a frame of 35mm film, measuring 36 x 24mm.
Most DSLRs have APS-C (Advanced Photo System - Classic) sized sensors that are smaller at around 23.6 x15.6mm, but the sensors fitted to most compact cameras are much smaller.
Popular choices for high-end compacts include 2/3-inch or 1/1.7-inch sensors. The dimensions of these work out to around 8.8 x 6.6mm and an even smaller 7.6 x 5.7mm.
In this group, the Canon PowerShot G12, Nikon Coolpix P7100 and Ricoh GR IV all use 1/1.7-inch sensors, whereas only the Fujifilm X10 has a larger 2/3-inch sensor. The Olympus XZ-1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5 have an intermediate 1/1.63-inch size, which roughly equates to 8 x 6mm.
With smaller sensors, the focal length multiplier (often called the crop factor) is significantly greater than with APS-C format DSLRs.
So whereas most DSLRs have a crop factor or focal length maginifcation of 1.5x (1.6x for Canon), the compact cameras on test have crop factors varying between 3.93x and 4.55x.
The upshot is that to get an effective zoom range of, say, 28-112mm, the actual focal length range is tiny in real terms, at about 6-24mm. Because the focal length is so short, and the image circle needed to cover the sensor is small, the lens as well as the camera body can have small physical dimensions.
Big in parts
A major advantage of compact camera lenses having very small focal lengths is that the depth of field can be massive. That's because depth of field is dependent on the actual focal length of the lens rather than after the crop factor has been applied.At the wide-angle end of the zoom range, there's no problem keeping very close objects and distant horizons simultaneously sharp.
The downside is that blurring the background for creative effect is much more of a challenge. You'll need to use the maximum telephoto zoom setting and select the largest possible aperture.
All our cameras here have a full range of Program, Aperture Priority, Shutter Priority and Manual exposure modes, so making these adjustments is quick and easy, just like on an DSLR.
Even so, you'll still struggle to get a shallow depth of field with the Ricoh GR IV, because it's the only camera on test that lacks a zoom lens, instead having a fairly wide-angle, fixed focal length lens equivalent to 28mm.
Can you handle it?
Handling is often a problem with compact cameras. Firstly, the small size of the camera makes it difficult to get a natural, steady grip, especially when you're holding it at arm's length to compose shots on the LCD screen.To help out, all the cameras in the group have either optical or sensor-shift stabilisation built in, which helps to minimise camera shake.
The Canon, Fujifilm and Nikon cameras go one better by adding an optical viewfinder (OVF). This helps stability, because you can lock the camera into your face, like you would with an DSLR, even if the zoom mechanism and off-axis placement of the viewfinder mean you only get an approximation of the composition.
If a viewfinder is a must-have, Olympus offers an electronic one as an optional extra, whereas Ricoh has an optional optical viewfinder and Panasonic has both optical and optional electronic viewfinders.
The other factor that adversely affects handling is that there's little room to put dedicated dials and buttons for all your favourite shooting parameters.
Even so, the Canon, Fujifilm and Nikon models manage to squeeze in plenty of direct access controls. Indeed, Nikon's P7100 has more direct control buttons and dials than most of its mid-range DSLRs.
Canon PowerShot G12
Canon PowerShot G12 - £380/$420
A quick glance is all that's needed to confirm the Canon G12's advanced aspirations. The front, top, back and sides are crammed with sophisticated features, controls and connections. The camera may look a bit daunting to beginners, but serious photographers will delight in the instant availability of functions such as ISO and Exposure Compensation, which have their own clearly calibrated dials.The features list is long and impressive, adding options like an HDR shooting mode and high-def movie capture, both of which were absent on the preceding Canon G11. Even so, maximum movie resolution is only 720p rather than full 1080p, but it's backed up by an excellent hybrid IS (Image Stabiliser) system that counters positional shift in the camera, as well as the usual angular vibration.
The G12 also features Canon's HS system, which combines a high-sensitivity sensor with DIGIC 4 image processing in a bid to deliver 'exceptional low-light shooting capabilities'. That's the theory, at least. The standard ISO range stretches from ISO 80-3200, but an expanded ISO 12800 setting is available as an added extra, with a much reduced 2.5MP image size.
Overall handling is excellent, with the chunky body enabling a natural grip, despite the cluttered control buttons. The Canon G12 is also the only camera in this group to feature a fully articulated LCD screen, which is great for shooting from tricky angles and also for taking self-portraits.
The G12's AF system is very accurate and pretty quick, even when shooting in low lighting conditions. The metering system is practically foolproof and delivers perfect exposures almost every time. Overall image quality is very good when shooting in JPEG mode, and excellent if you choose to shoot raw files.
Despite Canon's claims, the PowerShot G12 isn't exactly a star performer at high sensitivity settings, and noise is very visible in images taken above ISO 800.
Outdoor
Images tend to be more punchy than from most Canon DSLRs, with plenty of vibrancy and contrast, yet highlights are retained well.
Resolution
Sharpness and detail resolution is very good in the ISO 80-400 sensitivity range, but it does drop off noticeably from ISO 800 upwards.
Noise
ISO 200 at 100%
ISO 3200 at 100%
Despite Canon's claims, image noise at high ISO settings is merely average, and very noticeable in the ISO 1600-3200 range.
Colour error
Accurate Auto White Balance helps to ensure good colour performance is maintained in wide-ranging lighting conditions.
Image test verdict
Very good in the ISO 80-400 sensitivity range, image quality is still perfectly acceptable at ISO 800, with plenty of vibrancy to boot.Read our Canon PowerShot G12 review
Fuji FinePix X10
Fuji FinePix X10 - £395/$600
The Fujifilm X10 looks like a classic and classy customer, but there's plenty of craftiness lurking beneath its magnesium top plate. The 2/3-inch 12MP CMOS image sensor is the largest in the group, both in physical dimensions and resolution, and it's from Fujifilm's well-established EXR stable.When the going gets tough, the sensor shares pixels to deliver low-noise images at very high sensitivities, as with the Canon G12, but it can also do an HDR trick. For this it uses half the pixels to capture highlight information and the other half for lowlights, then creates a high dynamic range image from a single exposure. It's also the only camera in the group that offers full 1080p video capture.
