DUBAI: Sony\'s new 3D-enabled cameras are set to be available in Bahrain by the end of the month. Sony plans to launch its new range of Alpha cameras, lenses and other accessories across the world in November, but has chosen an early release for the Middle East and North Africa.

The cameras, which are available in two types - for amateurs and professionals - include one with the world\'s fastest shutter speed compact interchangeable lens.

Speaking at a launch ceremony in Dubai, Sony Gulf managing director Osamu Miura said there was a clear market need for cameras offering superb responsiveness, image quality and creativity.

"These cameras will not only bring new user experiences to our customers and the world of digital imaging, but they will also enable Sony to accelerate its position as a top-tier camera brand," he said.

Mr Miuri said the new cameras were lightweight and user-friendly and a special shape had been introduced for female users.

"Unlike conventional digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras two models, for example SLT-A55 and SLT-A33, enable super-fast shooting responses with full-time continuous AF during stills and HD video shooting in a compact body," he said.

Mr Miuri said another first of its kind was the Alpha SLT-A77 - the world\'s fastest 12 frames per second full-resolution continuous shooting camera with high-precision phase-detection autofocus.

"Budding film makers will also benefit from a number of enhanced video capabilities in the SLT-A77," he said.

Sony is studying linking the new cameras directly to social networks like Facebook, Twitter or YouTube directly without the need of uploading into PCs or laptops.

"Now people can download pictures the traditional way into their computers, but in future we are studying to have the next brand as WiFi-enabled," said Mr Miuri.

"Our cameras can now take 3D panoramic pictures as users can take up to 16 pictures in 0.02 seconds and then watch them on their 3D screens with special glasses.

"We are still studying the option of having direct 3D view in the regular still cameras."