Sharp unveils 12-megapixel compact sensor

For many digital camera users, it’s all about the megapixel. Does more mean better? Sometimes. Perhaps not.

Sharp is pushing the megapixel envelope, announcing a 12-mp image sensor that can achieve 1.88 microns. This would seem to be a step forward in one sense but a drawback in another. The current 10-megapixel models have a 2-micron range, which many discriminating customers find to be less than desirable.

Still, the Sharp model might be worth taking a chance on, given its relatively low price. It will be commonly available in January, for just US$64.