Sony SRG-A12 Launched – A 4K PTZ Camera with Built-In AI Capabilities

Camera News

by Jeff LochApril 6^th, 2023

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Sony recently launched a new 4K PTZ camera with built-in AI algorithms capable of following a subject and framing shots autonomously: the Sony SRG-A12. The camera features a 4K Exmor R image sensor capable of recording footage at up to 4K30p and a 12x optical zoom. So let’s take a closer at this new PTZ camera that can shoot without an operator!

In September 2022, Sony released the FR7 full-frame PTZ camera, which can be viewed as a Sony FX6 on a PTZ remote head. However, a PTZ camera with a full-frame image sensor can be seen as a pros and cons, since the shallow depth of field in conferences, for example, can quickly cause focus issues.

This time, Sony is back with an all-in-one PTZ camera – the FR7 being an interchangeable lens system – with a smaller image sensor and the benefit of AI algorithms that can frame and follow humans in a shot automatically.

Sony SRG-A12 – features

The Sony SRG-A12 is a compact PTZ camera primarily designed for video conferencing, remote education, live streaming, and broadcasting. The camera features a 1/2.5″-Type CMOS image sensor that can capture footage up to UHD 4K at 30 frames per second.

The PTZ camera has a built-in 12x optical zoom (focal length equivalent to a 4.4 to 52.8mm lens) with an F/2-3.7 maximum aperture.

At the back of the SRG-A12, you’ll find:

• One HDMI output and one 3G-SDI output.
• A RJ45 LAN output.
• Two RJ45 control input/output port that supports RS-422 and VISCA control protocols.
• A 3.5mm stereo audio input.
• A 19.5V DC barrel power input.

At the front of the camera, there’s a tally light. Lastly, a 1/4″-20 tripod mount is at the bottom of the SRG-A12.

According to Sony, the powerful motors allow for “speedy, precise pan/tilt operation ensures that the camera can accurately keep track of the presenter’s movements.” You can control the camera’s pan/tilt/zoom using the included IR remote controller, the optional RM-IP500 remote controller, or connect the camera to a Mac/PC/Windows tablet.

As you can tell, the technical spec sheet is not something we ever saw before, but the main selling points of this PTZ camera are on the inside.

Sony SRG-A12 AI-based features

The SRG-A12 features built-in AI algorithms and analytics capable of composing shots without an operator. According to Sony, this PTZ Auto Framing technology can automatically detect and track the position of someone within the camera frame. In addition, the algorithms should be able to lock on a subject even when several people are in the frame.

Then, if the person in the frame moves, the camera will automatically pan/tilt/zoom to keep the subject adequately framed.

The camera has three built-in shooting modes: full body, waist, and close-up. Also, you can store and recall up to 256 preset camera positions, which is handy if you often shoot the same type of content.

Sony SRG-A40 – features

Alongside the SRG-A12, Sony also launched the SRG-A40. The only difference between both models is the optical zoom: 12x optical zoom for the SRG-A12 and 40x for the SRG-A40.

Pricing and availability

The Sony SRG-A12 is available now for $3,049.95/€3,537.58, and the SRG-40 retails for $3,599.95/€4,225.44.

Both models are available in either black or white colorway and come with the AC power adaptor, one IR remote controller, two ceiling brackets, a wire rope, one HDMI cable fixing plate, and all the necessary hardware.

For more information, please visit Sony’s website here.

What do you think about these AI-powered PTZ cameras? Do you think AI will replace camera operators in the future? Don’t hesitate to let us know in the comments down below!