Sony announces new Alpha 1 II flagship and its first constant-aperture zoom lens

The New Alpha 1 II - Second Generation Flagship Full-frame Camera

A combination of high resolution, speed, and AI recognition, designed for diverse professional applications

Sony introduces the second-generation Alpha™ 1 II, a new flagship full-frame mirrorless interchangeable lens camera powered by Sony’s latest AI processing unit. The camera features an approximately 50.1 MP (megapixels) effective sensor resolution, up to 30 frames per second (fps) blackout-free continuous shooting with AF/AE tracking^[1], as well as a distortion-free shutter and improved image clarity at mid to high sensitivities. The AI processing unit provides advanced subject recognition and includes a new "Auto" mode that recognizes a wide range of subjects. The Alpha 1 II also inherits innovations from the Alpha 9 III, including a pre-capture function of up to one second^[2] and an improved ergonomic design. The camera is lightweight – approximately 743 grams^[3], making it suitable for various professional situations.

“The original Alpha 1 was a groundbreaking product launched in 2021, but since then, Sony has developed a number of new technologies. That's why we have incorporated all our latest innovations into the new Alpha™ 1 II model,” commented Yann Salmon Legagneur, Head of Marketing, Photo and Video Products, Sony Europe. “The Alpha 1 II is designed to provide maximum versatility, combining resolution, speed, AI subject recognition, and workflow efficiency. It is a specialized tool for professionals in photojournalism, advertising, portraiture, wedding and sports photography, as well as wildlife photography.”

In a world with increasing technology and the growing role of artificial intelligence, the ability to authenticate the authenticity of a photo is more important than ever. Images captured with the Alpha 1 II will be compatible^[4] with a solution that adds real-time authenticity information^[5] to help combat manipulated images and AI-generated fakes.

A combination of high resolution, speed, and artificial intelligence

Alpha™ 1 II creates high-resolution images with a wide dynamic range by combining the full-frame Exmor RS® CMOS sensor with approximately 50.1 effective megapixels and the latest BIONZ XR® image processor. The camera captures high-resolution images even in APS-C mode, capturing approximately 21 effective megapixels.

The camera also offers blackout-free high-speed continuous shooting with automatic AF/AE tracking up to 30 fps^[6], capable of tracking complex movements through automatic AF/AE calculations up to 120 times per second^[7]. Additionally, it includes the highly desired Pre-Capture function, which allows images to be captured up to one second before the button is pressed^[8], as well as an increase in continuous shooting speed, which can temporarily change the burst shooting speed.

The Alpha 1 II also features an added real-time autofocus recognition mode, thanks to the AI processing unit. This technology maintains focus on subjects, including human pose recognition that instantly identifies the head and torso, as well as accurate tracking of animals, birds, insects, and vehicles. The Alpha 1 II introduces the latest evolution of real-time focus with the newly added "Auto" function, which allows the camera to automatically recognize subjects without the need for a specific mode^[9].

Stable shooting with reduced distortion and noise

To meet the need for high speed required by many professionals, the Alpha 1 II features a shutter that reduces distortion during shooting. The low noise levels at mid to high sensitivities, required by professional photographers, are also improved through fine-tuning, allowing images to be captured with minimal noise and clean backgrounds even in indoor sports events where high shutter speeds are necessary.

Furthermore, the Alpha™ 1 II has impressively improved optical image stabilization of up to 8.5 stops (center) and 7.0 stops (peripheral)^[10] when shooting stills, as well as a newly supported Dynamic Active Mode for video recording^[11].

Convenient operation and high workflow efficiency

Alpha™ 1 II features a 3.2-inch LCD display with a long-awaited 4-axis multi-angle design that can be freely adjusted to any angle. The body of the second-generation camera has improved ergonomics compared to the original Alpha 1 model, including careful updates to the grip design, shutter button position, and advanced customizable buttons.

Alpha™ 1 II also includes a new deep eyecup (model FDA-EP21), providing additional viewing comfort. A standard eyecup is factory-attached to the camera, but it can be replaced with the deep eyecup option according to user preference.

For additional battery support, the Alpha™ 1 II comes with a BC-ZD1 dual charger. It quickly and stably charges two Z batteries (model NP-FZ100) simultaneously to a full charge in 155 minutes^[12]. Additionally, the VG-C5 vertical grip^[13], compatible with the model, provides additional ergonomic support and improved battery performance, suitable for longer shooting sessions.

