Nikon adds to Wi-Fi enabled offerings with Coolpix S610c

A new Wi-Fi enabled ultracompact is slated to join Nikon's Coolpix S series: the Nikon Coolpix S610c.

Launched in tandem with a photographically similar version without the Wi-Fi (the S610), the internet-ready S610c represents the second wireless-enabled camera in Nikon's current lineup and the sixth generation of the manufacturer's in-camera wireless image transfer technology.

In terms of hard tech, the S610 and S610c feature 10 megapixel sensors, similar wide-angle lens – a 4x version on the S610, and a 3.6x variant on the S610c – and 3.0-inch wide-view LCDs. Optical Vibration Reduction image stabilization is also available on both models. Additionally, Nikon claims that the S610/S610c offer some of the fastest startup times among current point-and-shoot cameras: "a mere 0.7 seconds."

EXPEED processing graces both cameras, and both benefit from the inclusion of Nikon's new Scene Auto Selector – which chooses the most appropriate scene preset for a given shooting situation automatically. Nikon's Active Child Mode, "which automatically tracks the movement of subjects, such as children and pets, to ensure that they are in crisp, clear focus," makes shooting subjects in motion easier than ever with the latest Coolpix S cameras as well. Speaking of motion, Nikon's Motion Detection system is able to automatically detect subject motion and boost sensitivity and shutter speeds accordingly for sharp, freeze-frame captures.

Built-in Wi-Fi in the Coolpix S610c can wirelessly connect to home or hotspot internet accesse and upload or email images directly from the camera. As in previous-generation Nikon Wi-Fi cams, the company's my Picturetown photo storage and sharing site serves as the primary initial destination for photos transferred from the S610c to the web, "but images can also be sent to the photo community sharing website Flickr, blogs and social networking sites." The ability to upload photos just about anywhere there's open internet access should make the S610c appealing to travelers and others looking for simple, camera-based wireless image transfer.

In addition to my Picturetown access, Nikon is also providing more connectivity options for the S610c: the latest Coolpix comes standard with free access to Wayport's network of 10,000 wireless hotspots nationwide (with locations including McDonald's restaurants and several major hotel chains) through August 31, 2011.

Both the S610 and the S610c are scheduled to ship in September, with suggested prices of $279.95 for the S610, or $329.95 for the Wi-Fi enabled version.

Detailed specifications for the latest Nikon cameras have not been provided yet. We'll update this story as information is made available to us.