Sony today introduced their first POV cameras to feature the Balanced Optical SteadyShot (B.O.SS) image stabilization technology, the FDR-X3000R 4K model and HDR-AS300R Full HD model. The flagship feature of the two new cameras - Balanced Optical SteadyShot - is an advanced form of image stabilization where internally, the camera's lens and sensor are joined and moved together to compensate for camera shake caused by excessive motion, whether shooting handheld with optional accessories or during a fast-paced sporting activity. This is a particularly effective technology when paired with a POV action camera design as it ensures captured video footage is smooth and stable - even in 4K or high-frame-rate shooting modes.

The new FDR-X3000R and HDR-AS300R Action Cam feature a new ZEISS Tessar lens with less lens distortion than previous models. They are also equipped with a new back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor with large pixels designed for 16:9 aspect ratio video plus a BIONZ X processor.

The ncameras utilize full pixel readout without pixel binning technology to produce high resolution and accurate colors in both 4K (FDR-X3000R only) and Full HD videos. This allows them to read and process data from all of the sensor's pixels, producing detailed video content with minimal noise and 'jaggies' in a variety of formats including the high data stream XAVC S codec (100Mbps in 4K and 50Mbps in Full HD). The FDR-X3000R can also shoot 120p in Full HD and HDR-AS300R can shoot 120p in HD for slow-motion footage. Both cameras offer a new angle of view adjustment, with a 3x smooth zoom or preset "wide", "medium" and "narrow" settings.

FDR-X3000R and HDR-AS300R each have a built-in stereo mic with wind noise reduction to reduce the impact of wind interference on overall audio quality, and are equipped with stereo microphone input for recording.

Sony's new Action Cam models will be offered in a kit with a compact Live-View Remote that is about 30% smaller than previous versions. The remote, with a mountable design, acts as an extension of the camera and allows users to see what is being recorded when the camera is not accessible. The remote has the ability to control various functionalities including shooting settings, start/stop recording, power on/off and more. It also features an "auto display off" mode that turns off its LCD screen display automatically during shooting in order to save power of both camera and remote.

The remote accessory can be attached to various optional accessories such as Finger Grip (AKA-FGP1), Shooting Grip (VCT-STG1) or Handlebar Mount (VCT-HM2) using supplied mount adaptor, or worn as a wristband using supplied belt. Users can also utilize Sony's PlayMemories Mobile application – available for both Android and iOS – to control the new Action Cam with a smart device.

The new models also offer "Wi-Fi high power mode," which extends to communication distance between the camera and Live-View Remote for more flexible shooting.

The FDR-X3000R and HDR-AS300R both include a Time-lapse Capture feature that shoots still images in pre-set intervals that can later be transformed into a 4K time-lapse movie utilizing the Action Cam Movie Creator software. The Action Cam App can also create time-lapse movies in Full HD.

Built-in GPS inherited from previous models is available, allowing location tracking and speedometer to be added to the video file when Action Cam Movie Creator is used. This also allows GPS Data Overlay on video to read your speed data and generate another video file that includes your route, speed information, etc.

Additionally, an updated version of Sony's own in-built movie creator – Highlight Movie Maker – is available in the new cameras. The feature, which now utilizes face detection technology, automatically assembles footage into a video highlight package and pairs it with custom music.

For the more advanced user, there are an expanded scope of manual controls and setting adjustments including white balance, and auto exposure shifting. Loop recording is also available, allowing users to maximize usage of available memory card space.

The FDR-X3000R and HDR-AS300R have a splash-proof body and are waterproof with supplied Underwater Housing (MPK-UWH1) that is certified down to 197 ft. / 60m in depth.

The Sony FDR-X3000 will be sold as body only for about $400 US ($550 CA), and will be offered as a kit (model FDR-X3000R) with the new Live-View Remote for about $550 US ($700 CA).

The Sony HDR-AS300 will be sold as a body only for about $300 US ($400 CA) and will be offered as a kit (model HDR-AS300R) with the new Live-View Remote for about $450 US ($550 CA).

The AKA-FGP1 finger grip will be sold for about $25 US ($40 CA), and the AKA-MCP1 lens shield will be sold for about $35 US ($50 CA).

All products will be available in North America in late September.