Samsung's $1600 Galaxy NX Camera Merges Android With Prosumer Photography

There's really no arguing it: the smartphone camera is killing the conventional point-and-shoot. There's just no great reason to carry around a $200+ compact camera, when high-end phones like the iPhone boast such capable sensors in a product that most Americans already tote around daily. So, what's a camera company to do? Pivot. Samsung produces both low-end and high-end cameras, as well as smartphones, and it's merging the two to some extent with the Galaxy NX.


Positioned as a unique member of the successful Galaxy line, the Galaxy NX is said to be the first connected Compact System Camera (CSC). It's effectively an interchangeable lens camera with Android onboard, boasting a massive touch-panel on the rear and no physical buttons in exchange. The camera utilizes Android 4.2 (Jelly Bean), and users can choose from a variety of Android apps to help personalize their camera, edit their photos, and even upload to social services like Instagram.


Specs wise, there's a 20.3MP APS-C sensor, DRIMe IV Image Signal Processor, quick 8.6fps shooting, and support for a host of swappable lenses. There's also Wi-Fi, of course, for staying connected and handling uploads. At $1599.99 for the body alone, it's also one of the more pricey cameras in this segment, and those with an extra $100 sitting around can spring for the bundle -- which includes a 18-55mm lens. Somethings tells us a price drop will be happening in short order, though.