Sony upgrades digital camera offerings

Sony is upgrading several of its digital still cameras with higher resolution image sensors.

The DSC-W55 and W35 both sport 7.2-megapixel image sensors, which is an upgrade on the 6-megapixel W50 and W30 models currently on sale. Similarly the DSC-S650 and S-700 both offer a 1-megapixel jump over the current 6-megapixel S600 model.

The image resolution bump puts the W35 and W55 at the same level as Sony's W70 model. All three cameras offer 7.2-megapixel resolution while the top-of-the-line W100 model packs an 8.1-megapixel sensor.

Other major features remain unchanged. All four cameras have a 3X optical zoom lens, blur-reduction setting and internal memory so some pictures can be taken without a memory card. They all accept Memory Stick Duo-type memory cards.

The W35 and W55 will be available in the U.S. in February for $180 and $200, respectively. Both the current W30 and W50 cost $200, so the prices represent a drop for the former model and a higher-spec at an unchanged price for the latter camera. The S650 will go on sale in the same month for $150 and the S700 will be available from March for $180.

Sony will begin accepting preorders online from Jan. 23.

Overseas launch plans have not been announced but Sony typically follows with local announcements within days or weeks.