Nikon's New Android-Powered Coolpix S800c Point-and-Shoot Camera • Camera News and Reviews

Nikon’s New Android-Powered Coolpix S800c Point-and-Shoot Camera

Nikon has taken the Wi-Fi camera concept to a new level with their new Android-powered Coolpix S800c digital camera. The Nikon Coolpix S800c looks more like a Smart Phone than a camera from the display side and with a touch screen OLED display, Internet connectivity and an Android operating system, it’s just one step short of a Smart Phone. But unlike a Smart Phone, it’s got a real 10x optical zoom lens and a state-of-the-art 16-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor. And unlike other point-and-shoot cameras, it allows you to use your favorite Android mobile apps and social networking sites as long as you have access to a Wi-Fi network with Internet access.

“Designed for the always connected individual, the S800c delivers the high picture quality and superior performance expected from a Nikon camera coupled with communication functions and app-based versatility of a smartphone or tablet.”

I think that quote from Nikon’s S800c press release says it all. Powered by Android OS version 2.3, the Coolpix S800c gives you nearly everything – real camera features and image quality as well as true connectivity. The only thing missing is an actual phone. And that can’t be far away now that Nikon has got the ball rolling. The thing I like the most about the S800c is the 10x optical zoom. In my opinion, the biggest limitation with camera phones is the fixed lens. I need more than that. The S800c’s 10x 25-250mm (equivalent) optical zoom with Nikon’s VR optical image stabilization offers a great range, from true wide-angle to real telephoto. The S800c also has 1080p full HD video, built-in GPS and a 3.5-inch OLED touchscreen display.

The Nikon Coolpix S800c is only the beginning. The camera itself is a pretty straightforward point-and-shoot targeted at the general consumer market. Personally, I can’t wait to see this kind of connectivity in higher end compact cameras and possibly even digital SLRs! Thank you Nikon for taking the first step!

The Android-powered Nikon Coolpix S800c digital camera will be available next month (September, 2012). It will come in white or black and sell for a suggested retail price of US $349.95.

Nikon Coolpix S800c Press Release >>