The Hungarian website Index Digicam have reviewed the brand new Sony DSC-P93, a 5-megapixel digital camera with a 3x optical zoom.

Website: Index Digicam - Sony DSC-P93 Review

They were only announced 2 days ago, but DPReview already have previews of 4 of the new Panasonic digital cameras, including the DMC-FZ20 (pictured).

Website: DPReview - DMC-FZ20 Preview

Website: DPReview - DMC-FZ3 Preview

Website: DPReview - DMC-FX2/FX7 Preview

Dp-Now have published their First Look at the 5 megapixel Ricoh Caplio GX digital camera.

“Alas, the Caplio GX is a frustrating disappointment. The camera is nice to use and to hold. OK, there are some irritations, like the flash system charging lock-out and the occasional reticence to shoot when ordered, but overall - the Caplio GX is a camera that looks and feels like it should take great pictures, but it doesn’t.

We always print test shots because examination on the screen can be misleading. But if anything the printed results made things even worse for the GX, showing up noise issues in an even harder light.”

Website: DP-Now - Ricoh Caplio GX First Look

Website: Read my Review of the Ricoh Caplio GX

Now I really have seen everything! Kyocera are trying to cash in on the iPod craze by launching 5 new variations of their 4 megapixel Finecam SL400R digital camera, which match the 5 different iPod Mini pastel colours. The “new” digicams will only be available in Apple’s Ginza store and Apple’s online shop, costing ?44,000 ($401, £218). Are they the epitome of cool? Or a desparate attempt to shift a 6-month old digital camera? Only you can decide…

Website: The Register - Kyocera offers iPod Mini-matching digicams

Website: Original Kyocera Finecam SL400R Announcement

The new website NEAsia have reported that Matsushita, which markets Panasonic products, is set to boost its digital camera production capacity by 75% a month to 350,000 units in August. No surprise really after yesterday’s lauch of 5 new Panasonic digital cameras. Interestingly is aiming to sell 8 million units in 2006, 8x more than the number that they achieved in 2003. Quite an agressive plan considering the competition!

Website: NeAsia - Matsushita to Lift Digital Camera Output Capacity by 75%

The Danish website Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 have today reviewed the 8-megapixel Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 digital camera.

Website: Akamera.dk - Konica Minolta DiMAGE A2 Review

There was some confusion yesterday about the Panasonic digital camera launch, as it turns out that they are releasing different models in different regions of the world. Well, I was confused anyway :-)

So just to clarify things, here are the models that Panasonic are releasing in the USA:

- DMC-FZ3 - 3-Megapixel - Late summer 2004 - $399.95
- DMC-FZ15 - 4-Megapixel - Late summer 2004 - $499.95 (this is the USA-only model)
- DMC-FZ20 - 5-Megapixel - Late summer 2004 - $599.95
- DMC-FX7 - 5-Megapixel - August - $499.95
- DMC-LC80 - 5-Megapixel - August - $349.95

and here are the models that are being released in Europe:

- DMC-FZ3 - 3-Megapixel
- DMC-FZ20 - 5-Megapixel
- DMC-FX7 - 5-Megapixel
- DMC-FX2 - 4-Megapixel (this is the Europe-only model)
- DMC-LC80 - 5-Megapixel

And finally, here’s the press release for the camera that I missed out yesterday, the DMC-FX2.

Panasonic Press Release 21/07/04

Super Slim Compact Digital Camera DMC-FX7/FX2

Incorporate Advanced MEGA O.I.S. with Large LCD Monitor

Panasonic is introducing the incoming LUMIX models 5.0-megapixel DMC-FX7 and 4.0-megapixel DMC-FX2, incorporating 3x optical zoom (equivalent to 35mm to 105mm on a 35mm film camera) and MEGA O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer). The DMC-FX5/FX1, the world’s first compact camera with MEGA O.I.S., have been developed thoroughly into the DMC-FX7/FX2. DMC-FX7 has achieved the conspicuous downsizing by approx. 33% ( 94.1 x 50.0 x 24.2 mm ) compared to FX5/FX1, while adopting the 2.5” large LCD monitor. DMC-FX2 is the same in size with 2.0? LCD monitor. Both models have enhanced their excellence not only with the compactness and total number of pixels, but also with a long list of technical improvements as in the image processing LSI and in the accuracy of O.I.S.