Like the Canon and Nikon cameras, there's a separate calibrated dial for Exposure Compensation but, without an articulated or tilting screen, some of the control buttons are shifted to the left of the LCD screen around the back. This makes for a far less cluttered surface while still giving direct access to a host of important shooting parameters.
The only thing missing is an ISO button, but you can assign this to the programmable Fn button on the top plate.
Despite being noticeably more slimline than the Canon and Nikon cameras in this group, handling is still excellent. The optical stabilisation isn't quite as fabulous as Canon's hybrid system, but runs very close.
The manual zoom ring on the lens is much more precise, and much easier to control, than any of the other cameras' motorised zooms, and can also be used to quickly switch the camera on and off.
Autofocus is also fast and very precise, even in gloomy conditions, and metering is unerringly accurate. Image quality is wonderfully lifelike, and the film simulations like Provia (standard), Velvia (vivid) and Astia (soft) work a treat. Beneath its understated styling, the Fujifilm X10 is a powerful camera that packs a considerable punch.
Outdoor
Images are wonderfully crisp and lifelike, thanks to accurate metering even in tricky conditions, and impressive dynamic range.
Resolution
The X10 reveals amazing levels of detail along with great contrast, even under flat lighting, only dropping off at very high ISO settings.
Noise
ISO 200 at 100%
ISO 3200 at 100%
Image noise is well contained even at ISO 3200, although a little fine detail is lost. The X10 is one of the best low-light performers in the group.
Colour error
Colour rendition is vibrant but accurate, making for beautiful pictures of everything from landscapes to portraits.
Image test verdict
A real star performer, the Fujifilm X10 delivers image quality that can rival or even beat many of the DSLRs currently on the market.Read our Fuji FinePix X10 review
Nikon Coolpix P7100
Nikon Coolpix P7100 - £325/$500
Although bigger than most compact cameras, there's not a centimetre to spare, as the Nikon P7100 is awash with buttons and dials. The top plate alone has a combined push-button and rotary control for image quality, ISO, white balance, picture controls and auto bracketing, along with a hotshoe, shooting Mode dial, Exposure Compensation dial, main on/off button, shutter button, zoom control and programmable Fn 2 button.Just beneath the top plate controls are four more buttons and dials around the back, plus a command dial on the front. The rear of the camera is similarly stuffed with a tilting LCD screen, more buttons and a four-way pad that doubles as a rotary controller. Suffice it to say that for CKTs (Compulsive Knob Twiddlers), the P7100 is a dream come true.
For serious shooters, the plethora of controls offers quick access to any and every shooting parameter you could wish for. Impressive specs include a powerful and class-leading 7.1x zoom range (equivalent to 28-200mm), backed up with an effective optical stabiliser that works well even at the longest telephoto setting. The 3-inch LCD is very high-res at 921k pixels, and teams up with a built-in optical viewfinder.
Part camera, part digital darkroom, the P7100 has a particularly long list of special effects, as well as the more usual scene modes, which you can access directly from the shooting Mode dial. It adds a fun element to an advanced camera, although performance is a mixed bag.
Handling is very good once you've memorised where all the buttons and controls are positioned, but the maximum burst rate is painfully slow at just 1.2fps, compared with 7fps for the Fujifilm and Olympus cameras.
Ultimately, it's the outright image quality that's the biggest disappointment here. Nikon cameras are renowned for their punchy pictures, but colour rendition from the P7100 can be downright lurid, even when using the standard Picture Control setting.
Outdoor
Acid greens in this shot are an example of how the Nikon pumps up saturation, even in its standard Picture Control setting.
Resolution
The P7100 has the lowest scores in the group for resolution. There's not a lot of attention to fine detail either, which is rather disappointing.
Noise
ISO 200 at 100%
ISO 3200 at 100%
Image noise isn't a problem in the ISO 100-400 range, but ramps up significantly after that. At ISO 3200, it's very disappointing.
Colour error
As with resolution, the P7100 has the worst lab test score in the group for colour accuracy. It's all too obvious in many of the camera's pictures.
Image test verdict
Compared with the excellence of Nikon's entry-level DSLR cameras, the P7100 is a big disappointment in terms of image quality.Read our Nikon Coolpix P7100 review
Olympus XZ-1
Olympus XZ-1 - £295/$500
Weighing in at around 100g less than the chunky Canon and Nikon cameras on test, the Olympus XZ-1 is a more slimline affair, despite boasting a larger 1/1.63-inch (8 x 6mm) image sensor. It's the only camera in this group that doesn't have a sculpted hand grip and handling feels considerably less assured as a result.Direct access controls are few and far between on the XZ-1, so there's much more reliance on scouring through the menus whenever you want to change anything. At least there's a quick menu available for major settings like ISO, white balance and picture style, as well as drive, autofocus and metering modes. This displays on the LCD screen when you press the OK button at the centre of the four-way pad.
One neat touch is that the lens features a context-sensitive control ring around its circumference. For example, in Aperture Priority mode, the ring adjusts the aperture setting.
Another uncommon, but useful, feature is a Bulb mode for long exposures - this is shared only by the Ricoh in the group. There are no less than 18 scene modes and six different art effects to play around with, but unfortunately the Olympus XZ-1 lacks a built-in viewfinder.
An optional electronic viewfinder is available, but it's a rather pricey proposition at around £180, and can't be used at the same time as a flashgun because it clips into the hotshoe.
The maximum burst rate is an impressive 7fps, but in high-speed drive modes only fairly low-res, 1280 x 960-pixel images are available. The Fujifilm X10 in this group also drops image size when using its fastest 7fps continuous shooting mode, but to a much more usable 2816 x 2112 pixels (6MP).
Colour rendition, sharpness and tonal range are all good in well-lit scenes. For indoor shots without flash, the XZ-1's images lack detail, even at low ISO settings, while noise is a major problem at high sensitivity settings. The autofocus speed also drops considerably in dull conditions.
