Samsung TL9 camera/media player concept announced

The Samsung TL9 is a multifunction camera/media player providing still image and video capture capabilities.

Similar in concept to Samsung's i8, the restyled TL9 is a camera above all else, providing a well-rounded list of features that includes a 5x internally contained zoom lens, a 10.0 megapixel sensor, and 2.7-inch LCD.

Dual Image Stabilization in the TL9 combines a lens-shifting optical image stabilization mechanism with high-ISO shooting up to ISO 1600 for clear shots regardless of lighting conditions. Thirteen scene presets as well as Smile Shot, Face Detection, and Blink Detection provide the typical novice-friendly features common to style-focused ultracompact cameras.

But the TL9 is more than just a camera: its unique range of functions equip the device to serve as an MP3 and movie player, handheld video editor, and voice recorder. Users can listen to music loaded to the TL9 through its built-in headphone jack or its on-board speaker, and can watch movies and video clips on the device's 2.7-inch LCD. Advanced video shooting modes combine with playback options to make the TL9 a portable video clip editor as well.

As a PMP, the TL9 appears to be capable and well thought out. As with previous Samsung media player/camera concepts, however, files for portable playback must be loaded onto the TL9 through Samsung's Digimax Converter software. If the conversion requirement seems a bit clunky, this feeling is at least partially offset by the fact that the TL9's converter can handle all of the common media formats, including MPEG, MOV, AVI, and WMV.

The TL9 avoids the iPod-mimicking look of its i8 predecessor in favor of an appearance more closely connected to Samsung's recent digicam offerings. In an interesting design touch, a pair of small analog gauges atop the device read out the TL9's remaining battery life and free space on its SD/SDHC memory.

The TL9 is scheduled for retail delivery in September, with a suggested price of $279.95.