Sony Press Release 20/07/04

SONY’S NEW CYBER-SHOT DSC-P150: WORLD’S SMALLEST 7.2 MEGAPIXEL CAMERA

SAN DIEGO, July 20, 2004 - Sony’s new Cyber-shot DSC-P150 is the world’s first compact point-and-shoot digital camera in the marketplace loaded with 7.2 megapixels, putting breathtaking, near-professional-quality photos in your shirt pocket or handbag. It will be available in September for less than $500.

The P150 camera yields an image size of 3072 x 2304 - making it the first pocketable camera capable of capturing enough pixels to make 300-dpi 8” x 10” enlargements.

The P150 has also been empowered with Sony’s own recently introduced Real Imaging Processor? circuitry that ensures fast start-up and shot-to-shot times, and puts extra speed and performance behind automatic features such as auto focus and auto exposure. That means you’ll never miss that one-in-a-million shot because the camera is always ready to take great pictures.

“Not only does the Cyber-shot P150 camera offer tremendous value, it takes incredibly vivid and lifelike digital photos, capturing color and detail previously unavailable in such a compact camera,” said Greg Young, general manager for Sony Electronics Digital Still Camera marketing.

Panasonic USA Press Release 21/07/04

THREE NEW 12X ZOOM MODELS WITH OPTICAL IMAGE STABILIZER LEAD OFF PANASONIC’S LUMIX DIGITAL CAMERA LINE

First Company to Utilize Leica Lenses in Digital Still Cameras Is Also First To Combine 12x Zoom with an Optical Image Stabilizer

Secaucus, NJ (July 21, 2004) - Panasonic introduces the first digital cameras to combine 12x optical zoom with an optical image stabilizer.  Integrating unrivalled optical and digital technologies with ergonomic design, Panasonic’s three new 12x zoom Lumix models achieve a level of performance never before seen in digital cameras.  New models DMC-FZ3 (3-Megapixel), DMC-FZ15 (4-Megapixel) and DMC-FZ20 (5-Megapixel) feature a versatile, high-performance Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens with powerful 12x zoom (equivalent to a 35 ? 420mm zoom lens on a conventional 35mm film camera) and F2.8 brightness throughout the entire zoom range.  With their extraordinary telephoto features and precision image stabilizers, these cameras are engineered to capture every detail of distant or quick-moving subjects with superb brightness and clarity.

Panasonic’s MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer automatically detects and optically compensates for hand movement by shifting internal lens elements, enabling the user to capture crisp, clear, distortion-free ultra-telephoto or macro shots of distant or moving subjects, even in low lighting conditions.

“Photographers, especially those who shoot sports, wildlife or live performances, know that it’s difficult to get sharp images if they are using a long lens on a handheld camera. The zoom accentuates every little movement of the hand,” commented Monica Helmer, Marketing Manager for Panasonic.  “We?ve incorporated the technology we developed for our camcorders to create Panasonic?s MEGA Optical Image Stabilizer, a true optical image stabilizer that uses the full capacity of the camera?s CCD to compensate for hand jitter.” 

Panasonic USA Press Release 21/07/04

PANASONIC INTRODUCES NEW LUMIX 5 MEGAPIXEL, ULTRA COMPACT CAMERA WITH OPTICAL IMAGE STABILIZER

Secaucus, NJ (July 21, 2004) - Panasonic’s new model DMC-FX7 5-megapixel Lumix digital camera packs a wealth of advanced technology and easy-to-use features in a sleek, compact package.  It’s the first compact digital camera to feature both an Optical Image Stabilizer, and 2.5” LCD.  Incorporating a high-performance Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens,  the DMC-FX7 combines the ease and convenience of digital utility with the expressiveness of film photography.

Scheduled to begin shipping to retailers in August, the DMC-FX7 will be available in black or silver.  The unit will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $499.95.

