SoftBank intros handset with 8MP CCD camera

Sharp executives believe the SoftBank 930SH handset, which Sharp helped to develop, features the highest quality camera of any handset. Its integrated 8-megapixel camera sports a 1/2.5-inch CCD sensor usually found in actual digital cameras rather than the CMOS sensor in most other handsets. Another spec not usually found in camera phones includes the maximum ISO setting of 2500, making it suitable for taking legible photos in low-light environments. A mechanical shutter is used, and can be left open longer to help with capturing images in darker situations, while a neutral density filter helps in reducing glare when shooting outdoors on sunny days. In addition, there is a CMOS camera facing the user that will allow for making video calls.

The tri-band GSM handset is capable of accessing WCDMA and HSDPA data networks. Users interface via a 3-inch, 480x854 main display. A GPS sensor is built into the handset, as is a 1Seg TV Tuner module and Bluetooth functionality. The 930SH has 100MB of internal memory, which is backed up by a microSDHC memory card slot for adding as much as 4GB of space. The handset also sports a new battery gauge that displays remaining life in terms of percentage and time.

SoftBank makes it easier to upload photos to a set blog site with a function that saves an e-mail template including a required password to post the photo on a host site, shortening the process and making it a one-button operation.

The SoftBank is due for a release in Japan sometime in November, though prices have not yet been announced. [via Tech-on]