Nokia releases Lumia 1020 camera SDK to developers

Big names such as CNN, Foursquare, Hipstamatic and Yelp are using the Nokia Imaging Software Development Kit

Nokia has released the software development kit (SDK) used in its Lumia 1020 camera phone to app developers, confirming big names like CNN, Foursquare and Yelp are already using the tech to power projects.

Nokia chief executive Stephen Elop announced that the company has opened the SDK, promising it will help app makers unlock Windows Phone 8's imaging potential.

"We're inviting developers to create unique and engaging applications that push the boundaries of mobile imaging so people can share and tell more stories with the Lumia 1020. Powered by Windows Phone 8 the imaging APIs in the platform already let developers create high quality images. To complement these APIs I'm pleased to announce the new Nokia Imaging Software Development Kit (SDK)," he said.

"This is developed by our own imaging experts and the SDK is designed to do a lot of heavy lifting for them. Using this developers can manipulate pictures, including filtering, resizing, cropping and rotation."

Elop said numerous business have already begun mounting development projects to help improve or create new Lumia-focused productivity services. "We have some examples of developers who have used and worked with this technology over the last couple of months and are already building new applications for the Lumia 1020," he said.

"This includes CNN; they're bringing high resolution zoom to their iReport app. Vyclone has also come on board for its sharing platform. We will see new imaging innovation coming from Yelp and Foursquare."

The Nokia chief said the SDK has also garnered interest within the consumer space, with developers using it to add missing services, like Instagram sharing to Lumia phones. "In addition to these great partners I'm excited to announce a new application from Path. Path is a popular private messaging and photo sharing app that's going to get new features, including filters and high resolution photo sharing. Flipboard is building beautifully designed experiences designed with rich imagery, that will look great on the Lumia 1020," he said.

Geoff Blaber, director of Devices and Software Platforms at analyst firm CCS Insight, said the Lumia 1020 and its high-end camera tech could help boost the platform by driving further interest in Nokia's devices and the faltering Windows Phone platform.

"Nokia is positioning the Lumia 1020 as a flagship product for its next generation of smartphones," he said.

"Alone, it will not transform Nokia's fortunes but the publicity generated around the innovative camera technology will be a major boost, not only to the Lumia brand but also the Windows Phone platform."

The Nokia Lumia 1020 was unveiled in New York and is the second phone to feature a 41MP rear camera sensor. For a look at the Nokia Lumia 1020, check out V3's hands-on review.