Outdoor
As is often the case with Olympus cameras, the XZ-1's colour balance brings a certain warmth to outdoor images.
Resolution
It starts off well at ISO 100, but resolution drops steadily through the sensitivity range and is extremely poor at ISO 3200.
Noise
ISO 200 at 100%
ISO 3200 at 100%
There's precious little fine detail in low-light conditions, even at medium sensitivity settings. At ISO 1600 and above, shots look noisy and blurry.
Colour error
Colour rendition is good overall, but there's often a slightly warm colour cast to images, due to the way white balance is handled.
Image test verdict
The sun-loving Olympus XZ-1 gives pleasing results in good lighting conditions, but unfortunately it fails to impress when light levels fall.Read our Olympus XZ-1 review
Panasonic DMC-LX5
Panasonic DMC-LX5 - £310/$420
About the same size and slightly lighter than the Olympus XZ-1, the Panasonic LX5 nevertheless feels a lot less fiddly to use. The shooting Mode dial is bigger with larger markings, and there's a decent-sized command dial on the back, which is a vast improvement on Olympus's very thin rotary dial around the four-way pad.The Panasonic camera shares the same generously sized 1/1.63-inch (8 x 6mm) sensor as the Olympus model, which is a step up from the Canon, Nikon and Ricoh cameras in the group. Some of the features here include Panasonic's 'Intelligent Resolution' system, in which outlines, detailed texture and gradations in a scene are automatically analysed by the image-processing engine, which enhances them accordingly.
Sliding switches mounted on the lens barrel give quick access to focus modes and to image aspect ratios, with options for 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9. The control for Exposure Compensation is a lot harder to find, as it's not labelled anywhere on the camera or in the menus.
However, once you resort to looking it up in the manual and discover that you need to press in the rotary command dial on the back of the camera, you won't forget again in a hurry.
The 3.8x zoom range is the smallest in the group (bar the Ricoh GR IV with its fixed focal length lens) but it's impressively sharp and distortions are well contained. Better still, it's the only camera on test that zooms out to an extra-wide 24mm equivalent focal length, which enables you to squeeze more into the picture. The maximum telephoto length of 90mm, however, is comparatively disappointing.
The Intelligent Auto shooting mode is particularly good at judging scenes and coming up with the right camera settings for you, while the autofocus system is reasonably quick and metering is accurate.
And if you really can't live without a viewfinder, Panasonic offers optional optical or electronic finders to slot into the hotshoe.
Outdoor
Landscape photography benefits from excellent dynamic range, especially at ISO 80-400. There's plenty of sharpness and vitality too.
Resolution
In lab testing, the LX5 is an average performer in terms of resolution, but images generally look impressively sharp, with plenty of contrast.
Noise
ISO 200 at 100%
ISO 3200 at 100%
It's best to stick to the ISO 80-400 sensitivity range, as image noise becomes noticeable at ISO 800 and is poor by the time you hit ISO 3200.
Colour error
With one of the best scores in the group for colour accuracy, images from the LX5 look very true to life, straight off the camera.
Image test verdict
The LX5 is on a par with the Canon G12 in all areas of image quality, producing punchy, vibrant results, but high ISO performance could be better.Read our Panasonic DMC-LX5 review
Ricoh GR IV
Ricoh GR IV - £435/$600
Considering it's the most expensive camera in this group, the Ricoh's build feels a little bit plasticky, but is nevertheless based on a tough magnesium alloy body. It's also extremely light, being barely more than half the weight of the Canon or Nikon cameras on test.The Ricoh GR IV is the outright smallest camera in the group too, although this is mainly because it has a fixed lens, rather than a zoom. Many photographers will find the absence of a zoom lens quite limiting, as you're stuck with an effective 28mm focal length.
A wide-angle conversion lens is available as an optional extra, bringing the focal length down to 21mm, but telephoto shooting is off the menu. Having said that, there is a digital zoom facility that offers up to 4x magnification, but this is a poor alternative to optical zoom.
Other limitations include the inability to shoot simultaneously in raw and JPEG modes. This is something that's available in every other camera here. There's also no built-in viewfinder to be found on this camera, although an optical finder that clips into the hotshoe is available as an optional extra.
On the plus side, the Ricoh GR IV boasts a new hybrid autofocus system that combines the regular contrast detection of other compact cameras with a separate autofocus sensor. Ricoh claims that autofocus performance is twice as fast as with the older GR III.
New to the GR line is a sensor-shift stabilisation system that works reasonably well, but just isn't quite as effective as the optical equivalents used in all the other cameras in this group - with the exception of the Olympus model.
Rather disappointingly, the hybrid autofocus isn't noticeably faster than with any of the other cameras on test, although a 'quick snap' mode enables you to apply a preset focus distance. Making use of this feature means that you are able to take autofocus out of the equation. Overall image quality is good, but certainly not great.
Outdoor
The GR IV tends to under-expose high-contrast scenes to avoid blown highlights. As a result, pictures can end up looking a bit gloomy.
Resolution
Despite having a prime rather than zoom lens, resolution is only average, falling midway between the excellent Fujifilm and under-achieving Nikon.
Noise
ISO 200 at 100%
ISO 3200 at 100%
There's very little image noise at sensitivity settings between ISO 80-200, but it's noticeable at ISO 400 and very poor at ISO 3200.
Colour error
Lifelike colour rendition is reflected by one of the most impressive lab test scores for colour accuracy in the whole group.
Image test verdict
Frequent under-exposure can give images something of a dull and muted look, and image noise becomes a real problem at high ISO settings.Read our Ricoh GR IV review
Verdict: Best high-end compact camera
The Fuji X10 is an unassuming little camera to look at, even if its classic styling has a timeless quality. Under the skin, however, it's packed with high-tech treasures.The large (2/3-inch) sensor has the highest resolution in the group at 12 megapixels, and it's put to good use with great image sharpness and features that include enhanced high-sensitivity performance and automatic HDR processing from a single exposure.
Colour error result: The Ricoh GR IV was the most natural, but the Fuji X10 and Nikon P7100 both show slightly over-saturated JPEG colour.
