Samsung launches trio of L-series cameras

Samsung this morning upgraded its L-series point-and-shoot cameras with three new models that all add more resolution and better software-based image processing to the equation. The 8.2-megapixel L83T (pictured) adds the company's self-developed Advanced Shake Reduction technique that stabilizes the image in programming without a significant sacrifice in quality; rather than boost ISO and add noise, the system detects movement and alters the image itself in response. A Wise Shot mode also uses the feature to produce ideal night shots: the method snaps one picture with ASR and one with flash, letting the user pick whichever generates the best quality.

This slimmer model of Samsung's introductions also features ISO settings up to 1600, face detection for portraits, and MPEG-4 movie capture up to 800x592 at full speed on SD cards up to 4GB in size. Samsung expects to launch the camera in the UK in August for £179 ($362). A release for North American stores is anticipated but has yet to receive a formal announcement.

Also launching today are the 7.2-megapixel L730 and 8.1-megapixel L830. Both are more conventional upgrades to the earlier camera line without the benefit of ASR but which gain face detection, a relatively new feature for the series; they also share the ISO 1600 threshold and the high resolution movie mode. They should join the L83T in its August UK launch as well as in a later US release at prices of £119 ($241) for the L730 and £149 ($302) for the L830.