Panasonic recently announced their LX100, a camera made to go head to head with Sony’s RX100. I think it would have been smarter to release a 1″ sensor camera that size-wise would match the Sony RX100, but Panasonic hasn’t completely forgone pocketable — Check out the Panasonic CM1, an Android phone with a 1″ sensor, which easily gives it the biggest sensor in a smartphone in the world.
Panasonic CM1 review RAM & ROM storage
The CM1 will have 2GB of RAM. As 1GB of RAM easily gives Android enough space to run smoothly, 2GB can be considered great. The storage of 16GB is more than enough given that it can accept external SD cards up to 128GB.
Panasonic CM1 review SoC
The SoC in the CM1 will be Snapdragon 801. As with the RAM and storage, the SoC is beyond adequate.
Panasonic CM1 review camera
What I’m really looking forward to here is the relatively huge sensor in the CM1. It’s a 1″ 20mp sensor. Though Panasonic will never tell, it’s likely the same sensor as what’s in the Sony RX100.
The camera will have full manual settings and allow ISO from 100-25,600. It can shoot 4K video and capture RAW images as well.
The CM1 hasn’t forgotten about selfies and video chat, as it will incorporate a 1.1MP front camera in addition to the amazing rear.
Panasonic CM1 review battery, LCD & design
The battery in the CM1 will be 2600mA and have a 4.7″ display.
Amazingly, the CM1 doesn’t look much thicker than an average modern mobile. The style is decidedly retro with a touch of metro.
Panasonic review conclusion
“I give huge props to Panasonic for putting out this record breaking mobile”
What’s not to love? The price. The expected retail price will be 900 euro (approximately $1200).
It’s tough to guess how successful the CM1 will be. I’m just not sure where this one fits in in the scheme of things. The CM1 may be coming a bit before it’s time.
That’s not to say it won’t be successful, there still may be a tight niche market for the CM1. The main issue here is price. The huge majority of the digital public would never spend $1200 on a camera phone and serious photographers, whether they’re looking for a pocketable camera to compliment their DSLR, or enthusiasts looking for a main camera, will be considering cameras with more physical controls and more serious looking.
Evidently Panasonic has similar feelings, as initially it will be released in Germany and it hasn’t been made clear whether it will be coming to other markets or not.
I give huge props to Panasonic for putting out this record breaking mobile and I’m very curious to see how this bold venture from Panasonic pans out.
The camera wars are really heating up. Nokia, Samsung and Apple will all be putting hardware image stabilization in their flagship mobiles.
Panasonic just released a mind blowing 4/3 sensor in their upcoming LX100 and now the CM1, a slick 1″ sensor mobile/enthusiast camera combo. Things are just starting to get interesting as the big boys battle it out for your shutterbug dollar.
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