Samsung A990 with 3.2 MP cam shoots to Verizon

We don't cover too many "dumb" phones (and I mean that in the nicest possible sense), but the Samsung A990 is worth a mention. Phone Scoop indicates that this CDMA phone is now available on the Verizon Wireless site for $350 after rebates and the obligatory two-year contract. The A990 is the first phone in the U.S and on the Verizon network to sport a 3.2 megapixel camera, which is far better than the standard 1.3 megapixel flavor.

The A990 has plenty of other bells and whistles including a swivel-screen, EV-DO and VCast support as well as Bluetooth, plus the official press release indicates it supports the DUN profile. Oh, and it makes phone calls too...

-kct

Comments

[Alan A. Reiter]

It's great that Verizon has launched a 3.2 megapixel camera phone. But just remember: The number of pixels is not the sole measurement of image quality....especially with camera phones.

Alas, camera phones typically produce images that are significantly worse than digital cameras. The quality of the lens, sensor, internal software, flash, etc. are generally worse than a typical camera phone.

Cost constraints + size constraints + ruggedness constraints are killers for camera phones when it comes to having components comparable to digital cameras.

I'm a huge fan of camera phones (for photos and taking videos), but no one should assume the new Samsung produces images that are comparable to a digital camera.

It's certainly not impossible to create a camera phone that takes great photos, but most take mediocre images at best.

[Joe]

WOW! What an awesome piece of equipment! Finally, a great phone AND great camera in one nice package!
This phone just feels good in your hand. It is a great fit around your face when talking on the handset. The speakerphone is super loud...enough volume to be able to hear someone while driving down a freeway.
And the camera...fantastic! Of course, my daughter just bought a compact Nikon 6.0 megapixel camera and it takes awesome shots...BUT...she doesn't have a phone on it!
The A990 camera is 3.2 mp, and is wonderful, PRINTABLE quality. It even has autofocus...which will take just a little getting used to, but worth it!
Yes, the A990 is a little pricey, but have you seen what just that quality camera sells for without a phone?
This phone is worth every penny! Thanks Samsung! Now if Verizon would loosen up the Bluetooth OBEX a bit, I would rate it a 12 on a scale of 10!!

[Greg]

I have been able to find a handful of photos taken with this camera online by people who are just now getting this phone, and they ARE decent. I've been into digicams for quite some time and my opinion is that the 3MP A990 takes images that are the same quality as the mid-range 1.3MP consumer digital cameras did maybe 3-4 years ago. The autofocus does take sharper pics than when you use it without autofocus (but users comment on a 2 second shutter lag when using the autofocus).

I tinkered with some of the pics and was able to make presentable 4x6 prints from them once I post processed (I use Paint Shop Pro), so I think unless someone wants perfection, many will be satisfied with the image quality if all they want are web shots and small print shots. Just don't rely on it to be as fast ad a "real" digital camera, and remember, no zoom.

[dok do is our land]

You could get this phone for free at any korea town wireless phone dealer in L.A. or N.Y. N.Y.
for free or just $50 for sign a 1 year contract not like other autherized dealer which you got to pay $350 after rebate and for 2 years contract. So good hunting and get some.