New entry-level Sony Alpha DSLR camera
The A290 replaces the A230 and revolves around a CCD sensor upgrade, from 10.2 to 14.2 MP. An ergonomic change was also made allowing the A290 to be marketed as easier to handle than its predecessor.
The camera still behaves pretty much like the previous model and still features starter-level operation, which includes a high ISO 3,200 light sensitivity plus only 2.5FPS for continuous shooting. Although Sony is still tweaking the interface of these starter level versions allowing them to have easier handling on-screen sliders putting the aperture and shutter speed controls into easier to grasp terms.
The Sony Alpha 290 hand grip which was often disparaged has been made over.
Although what's really apparent is that this Sony a290 has received quite a resolution bump, up to 14 Megapixels. which amounts to a 40% pixel increase. This is certainly marketing 1a applied , although not that relevant. Viewing the first images that have emerged, it's easy to presume that the camera has received more fine-tuning. Although, the Sony a290 did not get the Live View mode, which was without a doubt a cost-cutting judgment.
Still no Sony Alpha 290 video
It is too bad that the Sony A290 did not get the video recording mode, which is sort of surprising. Especially for a camera maker that specializes in camcorders with video performance, I'd expect video over ahead of the other manufacturers that have been migrating the video function. While a connection is not exactly what I'd expect; Sony should grab bull by the horns and demonstrate a leadership role. Alas as Sony has demonstrated in the past, Sony only incorporate video into a DSLR camera if it matches the quality conditions that Sony is thinking of. As of now this appears, not to be the case.
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Also, I have just a few issues with the A290.
The most barefaced is all that NOISE. It's definitely NO CAMERA FOR POOR-LIGHT
SITUATIONS, because of combined noisy photos, terrible higher ISO quality, plus a flash unit that seams as if it eats 10% of the life of the battery every time it's engaged! If you only mostly do daytime photos, like I do then you'll discover it to be of excellent quality, especially for the price. Otherwise, it might not be too good of an investment and you should look at other cameras. Another really big thing is the way the aperture is changed while in the full-manual mode. it becomes necessary to press on the AV button, that is located in an awkward position, and may cause errors even after having months of practice. The other big deal is the menu itself; while it's very user-friendly, at times it's a bit simple. Not that I expect use it that much, but still.... Also, the A290 doesn't revert back to instantaneous photography after using the timer, making you mildly annoyed. 
Aug 17, 2011
Features
• 14 megapixels image sensor
• APS-C sized sensor
• 9 AF-stops
• ISO settings up to 3200 ISO
• Built-In SteadyShot image stabilizer
• 2.7-inch display, card slot with support for SD/SDHC and Memory Stick Duo/PRO Duo
• HDMI-output and new built-in HELP function
Camera Includes
• Sony Alpha A290 Digital SLR
• NP-FH50 H Series Info-Lithium Battery Pack
• BC-VH1 Battery Charger
• Shoulder Strap
• Body Cap
• USB Cable
• Software CD-ROM
• 1-Year Limited Warranty
