According to their strategic partnership, Nikon keeps using the Sony digital sensors as they are brought to them (at least, for the entry-level and mid-range DSLR photo cameras). This approach allowed Nikon to produce a few good cameras. Today, with the announcement of the Nikon D3200, the same strategy still works:

1. Sony created a nice sensor (here an APS-C 24Mp imaging sensor)
2. Sony starts using it (in the SLT-A77, SLT-A65 and NEX-7)
3. Nikon applies it again as fast as possible within its own range: starting with the Nikon D3200

Advantage? Very good sensors (Sony is good at their design), available in large quantities, where Nikon plugs its excellent images software/firmware handling. The result should be a very attractive camera. What about the Nikon D3200?

As a matter of fact, te Nikon D3200 exhibits a rather beautiful collection of nice features:

• An APS-C 24 MP digital sensor (We can expect that Nikon will produce pictures slightly better than from Sony on the NEX-7 or the A77)
• The improvement of sensitivity (ISO 6400 now in standard and ISO 12800 in extended mode) seems limited but will have to be checked in future tests
• Full-HD 1080p video capture (and a connector for external microphone)
• A 3″ LCD display on the back with 920.000 pixels
• A black suit (very traditional) or a red coat (much wilder)

The external design is evolving slowly (compared to the previous Nikon DSLR, the grip is slightly slanted). But more importantly, the controls are changing with a video button now at the top of the body (very near the photo button).

An additional module will also allow to Wifi-connect to an Android phone or tablet (iPhone/iOS will only come a little later).

The probable price: $700 with he 18-55mm standard zoom, as soon as the end of April 2012 (so, very soon).

Links

• Sample images de Nikon
• Presentation of the D3200 at Nikon USA
• Presentation of the D3200 at Nikon global

Press Release