Due to hit UK retailers in mid-March, the NEX-3N boasts a 16.1-million-pixel APS HD CMOS imaging sensor, a tiltable LCD screen and a pop-up flash.

The NEX-3N replaces the NEX-F3 which was unveiled in May 2012.

In an interview with Amateur Photographer (AP) Sony UK product manager for SLT and NEX, Joe Asai, explained that the sensor is the same as that featured in the NEX-5R, but includes a new algorithm to ‘enable better image quality in low light’.

The 269g camera also features Auto Object Framing as featured on the SLT-A58, which was also announced today, and Area Specific Noise Reduction, as featured on the SLT-A99, a full-frame camera announced last year.

Claimed improvements also include a redesigned grip to help prevent slipping.

Asai said Sony is aiming the NEX-3N at compact camera users who want to ‘step-up’ and, to this end, has installed a zoom lever next to the on/off button, as featured on compact models.

Sony’s target market also includes entry-level DSLR users seeking to replace their existing camera.

The NEX-3N will come in a kit with an 16-50mm lens, priced around £400; and with 16-50mm and 55-210mm lenses in an outfit costing around £600.

Sony claims that the NEX-3N is the world’s smallest, lightest, interchangeable-lens camera with an APS-C size sensor and a pop-up flash.

The camera measures 109.9x62x34.6mm.

Features include a 3in, 460,000-dot resolution screen and a top burst rate of around four frames per second.