This device is a 20-megapixel camera with a 29-105mm (film equivalent) image-stabilised, Zeiss-branded lens. Except that it is not exactly a complete camera. It doesn't have any sort of viewfinder. The idea is that you attach it to your smartphone, make a connection with either wi-fi or NFC and use the phone as viewfinder and control panel. Sony provides a free connection and control app for Android and iPhone, but not Windows. Images are stored simultaneously on a Micro SD card or Sony's Memory Stick Micro in the ''camera'' and in the phone's storage in a more compressed form, ready for sharing. The unit clamps on to the phone with spring-loaded arms. It is large - 60x60 millimetres - heavy and conspicuous.

Like

The image quality is very good with good resolution and colour. Auto focus is fast, but there is a small but perceptible shutter lag.

Dislike

It is expensive and a little clumsy in operation.

Verdict

This device is as curious as Sony's digital recording binoculars. Perhaps the designers at Sony have been given freedom to try anything and see how it flies. So right now the company offers the best mirrorless cameras - the a7 twins - and the best compact camera - the RX100II - and the weirdest gadgets that you never knew you needed. We're going to have a bit of a lie down and see if we can think of where the QX100 would be a solution to any imaginable problem. The QX10 is cheaper at about $270, with an 18mp sensor and a lesser Sony-branded lens.