No one was sure whether the Samsung Galaxy Camera, first shown at the end of August, would be coming to the U.S., since the phone-camera hybrid is unlike anything that's been offered before. But AT&T is taking the risk and should be offering the device in the next few weeks.
The Galaxy Camera combines a long 21X zoom (and respectable F/2.8 maximum aperture) with what is essentially a Galaxy S III, complete with 4.8-in. touchscreen and 4G data connection. No one has been able to test one yet, but the images should be on par with a high-quality point-and-shoot.
AT&T did not put exact dates or any kind of pricing in the press release, but you can bet it won't be cheap: That big lens married to one of the most powerful smartphones out there will likely run you at least $200 with a two-year contract — if you're lucky. And that's before the monthly fees. The Galaxy Phone should be available later this month.
Devin Coldewey is a contributing writer for NBCNews Digital. His personal website is coldewey.cc.