Sony has announced new high-speed memory cards for upcoming digital SLR cameras, based on the XQD memory card format and capable of reading and writing data at a blazing 125MB/s. Designed for high-end cameras, Sony's new XQD cards are based on the latest standard to come from the CompactFlash Association and are designed to be paired with the next-generation of high-resolution high-speed DSLR cameras from the likes of Nikon. Using Nikon's latest D4 full-frame 16.2-megapixel DSLR, one of the first to support the XQD memory card format, Sony claims photographers will be able to capture around 100 frames in continuous shooting mode - even in RAW format. "Advanced shooters want to capture the moment in the highest quality possible, and that often means dealing with massive files like RAW images", explained Viviano Cantu, director of consumer media for Sony Electronics, during the announcement. "Memory card technology has done a great job of keeping pace, but these new cards give an entirely new meaning to speed and performance." By contrast to Sony's 125MB/s speed claims for the XQD cards, the fastest CompactFlash cards - based on the UDMA7 standard - offer around 100MB/s, albeit at more impressive capacities. Sony has confirmed that the new cards will be available from February in 16GB and 32GB capacities, with US retail pricing currently estimated at $129.99 and $229.99 (around £84 and £148) respectively. The company has also indicated that it is planning to expand the range to higher capacities in the future. "As users' needs continue to evolve", Cantu added, "Sony will also continue to enhance the XQD memory card line-up to meet the future requirements of the high-end digital imaging market." - See more at: http://www.expertreviews.co.uk/memory-cards/1289338/sony-shows-off-high-speed-xqd-memory-cards#sthash.LgVoGUPE.dpuf