Ricoh's CX3 to get back-illuminated CMOS sesnor and 720p video

Ricoh unveiled its new CX3 yesterday, updating its line of compact cameras with a new back-illuminated CMOS sensor, 720p video and automatic scene recognition.

At first sight, the Ricoh CX3 isn't that much different from its predecessor the CX2.  Both models share the same 28-300 mm 10.7x f/3.5-5.6 wide-angle zoom with a macro mode at 1 cm; the same mechanical stabilisation: the same excellent 3'' 920 00 pixel VGA display; the same joystick-based interface to get through exposure settings and the same collection of useful little extras like a electronic spirit level, immediate shutter release in snap mode and bracketing.

In the past though, Ricoh's cameras have all too often struggled to produce quality photos and electronic noise handling that didn't keep with the competition.  Ricoh has decided to take the bull by the horns with the CX3 by fitting a back-illuminated CMOS sensor which should be much more comfortable with higher sensitivities.  Of course, we'll have to see how it performs in the field.