“Everything about the DMC-FX7 is designed to allow anyone to get high-quality results, whether composing a scene or catching the action on the fly,” said Monica Helmer, Marketing Manager for Panasonic?s Optical Group.  “Consumers who use a camera this small and lightweight are particularly troubled by image quality problems due to inevitable hand movement.  With the DMC-FX7, Panasonic has corrected this problem by including an optical image stabilizer.  It intuitively compensates for any hand movement, so that every shot is beautifully crisp and clear.”

Panasonic USA Press Release 21/07/04

PANASONICS NEW 5-MEGAPIXEL POINT-AND-SHOOT LUMIX CAMERA COMBINES SOPHISTICATED FEATURES WITH SIMPLE OPERATION

SECAUCUS, NJ (July 21, 2004) - Joining Panasonic’s celebrated Lumix camera line is the new DMC-LC80.  Compact and lightweight, this 5-megapixel model packs some of today’s most advanced digital camera technology into a fun, easy-to-use camera that anyone can enjoy.

“Sophisticated features coupled with simple operation make this camera perfect for first-time digital camera users as well as experienced photographers,” said Monica Helmer, Marketing Manager for Panasonic?s Optical Group.

The DMC-LC80 Lumix camera will be available beginning this August and will have a manufacturer’s suggested retail price of $349.95.

The Hungarian website Index Digicam have posted their review of the new 8 megapixel professional DSLR from Canon, the EOS 1D Mark II.

Website: Index Digicam - Canon EOS 1D Mark II Review

Canon UK Press Release 20/07/04

Canon announces special edition Digital IXUS i with Furla designer camera case

Canon, leader in photographic and imaging technology, is pleased to announce two special editions of its Digital IXUS i. In a special promotion celebrating the fashionable nature and chic design of Canon’s digital cameras, the limited edition packages include a Digital IXUS i with an exclusively designed Furla camera case, available from Harrods and Photo Optix.

The ultimate accessory
Italian fashion house, Furla, is famous worldwide for its luxury leather goods and the Furla brand is synonymous with quality and elegance. Furla has designed the sophisticated black leather camera case especially for the Digital IXUS i. The stylish, high quality case will protect the camera, while also complementing its design.

Canon’s Digital IXUS cameras are already recognized as design icons of the early 21st century ? especially the small, sleek Digital IXUS i, which is available in four fashion colours:  Platinum Silver, Piano Black, Classic Bronze and Pearl White.

The Digital IXUS i with Furla case package is available in the following combinations:
? Platinum Silver Digital IXUS i with Furla case - £279 RRP inc VAT.
? Piano Black Digital IXUS i with Furla case - £279 RRP inc VAT.
(Digital IXUS i camera only - £249 RRP inc VAT)

Editorial Comment: I don’t usually comment too much on official press releases, but this one from BenQ made me chuckle. Their new E40 digital camera is aimed at “fun, fearless females”, surely something of a niche market - I’m not sure if you’re entitled to buy the camera if you don’t fall into that category. A little more seriously (but not much), BenQ have allegedly made their new digicam more female-friendly by adding the ability to “scrawl on photos” (their words, not mine), add built-in photo frames to your images, and ermmm, that’s it, apart from the stylish red case. Now far be it for me to give BenQ advice on marketing, but surely what a female digital photographer wants is exactly the same as any photographer, regardless of their sex - a 20 megapixel compact digital with image quality that matches DSLRs? :-)

BenQ Press Release 19/07/04

Sweet ‘n Stylish - BenQ’s E40 Digital Camera with a female touch

Europe, 19th of July, 2004 - BenQ announces the release of the BenQ DC E40 digital camera. Targeted at females, the E40 features an intuitive touch screen with photo framing and “scrawling” options and equipped with a 4 mega-pixel high sensitivity image sensor.

The E40 features BenQ’s first and innovative touch screen design that allows photo personalization. Offering users more than just photo playback, the E40’s touch screen allows users to choose from various built-in photo frames (also available to download at BenQ.com, E40 specifications link). Furthermore, you can also make creative “scrawling” directly on photos.

HP has launched its first ever digital camera in China, choosing the top-of-the-range 5 megapixel PhotoSmart R707 as the inaugural product. According to the brief report on Forbes.com, this is only the beginning for HP, who are aiming to “drive a digital revolution into the home’ in China”.

