Nikon Reveals D3200 HD-SLR And WU-1a Wi-Fi Dongle

It was only a few years ago when 720p video capabilities came to Nikon's D90. Now, 1080p is all the rage, and DSLRs are taking the place of actual camcorders when it comes to shooting music videos, television shows and even movies. Canon has benefited greatly from this shift, but Nikon's hoping to generate some interest of its own. This week, the D3200 "HD-SLR" launched, offering a 24.2MP DX-crop sensor, 1080p movie mode (with "full time autofocus"), native ISO range up to 6400 and one other, special bit. That would be the new WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter. When connected to the camera, this optional adapter can wirelessly send images to mobile devices like smartphones and tablets, preview an image before shooting and control the camera remotely.

Additionally, Nikon’s Scene Recognition System works in tandem with the camera’s 3D Color Matrix Metering II to recognize factors such as color and brightness for balanced exposures, accurate AF/ white balance and improved flash photos. Beginner photographers as well as those looking to expand their repertoire of shooting techniques will appreciate the Nikon D3200’s Guide Mode which provides step-by-step photo instructions, while users can set the Mode Dial to Portrait, Landscape, Child, Sports, Close-Up or Night Portrait, and the D3200 will automatically adjust camera settings for optimal results in a variety of conditions.

There's a 3" LCD on the rear for Live View shooting, and the 11-point autofocus system keeps things in focus. As for the big 'one more thing?' Android users are able to wirelessly transfer images from the camera to a mobile device, preview the image before shooting photos, and even remotely control the camera from up to 49 feet. The Application for use with an Android platform smartphone (2.3 series) and tablet (3.x series) is expected for release in May 2012, while iOS users can expect it in the Fall of this year.

The Nikon D3200 outfit with the AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR image stabilization lens will be available in late April 2012 for a suggested retail price of $699.95 in either Black or Red. Yes, a red DSLR. Good luck resisting that one!