Noise result: The Fuji X10 shows consistent results, topping the group up to sensitivity of ISO 800. Above this value the Nikon just takes the lead.
Dynamic range result: From a sensitivity of ISO 200 the Fujifilm X10 shows at least a 1EV higher dynamic range result than the rest of the group.
It's not just about the image quality, though - the X10 wins out with supremely good handling for such a small camera. The manual zoom lens is so much quicker and more precise than the motorised systems fitted to all the other cameras.
Next up, it's a close call between the Canon G12 and Panasonic LX5. There's practically nothing to choose between them in terms of image quality, so it boils down to whether you prefer the abundance of control buttons and dials that cover the G12's chunky body, or the more streamlined approach of the LX5, which also lacks a built-in optical viewfinder.
At the bottom of the pile are the Nikon P7100 and Ricoh GR IV. There's no lack of direct-access controls on the Nikon, which has a similar design to the Canon, but its continuous drive rate is painfully slow and image quality is a disappointment. The Ricoh's lack of a zoom lens limits its appeal and overall versatility.
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Businesses see a positive effect of social media
Research released by digital marketing agency EPiServer reveals that businesses are spending longer on social media, and are seeing positive contributions to profits and customer loyalty.
The new report from EPiServer 'Tackling the social challenge' shows that over the past year, almost a third (29%) of UK businesses have set up a new social media channel, and 17% reported an intent to set up more social media channels in the coming year.
An hour a day on social media
Businesses are also reporting that they're spending longer managing their brand on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Marketers are now spending an average of an hour a day managing social media. More than half (52%) say they have increased the amount of time dedicated to managing social media, and 20% expect it to increase further in the next twelve months.One in five see sales rise from social
Many companies said that they have seen tangible benefits from their social media work. A quarter of businesses reported that they have seen an increase in website traffic, while one in five (21%) attribute an increased sales turnover to the active use of social media. Just under a third (30%) also said they've experienced increased customer loyalty, and 31% report heightened customer engagement.Managing social media channels
Facebook (65%) and Twitter (60%) are the most popular channels for business, and around a quarter of companies are currently managing more than one account on each.The role of a community or social media manager is something companies are starting to consider but, similar to last year, they have largely failed to appoint dedicated managers. Only 22% have a social media or community manager in place.
Maria Wasing, VP of Marketing Europe & Sales Operations, EPiServer, commented, "While an increasing number of businesses are embracing social media, there are clearly areas for improvement if they are to take full advantage. Managing social media can be challenging and time-consuming, so it's vital to put in place a dedicated resource, along with the right tools and platforms to ensure multiple channels can be updated and managed with ease."
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Mobile phones probably won't give you cancer
Move your mobile phone back to your jeans pocket fellas, a report by the Health Protection Agency says there is no evidence to suggest that phone radiation damages health.
Although the risks have been almost universally ignored by the billions of mobile phone users around the world, every so often a study pops up to announce that we're all slowly developing cancer as a result of phone radiation.
The HPA's study of all published research on the subject is the largest to date, and found that there is "no indication" of risk from phone radiation.
Despite this, there still isn't a definitive conclusion to the question of whether the radiation can be harmful and the independent advisory group counselling the HPA on the research notes that it is still crucial to watch for brain tumour and cancer trends in relation to phone use.
Limitations
"There are still limitations to the published research that preclude a definitive judgement," said Professor Anthony Swerdlow, chairman of the catchily-named advisory group on non-ionising radiation (AGNIR)."But the evidence overall has not demonstrated any adverse effects on human health from exposure to radiofrequency fields below internationally accepted guideline levels."
One problem with research into the potential adverse health effects of phones is that they haven't been around for that long – "Beyond 15 years for mobile phones, we have to say we have little or no information," Swerdlow added.
"Remember this is an exposure that 20 years ago nobody had and now practically everybody has so you might expect that if there were appreciable effects that you would see them in the tumour rates.
"But if this is something that takes 15, 20 years or more to show up… we need to keep watching the rates just in case."
Despite the findings, the HPA still recommends that children should refrain from "excessive use" of mobile phones, just to be on the safe side.
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Samsung reveals the Galaxy S3 quad-core processor
Samsung has officially announced its Exynos 4 Quad processor and has confirmed that the quad-core chip will feature in the Galaxy S3 handset.
There has been much speculation surrounding the specifications of the Samsung Galaxy S3 and we now have our first official confirmation with the unveiling of the Exynos 4 Quad.
Samsung promises "powerful quad core performance" and reveals that the Exynos 4 Quad doubles the performance of its dual-core predecessor, "while consuming 20% less power".
We were surprised to see a huge spec of the new phone confirmed, but Samsung stated: "Already in production, the Exynos 4 Quad is scheduled to be adopted first into Samsung's next Galaxy smartphone that will officially be announced in May."
Samsung: "How amazing!"
With this claim out in the open, we're hoping the Galaxy S3 is able to conserve its battery life better than the HTC One X, although an update has improved the situation massively there.As well as improved power and battery consumption, the Exynos 4 Quad can deliver console-like 3D gaming, which falls in nicely with the rumours suggesting that the Galaxy S3 will sport a swanky HD display.
Samsung also claim that the Exynos 4 Quad will allow devices to take better quality pictures and provide full HD video playback, supporting "almost any type of video format."
There's even a swish looking web page showing off the Exynos 4 Quad processor, but before you get too excited we're pretty sure Samsung hasn't been silly enough to leak the Galaxy S3 design on there… has it?
The Exynos 4 Quad certainly sounds impressive and with Samsung guaranteeing its inclusion in its next Galaxy device, we're looking forward to the May 3 event in London even more.
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Exclusive: Aardman: mirrorless cameras could be a future solution for film-making
The technical director of Aardman Animations has said that in the future the company would consider using mirrorless or compact system cameras to create its feature films, if the technology progressed enough.
In an exclusive interview with TechRadar, Tom Barnes explained how Aardman, the Oscar winning Bristol-based animation house used around 50 Canon 1D Mark III cameras to create its latest feature film, The Pirates.
