Meet the Memoir, a new 8-megapixel monster camera phone from Samsung. Not only does the Memoir have a killer camera, it boasts a full touch screen user interface, and 3G.There are a few camera phones available through official network operator channels that have 5 megapixels. The Memoir is the first to reach the United States with a whopping 8 megapixels on board. It also carries a Xenon flash, 16x digital zoom, and CMOS autofocus. Samsung also has created a new widget specifically for the Memoir that allows users to send images to online photo-sharing services easier.

The Memoir has a large touch display and runs Samsung's TouchWiz user interface. It includes a virtual QWERTY keypad and multiple messaging capabilities, including text, multimedia messaging, instant messaging, and e-mail. It also has a full range of media playback capabilities, including music and video, as well as aGPS (assisted GPS) to power navigation and location-based services.

In a prepared statement, Bill Ogle, chief marketing officer for Samsung Mobile, said, "This is the camera phone that will make people want to leave their digital camera at home. When you combine the Memoir's imaging capabilities, customizable menus, and music player, not only is it a great phone, but the entertainment possibilities are unlimited."

Megapixels alone do not necessarily a good camera make, but it lays the foundation for powerful imaging possibilities. With that many megapixels in your pocket, I agree with Mr. Ogle that it will prompt many to leave their standalone cameras behind.

The Memoir will work on T-Mobile's 3G network, but remember that T-Mobile's 3G coverage doesn't match that of AT&T, Sprint, or Verizon. I haven't been able to find a full spec sheet on the Memoir to determine if it has Wi-Fi or not.

For now, the Memoir will hold the megapixel mantle. Will another cell phone manufacturer top it anytime soon?