Sony Announces NEX-5R Hybrid with Wi-Fi and Downloadable Apps

After outing the NEX-F3 back in the spring, it's only logical to see Sony announce a replacement for the NEX-5N. So here it is, the NEX-5R, a camera that looks very similar to its predecessor. On the outside, the only real change is the arrival of a new settings thumb-wheel, but on the inside, this updated hybrid has been treated to a new sensor, Wi-Fi connectivity and access to an app store.


First of all, we're disappointed to see that there's no built-in flash in the NEX-5R. Sony recently made this welcome addition to the entry-level NEX-F3, but the mid-range NEX is still left wanting in the 2012 series.

But the lack of flash means that the NEX-5R keeps the same ultra-compact body as the NEX-5N—a camera that stands out for being more squat than its lenses, as the lens mount and the handle jut out above and below the actual camera body. Handling has taken a step forwards in this 2012 edition, though, with the arrival of a new settings wheel inspired by those seen in the NEX-7, as well as direct access to the Quick menu. The tilt screen also now tilts a full 180° upwards, which is great for self-portraits. And, unlike the NEX-F3 screen, this display still tilts to 40° downwards, which is enough to help you line up shots above a crowds, for example.

Like its predecessor, the NEX-5R uses a 16-Megapixel CMOS sensor, but this updated version has 99 phase detection sensors built in to the CMOS. This kind of sensor has already been seen in Fuji, plus Nikon and Canon cameras, and allows the autofocus system to work in the same way as an SLR AF, speeding things up and greatly improving subject tracking, which is especially handy in video and burst modes.

The NEX-5R has even been treated to Wi-Fi, so you can send your snaps to a smartphone, a PC or a DLNA-compatible TV.

Optional Functions

One major new feature of this camera is that, once connected to the Internet, the NEX-5R can download all kinds of extra applications from a special Sony store. You'll therefore be able to customise your camera by adding extras like creative filters, an interval timer, advanced shooting modes, a smartphone remote control app, etc.

Some of the apps will be free while others will be to pay for, and users with several compatible devices will be able to install them on their various gadgets. However, for the time being, Sony has no plans to open up the store to third-party developers. Plus, we'll be interested to see how this function will be integrated into the camera—it seems that there won't be any direct shortcuts to the apps installed, so you'll have to access them via a special apps menu each time you want to use them.

All in all, the NEX-5R brings a certain number of interesting new functions to Sony's mid-range mirrorless camera, especially the ability to download and install extra apps (something we've been waiting to see since the arrival of the smartphone). However, this NEX still has the odd rather surprising limitation—for starters, the cheaper model has a built-in flash while this higher-end (and more expensive) model still has to be used with a screw-in accessory (supplied).

The Sony NEX-5R has been announced at €750 in Europe. That works out at about £600 in a straight conversion, but actual UK pricing is still to be confirmed.

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