However, as the film is shot with the cameras using Live View and the whole [full] frame isn't needed so any lenses which are used are re-engineered for purpose, a DSLR isn't necessarily the only solution.
"Our ideal camera wouldn't exactly be a DSLR, because the SLR bit isn't actually necessary," Barnes said. "If it was good enough quality, an interchangeable lens compact camera might be appropriate, but at the moment, none of those quite come up to a suitable level."
Performance
Barnes said it is the quality of the Live View and durability of cameras, which are usually better on professional level cameras, that is the main concern.Currently making up around 30% of all interchangeable lens cameras sold in the UK, and over 50% in Japan, the technology of mirrorless cameras is improving at a rapid rate.
Although there are not really any current compact system cameras aimed specifically at "professional" users, several premium models have recently come onto the market, perhaps suggesting that cameras will be heading in that direction for all sectors of the market.
To read more of the interview with Tom Barnes, where he discusses the benefits of using DSLRs to create stop-motion animations, read Why Aardman chose to shoot its latest movie on Canon DSLRs.
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UK white spaces broadband trials a success
A 10-month long experiment using white spaces for broadband capacity has been deemed "successful".
The idea is that white spaces – the interference caused by unused radio spectrums – is prime retail space for broadband in rural areas, where fitting a fibre optic line would be pretty much impossible or at the least too expensive.
There are a number of big names backing the trials, including the likes of the BBC, Microsoft, BT and Virgin Media (under the guise of the TV White Spaces Consortium) and the trials have been going on for the best part of a year now.
What the extensive trial has found is that there is plenty of white space to go around to plaster over the cracks of rural broadband.
According to the results, there's "significant television white spaces capacity" – which equates to 20 white spaces channels corresponding to 160 MHz in total, of which 13 use 104MHz.
Not only will this be good enough for rural areas, it will also help those who want 'machine to machine' communication and for selected urban areas.
When it comes to rural areas, the trial managed up to 8Mbps broadband and there was enough juice in the urban areas to achieve passable Wi-Fi hotspot connectivity.
Demonstrating potential
The trial does show that the technology does needs to be refined and speed tests aren't exactly knocking people's socks off but utilising white space does seem to be working and Ofcom has given its seal of approval.With 50 billion devices set to be connected to the web within the next eight years, even if the tech powers 'the internet of things' then it has a job on its hands.
Speaking about the trials, communications minister Ed Vaizey said: "I welcome the success to date of the Cambridge White Spaces Trial.
"Leading innovators from the UK and beyond have demonstrated the potential that television white spaces can have for meeting the UK's broadband needs. Developments such as this endorse the leadership position that the UK can take in enabling more efficient use of spectrum by opening up an array of opportunities for wireless applications for consumers and businesses alike."
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Two years ago, Android made 40 times more from ads than app sales
The Google v Oracle trial has exposed plenty of hidden facts about the inner workings of Google, not least of which was today's Blackberry-esque mockup of a 2006 prototype Google Phone.
But today also revealed equally juicy revenue figures for the fiscal fans. Today in court brought details on the drastic gap in Android's app and ad revenue. Android's 2010 revenue forecast revealed $158.9 billion from ads and a mere fortieth of that, $3.8 million from apps.
The large rift was expectable, but this is the first chance we've had to see the actual numbers. Google gives developers 70% of an apps purchase price, and carriers and payment processors get 25%. Google only keeps 5%.
The 2010 landscape
Apple's app revenue during the same time period was $1,782 million. But Google had just barely secured second place in 2010 and the landscape was entirely different, so of course the numbers are sure to be wildly different today.Also of note from today's slides is the little tidbit in which Google predicted Google Music would produce $738 million in revenue in 2011, and $148.9 million in revenue in 2012, and over $2 billion in 2013. We're going to go ahead and guess those numbers have been revised, as Google Music seems to be losing members.
We'll keep you updated with any and all new information that surfaces from the Oracle and Google trial.
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O2 Wallet promises to 'transform mobile payments'
O2 has finally launched the O2 Wallet in the UK – a mobile payment system that will offer money messaging, shopping comparison and aim to begin the task of ending the need for a real wallet.
The O2 wallet is for all UK mobile phone owners – not just limited to the company's own customers – and the app is available to users of devices with iOS, Android and BlackBerry OS 6 and up from today in the usual app stores.
O2 insisted that the lack of Windows Phone support was necessitated by resource, and that is working on an app for the Microsoft operating system along with tablet editions.
Money text
The O2 Wallet will allow people to add their credit and debit cards as well as add pre-pay and 'send' money to people.There is also a large shopping arm to the application offering deals and comparisons from more than one hundred retailers including launch partners that include Tesco, Sainsburys, Comet and Debenhams.
Although the O2 Wallet does have NFC in its future, the company is keen to point out that it is more about bringing mobile commerce for all.
Security is obviously a key factor in the wallet, but no card details are stored on the phone and the money messaging is from a pre-pay system.
People who receive money messages can either sign up for the O2 wallet, fill in their details to move the money into their account or reject payment.
If the message is not received in five days then the money is automatically refunded to the sender.
You can also, rather strangely, choose to share the fact you have sent a money message on Facebook – presumably so you can no longer be accused of welching on bets.
James Le Brocq, Managing Director at O2 Money, said: "O2 Wallet delivers the benefits of mobile money to more UK consumers than any other product or service currently available.
"With O2 Wallet, it's easier to transfer money, track expenditure and pay swiftly and securely, all using your mobile. We believe it will transform the way people manage their finances and spend money."
"Additional functionality will soon enable consumers to use O2 Wallet to top-up mobile airtime, buy train tickets and make mobile contactless payments via NFC technology.
"We recognise that security is absolutely key. O2 Wallet has been trialled internally for months and has undergone extensive 'stress-testing' with security experts.
"In additional to PINs and passwords, all personal details and financial data are held on remote central servers rather than on the mobile device itself.
"This, we believe, is the safest and most secure way to deliver mobile payment services."
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Are Samsung and Google teaming up to prep the next Nexus?
The rumor mill is churning at full speed, with some saying Samsung will once again partner with Google to create the next Nexus phone.
