San Diego, CA—Sony Electronics unveiled the Sony DSC-HX99 RNV retinal projection camera kit. The kit features technology to help people with visual impairments photograph the world around them.
The RNV kit consists of Sony’s DSC-HX99 compact camera and QD Laser’s RETISSA NEOVIEWER. The viewfinder uses laser retinal projection technology.
Together, Sony and QD Laser are offering a new experience with focus-free retinal projection. Consequently, the RNV kit will give people with low vision a new way to view and photograph the world.
“We continue to leverage creativity and technology to enhance the accessibility of our products, services and experiences. The retina projection camera kit is a step in our commitment to a future that empowers all types of creators,” said Yang Cheng, vice president, Imaging Solutions, Sony Electronics Inc.
“Sony welcomes the opportunity to use our digital imaging technology in this new and innovative way.”
Details on Sony DSC-HX99 RNV Kit
The Cyber-shot DSC-HX99 is a point-and-shoot, travel zoom camera that covers everything from wide-angle to super-telephoto in a compact body. The camera integrates a 24–720mm, 30x optical zoom lens.
In addition, QD Laser’s RETISSA NEOVIEWER is an accessory viewfinder for the camera. A digital image from the camera is directly projected to the retina through the viewfinder to see the surroundings, allowing users to take a photo or record a video.
The combined technology offers a new way to view landscapes as well as people’s faces. It also enables users to read signs and capture images through retinal projection. Moreover, the kit provides functions that allow users to enjoy full-fledged shooting, such as high-speed, high-precision AF performance and support for recording in the RAW format.
“The laser retinal projection of RETISSA NEOVIEWER is a completely new technology that was put to practical use for the first time in the world,” said Dr. Mitsuru Sugawara, president and CEO of QD Laser, Inc.
“With the DSC-HX99 RNV kit that includes Sony’s digital still camera, we hope people who may have found traditional viewfinders difficult to use will now enjoy taking photos, expanding their range of activities and discovering new worlds.”
What’s more, to encourage people to use the camera kit, Sony is offering it at a suggested retail price of $599.99, bearing a portion of the costs itself. Sony also plans a collaboration with Japanese and American schools for the blind that assist people with low vision. 
Furthermore, Sony is looking to collaborate with other partners to host a touch-and-try event for potential users to have a hands-on experience with the kit before purchasing.
Sony will make the kit available for purchase in the U.S. in limited quantities through its website starting early summer 2023. SRP: $599.99.
