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Sony Party-shot IPT-DS1 'Auto Photographer'

Sony has introduced a digital camera accessory that can follow people in a room and by using facial detection technology, snap photos autonomously.

The cone-shaped camera dock can pan 360 degrees and tilt a camera up to 24 degrees in following people within a room. Using face and smile detection technology embedded in Sony digital cameras, the device takes pictures when it determines the time is right.

Sony is marketing the Party-shot as an "automatic photographer" that would be useful during gatherings of family and friends. "With the Party-shot personal photographer, you no longer have to worry about taking pictures," Shigehiko Nakayama, digital imaging accessories product manager at Sony Electronics, said in a statement.

The Party-shot is powered by two AA batteries, which last up to 11 hours, according to Sony. An AC adaptor is sold separately.

The device will work with Sony's DSC-WX1 and DSC-TX1 Cyber-shot cameras, which are scheduled to be released about the same time as the Party-shot. Both cameras have 10.2-megapixel sensors and three-inch LCD screens.

Sony started taking orders for the Party-shot on Thursday. The devices is scheduled to be released in September and will sell for $150. Sony is also taking orders for the cameras. The DSC-WX1 sells for $350 and the DSC-TX1 for $380.

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