The topic is brought up in a published report as if it were a foregone conclusion that Samsung will take the reins on Google's next flagship device.
As a result, HTC may pursue a partnership with Facebook for a new line of smartphones.
It's entirely possible that Google will partner with Samsung on the next Nexus, as it has with the last two devices the Nexus S and Galaxy Nexus.
However, it's hard to say that for sure just yet.
Google keeping its options open?
Earlier this year, HTC told TechRadar that bidding for the next Nexus partnership was still in the air for manufacturers.Meanwhile, rumors cropped up indicating that Asus will partner with Google for its first Nexus tablet line.
Not to mention the wild card option, that Google could leverage newly acquired Motorola for the device.
Though that option may have left the table due to the purchase's high level of scrutiny.
Would you welcome another Samsung Nexus phone, or have you been hoping for another manufacturer to get a shot?
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O2 Wallet launches with aim to transform mobile payments
O2 has finally launched the O2 Wallet in the UK – a mobile payment system that will offer money messaging, shopping comparison and aim to begin the task of ending the need for a real wallet.
The O2 wallet is for all UK mobile phone owners – not just limited to the company's own customers – and the app is available to users of devices with iOS, Android and BlackBerry OS 6 and up from today in the usual app stores.
O2 insisted that the lack of Windows Phone support was necessitated by resource, and that is working on an app for the Microsoft operating system along with tablet editions.
Money text
The O2 Wallet will allow people to add their credit and debit cards as well as add pre-pay and 'send' money to people.There is also a large shopping arm to the application offering deals and comparisons from more than one hundred retailers including launch partners that include Tesco, Sainsburys, Comet and Debenhams.
Although the O2 Wallet does have NFC in its future, the company is keen to point out that it is more about bringing mobile commerce for all.
Security is obviously a key factor in the wallet, but no card details are stored on the phone and the money messaging is from a pre-pay system.
People who receive money messages can either sign up for the O2 wallet, fill in their details to move the money into their account or reject payment.
If the message is not received in five days then the money is automatically refunded to the sender.
You can also, rather strangely, choose to share the fact you have sent a money message on Facebook – presumably so you can no longer be accused of welching on bets.
James Le Brocq, Managing Director at O2 Money, said: "O2 Wallet delivers the benefits of mobile money to more UK consumers than any other product or service currently available.
"With O2 Wallet, it's easier to transfer money, track expenditure and pay swiftly and securely, all using your mobile. We believe it will transform the way people manage their finances and spend money."
"Additional functionality will soon enable consumers to use O2 Wallet to top-up mobile airtime, buy train tickets and make mobile contactless payments via NFC technology.
"We recognise that security is absolutely key. O2 Wallet has been trialled internally for months and has undergone extensive 'stress-testing' with security experts.
"In additional to PINs and passwords, all personal details and financial data are held on remote central servers rather than on the mobile device itself.
"This, we believe, is the safest and most secure way to deliver mobile payment services."
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Ice Cream Sandwich being served across Samsung devices
Samsung unleashed the full list of its devices that will receive an update to the Android Ice Cream Sandwich OS.
AT&T customers who own the Galaxy S 2, Galaxy S 2 Skyrocket, or Captivate Glide, will all receive the latest version of the Android OS; as well as owners of the Galaxy Tab 8.9 tablet and the tablet-phone hybrid Galaxy Note.
Verizon tablet users with either a Galaxy Tab 7.7 or Galaxy Tab 10.1 can expect an update in the future.
Sprint already has the Ice Cream Sandwich update available on the Nexus S 4G, with plans for the Samsung Epic 4G Touch, as well.
Ice Cream Sandwich is also on its way to Wi-Fi only models of the Galaxy Tab 7.0 In addition to the Galaxy Tab 8.9 and Galaxy Tab 10.1.
T-Mobile gets stiffed
However, T-Mobile drew the short straw, with Samsung still in talks with the carrier to ensure that eligible devices receive the Ice Cream Sandwich update.While it's nice that Samsung provided the list of devices to receive the Ice Cream Sandwich update, no timeframe was set for when it should be expected.
The closest mention to a timeframe is Samsung saying it expects the update to be available with T-Mobile "in the coming months."
Hopefully, we won't have to wait too long, since Samsung won't want to start summer without an Ice Cream Sandwich in hand.
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Microsoft is set to take another stab at a music service this E3
According to published reports, Microsoft is expected to announce the follow-up to the company's flagging Zune music service.
Codenamed "Woodstock," the new service is expected to move away from Zune's reliance on downloading DRM-enabled music to up to three computers and several devices, to something more like Spotify.
Rumored to be designed to play within a browser, the new music service will also be available to Windows 8, Android, iOS and Xbox users.
Microsoft's current music service, Zune, is playable on Windows mobile devices and Xbox gaming systems.
Zune never found its footing
And while Zune offers several robust features like a Smart DJ feature that in many ways rivals Apple's Genius, as well as the ability to share playlists with other Zune users, the service never quite took off and the company discontinued production of their Zune players last year.When asked for comment, a Microsoft representative told TechRadar that "Microsoft does not comment on rumors or speculation."
That said, the move from the Zune brand to the Xbox one seems a fitting move.
It remains to be seen how this change will impact current Zune Pass subscribers and at this time TechRadar does not know what the pricing structure for Woodstock will look like.
Via The Verge
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First ever Google Phone prototype revealed in court
Pictures of the first prototype Google Phone device from 2006 have surfaced, along with the search giant's initial plans for the Android operating system.
Two years before Android was launched commercially, Google approached T-Mobile USA with the prospect of releasing an internet-centric phone with a $9.99 a month (£6) unlimited data plan.
The initial device looks a little bit like a strange BlackBerry Bold, with Google proposing an open source operating system packed with Google apps like Maps, Gmail and Google Talk.
That would eventually, of course, become Android.
Court battle
The intriguing images and plans surfaced in court documents during Google's battle with Oracle over its use of the Java software within Android.Google's plans to subsidise the data plans, which would have included free Gmail, Gtalk, Google Search and Internet browsing, naturally did not come to fruition when Android launched in 2008.
