The Samsung HZ15W is a new 12 megapixel camera with a 10x, 24mm wide-angle zoom lens. The step-up model from the HZ10W, which was introduced in January, the Samsung HZ15W (also known as the Samsung WB550) offers a larger 3 inch LCD screen. Just like the HZ10W, the HZ15W model has a 24-240mm lens, Dual Image Stabilization, Smart Auto, Face Detection, Smile Shot, Blink Detection, Self Portrait and Beauty Shot modes. It can also record high-definition video at a resolution of 720p and connected directly to an HDTV via the HDMI port. The Samsung HZ15W will be available in March 2009 for $329.99. In the UK the Samsung WB550 will be available in black and dark grey for £299 from April 2009.

Samsung America Press Release

HZ15W Offers 12 Mega-Pixel Resolution and 24mm, 10x Optical Zoom Schneider Lens

RIDGEFIELD PARK, N.J. – February 23, 2009 – Samsung Electronics America today unveiled a new 12 mega-pixel compact digital camera boasting a 24mm ultra-wide angle Schneider lens. The new HZ15W, Samsung’s second mega-zoom, point-and-shoot digital camera, offers consumers one of the most powerful lenses on a compact point-and-shoot with an impressive focal length of 24-240mm (35mm film equivalent).

The step up model from the HZ10W introduced in January at CES 2009, the 12 mega-pixel HZ15W offers consumers one of the most powerful lenses on a compact point-and-shoot digital camera, featuring a 24mm ultra-wide angle Schneider lens coupled with a generous 10x optical zoom. For blur-free images, especially when using the HZ15W at its maximum zoom, Samsung includes both Optical and Digital Image Stabilization. Optical Image Stabilization can be used independently or shooters can choose Dual Image Stabilization, which combines the strengths of Optical and Digital Image Stabilization.

Like the HZ10W, the HZ15W puts high-definition video recording in the palm of users’ hands. With the HZ15W, consumers have the ability to record high-definition video at a resolution of 720p, and utilize the camera’s full 10x optical zoom. Samsung also incorporates H.264 compression and offers consumers true HDMI connectivity, which allows the camera to be connected directly to an HDTV without the need for a cradle.  Additionally, the HZ15W’s ultra-clear, three-inch LCD screen is sure to turn heads and gives consumers the ability to easily frame their shots and review their images and video in any condition, even in direct sunlight.

Designed for a range of consumers, including entry-level photographers and advanced amateurs, the HZ15W offers a variety of shooting modes, including Manual. The camera’s Manual shooting mode allows users to manually configure settings such as shutter speed, aperture, exposure, and ISO values. Similar to the TL320, the HZ15W also features a highly intuitive suite of automatic controls designed to help improve one’s ability to take great digital images. The camera’s advanced automatic shooting options include Face Detection, Smile Shot, Blink Detection, Beauty Shot, as well as Smart Auto, which automatically selects the appropriate scene mode for the user, and Smart Album, which simplifies the process of searching for an image saved on a memory card.

HZ15W Specifications
Mega-Pixels 12.0 mega-pixels
Optical Zoom 10x optical zoom / Schneider lens
LCD Size 3.0” TFT-LCD (230k pixels)
Lens Schneider Lens f = 4.2 ~ 42mm (35mm equivalent : 24~240mm)
Movie Mode 720P HD Resolution
Size 105 X 61.4 X 37.2 mm
Special Features - 24mm Ultra-Wide-Angle Schneider Lens
- 10x Optical Zoom
- High-Definition 720p Video With HDMI Connectivity
- Dual Image Stabilization (Optical + Digital)
- Smart Auto / Smart Album
- Face Detection / Smile Shot / Blink Detection
  Self Portrait / Beauty Shot / Red-eye Fix
- Function Description, Photo Style Selector
- Frame Guide
- Recycle Bin

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