OK, please don't scoff at this as this is not intended to start a war....

Sony have just released the details on two brand new DSLR's, the SLT-A55 and A33. DPReview have already given the A55 a full review, which can be found here:

http://dpreview.com/reviews/sonyslta55/

OK, so why the brash and brazen title. Take a look at the spec list (and the bits that I have put shown as bold):

* 16.2MP (effective) APS HD CMOS sensor
* Fixed, pellicle-type semi-translucent mirror
* Maximum ISO 12,800 (with a quasi-ISO 25,600 'Multi-frame NR' option)
* 15-point phase-detection AF array with 3 cross-type AF points
* Electronic viewfinder with 1.44 million dot resolution (1.15M dots used)
* Built-in GPS
* Electronic level in EVF/LCD with pitch/roll indicator
* Dual-purpose Memory Stick/SD card slot
* 10fps continuous shooting rate
* 1080p AVCHD movie mode with continuous AF
* Articulated 3in 'TruBlack' LCD with 912k dots
* socket for external microphone
* 2x magnification mode in live view
* Face-detection AF (focus via nearest phase-detection AF point)

Sony said that they were not going to do video in a DSLR, until they can do it right. And how have they achieved this? The pellicle semi transparent Mirror AND the electronic view finder..... This means that the camera can use full phase-detection AF (and not contrast detect AF, which apparently is not as reliable) for video modes at all times.

So, is this the beginning of the end of the Optical View finder?

*Note, for me, I personally don't care. For those who know me, I have very firmly gone away from more features in cameras, but I thought that the release of this camera could shape the future and it is definitely news worthy.