The first handset, the G1, did indeed arrive on T-Mobile, but with regular data plans in the US and the UK.
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T-Mobile accuses Verizon of hoarding unused AWS spectrum bands
T-Mobile CEO Philipp Humm and his crack legal team met with FCC officials last week in an attempt to have Verizon's proposed purchase of speedy Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) spectrum bands rejected outright.
Verizon began bidding for the unused AWS spectrum bands, currently held by cable companies that include Cox Communications and Comcast, last year. In return for the AWS spectrum, Verizon offered to sell its own 700MHz A and B bands to other carriers.
Verizon contends that its 4G LTE network will make more efficient use of the AWS spectrum, but their bid has not gone uncontested.
T-Mobile, along with the Rural Cellular Association and advocacy groups that include the Consumers Union, filed Petitions to Deny the purchase with the FCC or otherwise objected to the deal.
Their primary argument against Verizon's purchase of more AWS spectrum is that Verizon isn't using the AWS spectrum that it already has.
Indeed, Verizon has held licenses for some AWS spectrum bands for the last six years, and has yet to utilize them in any way, including for 4G LTE support.
And, T-Mobile's senior vice president for government affairs, Tom Sugrue, says Verizon's offer of its 700MHz frequenices doesn't help.
Sugrue explained in a statement: "Verizon's announced plan to sell lower 700 MHz spectrum contingent on approval of its spectrum transaction with the cable companies is a tactical ploy designed to divert attention from its attempt to foreclose competitors from being able to acquire AWS spectrum - the last swath of immediately usable mobile broadband spectrum likely to be available in the near term."
T-Mobile said to the FCC that the 700MHz bands Verizon is offering up suffer from commercial interference, and few devices are set up to utilize those bands anyway.
Verizon retorts
Verizon denied the accusations, claiming that their purchase of additional AWS spectrum bands would aid consumers because Verizon's LTE network would use the bands more efficiently."This purchase will put unused spectrum into the hands of millions of consumers who will use it for high-quality wireless broadband service on Verizon's 4G LTE-enabled smartphones, tablets, and other devices," Verizon Spokesperson Robin Nicol said in a statement.
"T-Mobile's arguments ignore these facts and the needs of consumers, and instead ask the FCC to second-guess the workings of the private commercial secondary market," Nicol continued. "That is not the purpose of the FCC's review."
Both carriers want to eat their cake
Verizon's argument that their 4G LTE network is more efficient than T-Mobile's HSPA+ is valid, though T-Mobile would likely utilize the besieged AWS bands to upgrade their own network to LTE, making the entire point rather moot.And Verizon's statements fail to address the fact that the carrier is currently squatting on unused AWS spectrum bands, and has been doing so for the last six years.
Why not use what they've got before asking for more?
If the facts presented by both sides prove accurate, the FCC is likely to attempt to reach some compromise between the two carriers.
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Apple sells out WWDC 2012 show in two hours
Apple did West Coast developers no favors on Wednesday morning by announcing tickets to this year's Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco at 5:30 a.m. PST - only to sell out two hours later.
iOS and Mac developers were happy to hear that Apple finally committed to a date for its annual four-day Worldwide Developers Conference, to be held June 11-15 in San Francisco.
There's just one problem: A whole lot of developers won't have a ticket.
Sold Out in 2 Hours Flat
Apple announced the dates and began selling tickets - at a cost of $1599 each - to registered developers on their website at 5:30am PST on Wednesday.
By 7:30 a.m. PST, the tickets were gone, despite Apple limiting sales to one per customer for individuals and five per business.
"Sorry, tickets are sold out," the WWDC 2012 web page now reads. But developers shouldn't despair - Apple promises to stream the more than 100 technical sessions free of charge when the conference wraps up on June 15.
"We have a great WWDC planned this year and can't wait to share the latest news about iOS and OS X Mountain Lion with developers," said Apple senior vice president of worldwide marketing Philip Schiller.
"The iOS platform has created an entirely new industry with fantastic opportunities for developers across the country and around the world."
That is, assuming you live in a time zone where one is awake early enough to buy them, of course.
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Apple sells out WWDC 2012 show in 2 hours
Apple did West Coast developers no favors on Wednesday morning by announcing tickets to this year's Worldwide Developers Conference in San Francisco at 5:30 a.m. PST - only to sell out two hours later.
iOS and Mac developers were happy to hear that Apple finally committed to a date for its annual four-day Worldwide Developers Conference, to be held June 11-15 in San Francisco.
There's just one problem: A whole lot of developers won't have a ticket.
Sold Out in 2 Hours Flat
Apple announced the dates and began selling tickets - at a cost of $1599 each - to registered developers on their website at 5:30am PST on Wednesday.
By 7:30 a.m. PST, the tickets were gone, despite Apple limiting sales to one per customer for individuals and five per business.
"Sorry, tickets are sold out," the WWDC 2012 web page now reads. But developers shouldn't despair - Apple promises to stream the more than 100 technical sessions free of charge when the conference wraps up on June 15.
"We have a great WWDC planned this year and can't wait to share the latest news about iOS and OS X Mountain Lion with developers," said Apple senior vice president of worldwide marketing Philip Schiller.
"The iOS platform has created an entirely new industry with fantastic opportunities for developers across the country and around the world."
That is, assuming you live in a time zone where one is awake early enough to buy them, of course.
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Usain Bolt campaign helps Virgin Media profits grow
An advertising campaign featuring sprint star Usain Bolt sporting a Richard Branson-style beard has helped Virgin Media record its best financial results yet.
Profits grew 2.4 percent, year on year, and revenue topped £1 billion for the first time, in the first three months of 2012.
The company beat forecasts by bringing total cable TV subscribers up to 4.8 million, while 843,600 new broadband customers over the last 12 months brought the total up to 4.15 million.
As Virgin continues to roll-out its super-fast fibre-optic broadband network across the country, one in five customers have been upgraded to speeds of 30Mbps, while 250,000 are now receiving 50Mbps connections.