Website: Forbes.com - HP launches first digital camera in China

DP-Now have posted a First Look at the Samsung Digimax U-CA 3, a 3 megapixel digital camera aimed at the young photographer or the budding photo enthusiast.

“Although the Samsung U-CA 3 is a plastic-bodied camera, the mouldings are of a very high quality and appear to be more resistant to wear and tear than many other cameras in this class. Complementing its cool and trendy ambience, the body is finished in a sparkling metallic paint job. A really cool pouch case is supplied to protect your U-CA 3 anyway.”

Website: DP-Now - Samsung Digimax U-CA 3 First Look

Josh Waller has just reviewed the 3.2 megapixel Pentax Optio 30, which is a simple digital camera aimed at photography beginners.

“Great image quality, thanks to the excellent Pentax lens - the camera produces good colours both inside and outside. Good sharpness, saturation, and low noise as well! The camera has an EXCELLENT macro mode - which I wasn’t expecting, as it doesn’t seem to be especially marketed by Pentax.”

Website: Josh Waller - Pentax Optio 30 Review

Concord Camera Corp. Press Release 19/07/04

CONCORD CAMERA CORP. WINS COMPUTER TIMES “EDITOR’S CHOICE” AWARD

Concord Eye-Q 4060AF is first Digital Camera to Win Computer Times Award since August 2002

Hollywood, FL, July 19, 2004 - Concord Camera Corp. (“Concord”) (Nasdaq:LENS), a global leader in high-quality, popular-priced digital cameras, today announced that it won the Computer Times “Editor?s Choice” Award for the Concord Eye-Q 4060AF (see full article at http://computertimes.com/jun04edchoiceConcordEyeQ4060AF.htm).

The Concord Eye-Q 4060AF digital camera is the first digital camera to win the coveted Computer Times Editor’s Choice award since August 2002.  According to Computer Times, the Concord Eye-Q 4060AF not only impressed their toughest reviewing editor, but it also “includes an impressive list of high-end features for a very affordable price - a key feature in winning this award. Our hats off to everyone involved in its design and marketing. A job well done,” said Angie Kibiloski, Computer Times.

Kibiloski continues, “This camera has been a treat to use, and I would absolutely recommend it. I have tried many other digital cameras in the past, and have not been terribly impressed. Actually, I quickly become very frustrated with their limitations.  However, the Concord Eye Q 4060AF has met all of my expectations, and exceeded a few as well. Way to go Concord!”

The Concord Eye-Q 4060AF is a 4 megapixel digital camera that fits everyone’s budget with a retail price of only $179.99.  It features a high-resolution 4 megapixel sensor, easy-to-use controls, a 6x digital zoom, preset and automatic settings, a 1.5-inch TFT color LCD screen, auto focus for easy shooting at any range, 16MB of internal memory, AVI video clips, and a macro mode for close up photography.  The camera uses SD/MMC cards, one of the most popular and easy to find storage cards in the market. 
 

The business website Boston.com have published a review of the new 8-megapixel Nikon Coolpix 8700 digital camera.

“Unfortunately, as cameras move up the ladder in sophistication, the dials, knobs, and appurtenances proliferate. If you’re afflicted with button phobia, you may want to avoid the 8700. On top of the unit are the shutter, mode, voice recording, function, and LCD illumination buttons, as well as power and command dials and a small monochrome LCD, or control panel.”

Thanks to Sanj for the link.

Website: Boston.com - Nikon Coolpix 8700 Review

Photo.net have reviewed the new HP Photosmart R707, a stylish 5 megapixel digital camera.

“Overall the camera performed well. There were a couple of things I didn’t like. One I mentioned above was that the viewfinder seemed to be set with a virtual focus distance which was shorter than normal, so I needed reading glasses for a sharp image - something I don’t need with a typical SLR. Not a big deal, and after a while you don’t really notice it. From my observations, most users of this type of camera don’t use the optical viewfinder anyway, they hold the camera at arm’s length and use the LCD screen!”

Website: Photo.net - HP Photosmart R707 Review