For professionals seeking a fast solution for real-time image transfer, the Alpha™ 1 II supports 2.5GBASE-T via wired LAN connection. Additionally, in combination with the portable 5G transmitter PDT-FP1 (sold separately), captured data can be transmitted via stable, high-speed 5G communication. This high level of connectivity significantly improves workflows from data transfer to content creation and distribution, enhancing the efficiency of professionals' work.

In addition, captured data can be automatically transferred to Adobe Lightroom™ or Google Drive™ via Sony's cloud service, Creators' Cloud^[14], making post-shooting editing even more convenient.

Environmentally friendly packaging

With a priority on sustainability, the packaging for this model is entirely plastic-free, making it the first Alpha series camera (excluding the ZV series) to use Sony's original blended material – a unique combination of bamboo, sugarcane, and recycled paper^[15].

The Alpha™ 1 II will be available for delivery in December 2024.

Sony Announces First G Master™ Standard Zoom Lens with Constant F2 Aperture

The ultimate full-frame E-mount lens for content creators, offering high resolution, beautiful bokeh, and advanced autofocus

Sony introduces the FE 28-70mm F2, GM^[16] – a premium E-mount lens with a large F2 aperture across the entire zoom range. It offers beautiful bokeh, high resolution, and unrivaled autofocus for both stills and video, with sharpness and contrast comparable to premium prime lenses^[17]. This exceptional combination is realized in a compact, lightweight, and well-balanced design, providing professionals and content creators the freedom to capture a variety of scenes with just one lens, such as portraits, weddings, sports, documentaries, and cinematic video.

Sharp and precise imaging in a unique standard zoom lens with a constant F2 aperture

FE 28-70mm F2 GM is the first G Master standard zoom lens with a constant F2 aperture, making it ideal for stills and video with exceptional creative scope. The advanced design and optical simulation result in image quality comparable to a prime lens. The three XA (extreme aspherical) elements ensure high resolution from corner to corner at F2 across the entire zoom range. Floating focus ensures sharpness even at close focusing distances of 0.38m across the entire zoom range.

Sony's original Nano AR Coating II minimizes flares, and optical elements designed to suppress internal reflections provide additional resistance to light aberrations, ensuring clarity even with a strong light source in the frame. G Master optics deliver exquisite, soft bokeh, thanks to carefully controlled spherical aberration at the design and manufacturing stages, with XA elements and a newly developed 11-blade aperture mechanism. Super ED (extra-low dispersion) and ED glass effectively reduce chromatic aberrations.

Compact and lightweight lens with exceptional optics and functionality

FE 28-70mm F2 GM offers worry-free shooting, combining the benefits of a zoom lens with uncompromising image quality. Innovative technologies, including advanced optics and XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors, make it possible to create a constant F2 zoom lens with dimensions of only 92.9 x 139.8 mm and a weight of just 918 grams.

Precise and reliable AF tracking with instant response

Four XD (extreme dynamic) linear motors and a new algorithm precisely control the large and heavy focus group. This ensures reliable tracking and instant response, which are essential for events such as weddings or sports, where every shot is important. The lens is fully compatible with the high-speed continuous shooting of the α9 III with AF/AE tracking up to 120 fps^[18], and tracking continues even during zooming.

Designed for sophisticated, expressive film production

Utilizing the latest optical technologies, Sony's lens effectively suppresses focus breathing, resulting in advanced cinematic visuals. Focusing and zoom effects can be used with the F2 depth of field to create smooth, natural transitions, and critical focusing when recording at high frame rates (4K 120p/FHD 240p)^[19] is easy thanks to the high performance of AF tracking. XD linear motors and a newly developed aperture mechanism operate quietly and support breathing compensation^[20] in the α series, further enhancing image stabilization in "Active Mode"^[21].

Convenience and reliability that meet professional requirements

Important control features include Linear Response MF for intuitive manual focus, adjustable zoom ring resistance, and an aperture ring with on/off switching. In addition, the lens features two customizable focus hold buttons, an iris lock switch, and an AF/MF switch. The filter diameter is 86mm, and the lens hood has a window for easy operation with variable filters, with the design prioritizing user convenience.

Buttons and switches have silicone seals, the lens mount includes a rubber ring, and all other critical areas are carefully designed to prevent dust and moisture intrusion^[22], ensuring maximum reliability in challenging outdoor conditions. The fluorine coating on the front element effectively repels dirt and facilitates cleaning.

The FE 28-70mm F2 GM will be available in December 2024 at an approximate price of 7,199 BGN.