Fast cash
The company's CFO Eamonn O'Hare was quick to credit the advertising campaign featuring the world's fastest man as a primary reason for Virgin Media's improved prosperity."We've had a really busy start to the year, fast out of the blocks, and that's mostly down to our ad campaign," said chief financial officer Eamonn O'Hare.
"Performance in the quarter was across the board."
Reports that TalkTalk plans to sign a multi-million pound deal with former 200m bronze medal titan John Regis, in response, are unconfirmed...
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Sprint's Prepaid Boost and Virgin bringing back WiMax 4G
Some time in the next quarter, Sprint plans to grant prepaid Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile customers access to faster 4G data speeds via Clearwire's older WiMax network.
WiMax is an older 4G standard, slower than the newer LTE that's being widely adopted by other carriers, including Verizon and AT&T.
Sprint is rolling out LTE support this year as well, with 10 cities getting access by June. Sprint's Samsung Galaxy Nexus, HTC Evo 4G LTE, and LG Viper smartphones all come with the promise of LTE access.
But WiMax will stick around a while longer as the network of choice for Sprint's prepaid customers, the company's president of network operations, Steve Elfman, said on an earnings call today.
Prepaid Boost and Virgin Mobile is vital
Despite the popularity of contracts and the allure of heavily discounted, newer smartphones, prepaid customers remain vital to Sprint's business, Elfman said.The carrier added 489,000 prepaid customers in the first quarter, actually surpassing contract customer growth.
Giving these many prepaid customers access to WiMax 4G will make prepaid phones, which often end up costing more in the long run, more appealing.
More importantly, though, it will also alleviate part of the burden on Sprint's 3G network, which is beset by thousands of 3G-only iPhone users.
3G is suffering, blame it on the iPhone
Sprint customers were given the option to purchase Apple's iPhone for the first time ever last year, and the popular smartphone has become a strain on Sprint's 3G network. Offloading prepaid customers onto WiMax 4G should lift some of that burden.Elfman also noted that software they've added to other smartphones will cause the phones to search for Wi-Fi and WiMax whenever possible to further unburden their 3G network.
WiMax 4G remains a good option for Sprint because of the carrier's long-standing wholesale agreement with WiMax network provider Clearwire.
Although Clearwire plans to upgrade to the faster 4G LTE standard next year, WiMax will remain operational for some time. But LTE is expected to extend even to prepaid phones eventually.
Sprint reported an $863 million loss in the first quarter, double their loss in last year's first quarter, partly due to shutting down their Nextel network. They did, however, report some revenue growth.
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Parents 'aiding and abetting' under age kids on Facebook
Parents of children under thirteen are actively helping them to set-up Facebook accounts, according to the Minister for Children.
Pre-teen kids are forbidden from joining the social network, but mums and dads are "aiding and abetting," the sign up process, says MP Tim Loughton.
Children can, and of course do, quite easily enter false information about their date of birth in order to gain access to the site, but Facebook will remove underage accounts that are brought to its attention.
Personal experience
Mr Loughton, who has three children, says: "Having a Facebook page, you should be at least 13 to do that. That is not legally enforceable. We know, and I know from personal experience, the temptations for younger children to set up a Facebook site and get involved with those social media."I also know that in too many cases they do that aided and abetted by parents. So it's not just a question of giving information to parents, it's making sure parents are acting responsibly on behalf of their children too."
Despite it having no real means of enforcing the pre-teen rule, Facebook does provide a set of guidelines for parents, offering advice, but parents must want to engage says the minister.
Sexting clampdown
Meanwhile, earlier today in parliament, another MP warned of the dangers for youngsters who've sent explicit photos from their phones, or engaged in sexting.Stockport MP Ann Coffey wants the government and mobile phone companies to do more to raise awareness of the issues that often lead to photos being shared without consent.
"Once taken and sent, the sender loses control of these images and they could end up anywhere from being passed all around school to being viewed and passed on by paedophiles," she said.
"Sexting becomes a tool of coercion, threat and power as young people are encouraged to take pictures or videos or themselves, initially often for a financial reward or because they are groomed into thinking the person is their boyfriend."
She wants the government and mobile companies to pay for advertising to further educate misguided youngsters.
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Exclusive: New Flickr Uploadr introduced
Flickr has announced a new uploading interface that it promises will make sharing images on the website quicker and easier than before.
Preview and arrange
HTML 5 technology means that Flickr users can now select images for uploading by dragging them onto the browser.With supported browsers (Chrome 6, Safari 5, Firefox 8 and above), thumbnails are displayed and the images can be reordered, rotated or sorted by title.
One aim is to make it easier to sort images into sets on a particular theme or from a specific shoot or holiday.
Images can also be tagged or the licensing, privacy and description information added before they are added to your photo stream.
Flickr is also claiming that it has managed to pull off a 20-30 per cent increase in upload speed, with some international users being expected to experience a 50-60 per cent increase.
Bigger is better
In addition, aiming to meet the demands of users investing in the latest high pixel-count cameras and creating composite images, Flickr has increased the uploadable file size limit to 50MB for Pro users and 30MB for those using the free service.The changes will be rolled out over the next couple of weeks and will be added automatically, so no action is required by users.
The new Uploadr follows just a few weeks after a major revamp of Flickr's interface, which was rolled out at the end of February.
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Sony Xperia Ice Cream Sandwich update given thumbs up
Sony has posted a quick update on how the roll-out of Ice Cream Sandwich to its 2011 Xperia line up is going.
The short answer? It's going pretty well considering the Android 4.0 roll-out only began in mid-April.
The Sony Xperia Arc S, Xperia Neo and Xperia Ray updates are all "progressing as planned" with the global roll-out spreading across various countries according to schedule.
What a treat
If you're wondering exactly when, where, how, and at what strike of the clock you'll get the upgrade, you can head on over to the support forum which features a list of software kits that are customised to each handset on each network and do a spot of cross-referencing.If you can't see a mention of your own handset/network combo, it means your kit isn't ready yet and you'll have to check back later for the update.
After the neverending saga of the Gingerbread update for the Sony Ericsson Xperia X10, it's excellent to see Sony being so on it with the Ice Cream Sandwich release. See, Sony fans – dreams do come true.
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