Sony Unveils Alpha 1 II Camera, Along With New E-Mount Lens

Sony has just announced the second generation of its flagship Alpha 1 series mirrorless camera, the Alpha 1 II (ɑ1 II). It retains some of the major components from its predecessor, like the 50.1-megapixel stacked CMOS sensor and 30FPS continuous shooting, though there are some changes like the inclusion of more AI features and some minor design changes.

Sony Alpha 1 II

Some of the newly added features include the Pre-Capture function enables capturing images up to one second before the shutter is pressed, while Continuous Shooting Speed Boost allows users to change the burst shooting speed. Real-time Recognition AF is now infused with AI processing, capable of recognizing and tracking subjects like humans, animals, vehicles, and more – all without the need to specify the subject first through the new ‘Auto’ setting.

The Alpha 1 II also includes an anti-distortion shutter for reduced distortion and improved noise performance at mid-to-high sensitivity levels, while optical image stabilization (OIS) is improved to up to 8.5 stops for stills and supports Dynamic Active Mode for video.

Ergonomic updates include a 3.2-inch LCD monitor with a 4-axis multi-angle design, a redesigned grip, repositioned shutter button, and “evolved custom buttons.” The camera also includes a new FDA-EP21 deep-type padded eyepiece cup for additional viewing comfort, though the standard one will be installed by default.

The Sony Alpha 1 II will be available in Malaysia starting December 2024, with no local pricing announced yet – but based on the US MSRP which comes at an eye-watering $6,499 for just the body (unchanged from the predecessor), expect the local pricing to be well into twenty grand (for reference, Alpha 1 is currently sold for up to RM27,599).

Sony FE 28-70mm F2 G Master

Sony has also announced the FE 28-70mm F2 G Master, its first full-frame E-mount standard zoom lens with a constant F2 aperture across the entire zoom range. It features three XA elements for sharp corner-to-corner resolution, Super ED and ED glass to minimize chromatic aberration, and Nano AR Coating II to reduce flare and ghosting. Minimal focus distance is 0.38m, Sony says, and it comes with four XD linear motors for autofocus tracking.

Its dimensions are measured at 92.9 x 139.8 mm, weighing at 918 grams; on the lens you also get Linear Response MF, adjustable zoom ring torque, and an aperture ring with a click on/off switch. There’s also an iris lock switch, AF/MF switch, and two focus hold buttons. Like the Alpha 1 II, this new lens will also be available in Malaysia starting this December.

Pokdepinion: Small updates in general – but it does fix a few things the original lacked.