Nokia unveils Lumia 1020 with 41MP next-generation PureView technology

Finnish firm hopes to revive fortunes with top-end camera technology in latest device

Nokia has unveiled its latest Lumia 1020 Windows Phone 8 smartphone, claiming its camera is the most powerful ever seen on a mobile device, featuring custom-built, next-generation PureView technology.

Nokia chief executive Stephen Elop unveiled the 1020 in New York at an event attended by V3, claiming it is the next evolution of the camera technology originally seen on its 808 PureView Symbian phone.

"Last year the Nokia 808 put a 41MP sensor in people's hands, this year the 920 the 925 and 928 solved the biggest camera complaint, with the ability to take images in low light. But we are not done, not by a long shot. We've only just begun - today I'd like to introduce the next chapter in smartphone photography," he said.

"With the Lumia 1020, you'll see things you've never seen before, you'll get closer. The 1020 will change how you shoot, how you create and how you share pictures forever."

Despite boasting the same 41MP as the 808, Nokia claims the 1020's camera is significantly more advanced, featuring new oversampling and generation-two image-stabilisation technology designed to radically improve video and photo detail. Elop said the technology will allow the 1020 to outperform competing smartphones like the iPhone 5 and Galaxy S4 in all shooting environments.

The 1020's camera will also boast a 1/1.5" back-illuminated (BSI) sensor, 6-lens Zeiss wide-angle optics, optical image stabilisation and Xenon flash. Nokia has also confirmed the camera will be able to record in 1080p at 30fps and will boast new Nokia Pro Camera shooting modes.

Elop said the shot options are designed to give users the ability to adjust the camera settings using a full manual mode. "This camera application offers easy access to change the camera setting, things like ISO and exposure values. Playing with the exposure settings lets you do some really cool things with shots."

As well as its camera, the 1020 will feature a 4.5in Amoled HD+, 1280x768, 720p Gorilla Glass 3 coated display. While fans will be upset that the 1020's display is not 1080p, it will come with the same high-brightness, Sunlight readability and super-sensitive touch and ClearBlack technologies as the Lumia 925. The tech serves to improve the displays performance outside and let users interact with the phone while wearing gloves.

The 1020 will be powered by a 1.5GHz dual-core Qualcomm Snapdragon processor and boast 2GB of RAM and 32GB of internal storage space. The device is also set to feature a 2,000mAh battery. Sadly the 1020 will require a snap-on shell for wireless charging.

The 1020 is similar in size to the 920, measuring in at 130x71x10.4mm and weighing 158g, though there is a significant bump in its back where the camera tech is housed. The 1020 is set for release this quarter, but there is currently no word on price. Check back with V3 later for a full hands-on review with the Nokia Lumia 1020.