Photography news, before it happens

Another German site leak:

The different price configurations for the Sony a500 and a850 are also available on the same page.

Original German language link | Google translated English link (detailed specs available):

Sony A500:

• ISO up to 12,8000
• 5 fps
• 9 points AF system
• Max shutter speed of 1/4000th
• October 2009 availability

Sony a500, there will also be an a550 model

Sony A850:

• 24 mp EXMOR sensor, image stabilized
• No live view
• 3 fps
• Viewfinder: 98% coverage, 0.74x magnification
• 3″ 921k dot LCD
• September 2009 availability

Sony a850: "the first small-full frame DSLR"

A reader sent me a detailed translation of the Sony invitation for the event in Hong Kong on August 28th (thanks Rebel):

“Released of new Alpha Cameras on Aug 28,
designed for photo enthusiast,
advanced technologies… superb DSLR functions… bla bla…
new Exmor CMOS sensor,
strength Quick AF Live View and high speed continuous shooting,
capture beautiful smiles,
share fantastic photos easily,
With new lenses, these cameras will bring exciting photographic experiences…”

Unless the translation is not accurate, we should expect more than one Sony α DSLR. They also mentioned a “new Exmor CMOS sensor”. The “share fantastic photos easily” part smells like a built-in Wi-Fi. My bets are for α500, α550 and α850.

Sony sent out press invitation for August 25th in Taiwan with the slogan: ”Most exciting new α series DSLR is coming”. The previous report was for a press conference on August 27th or 28th. The dates may vary in the different parts of the world. Sony α850 is expected and maybe more.