The Digital IXUS 980 IS and Digital IXUS 870 IS are two new additions to Canon’s style-led IXUS camera range (called the PowerShot SD990 IS and SD880 IS Digital ELPH in the USA). Replacing the Digital IXUS 960 IS and Digital IXUS 860 IS respectively, the new 14.7 megapixel Canon 980 IS and 10 megapixel 870 IS models both use Canon’s new DIGIC 4 processor. The Digital IXUS 980 IS offers manual Mode that allows control of shutter speed and aperture, together with the new QuickShot mode that uses the optical viewfinder for framing and focusing, virtually eliminating shutter lag. The Digital IXUS 870 IS features a wide-angle (28mm) 4x optical zoom lens. The Canon IXUS 980 IS is available from late September priced at £349.99 / €459.99, and the Canon IXUS 870 IS is priced at £269.99 / €349.99.

Update: We now have some exclusive shots of the Canon Digital IXUS 980 IS and 870 IS from the UK press launch

Canon UK Press Release

Exquisite style and intelligent technology: the Digital IXUS 980 IS and Digital IXUS 870 IS

United Kingdom / Republic of Ireland, 17 September 2008: Canon today re-energises its Digital IXUS compact camera range with two new models: the Digital IXUS 980 IS and Digital IXUS 870 IS, which replace the Digital IXUS 960 IS and Digital IXUS 860 IS respectively.

The flagship 14.7 Megapixel Digital IXUS 980 IS brings several exciting ‘firsts’ to the IXUS range – including manual control, and a striking design available in stylish, head-turning black, as well as traditional IXUS silver. The 10 Megapixel Digital IXUS 870 IS features a 4.0x wide-angle (28mm) optical zoom, a high-resolution 3.0” PureColor LCD II, and comes finished in gold or silver. Both cameras use Canon’s new DIGIC 4 processor, for fast performance and richly detailed, clean images in a huge number of shooting situations.

Creative shooting options
For those looking to take their photography to the next level, the Digital IXUS 980 IS offers a first for Digital IXUS: a Manual Mode that allows control of shutter speed and aperture (Choice of aperture settings is limited). This is ideal for unusual lighting situations or expressive, experimental shots. For split-second photo opportunities, a second new mode – QuickShot – uses the optical viewfinder for framing and focusing, virtually eliminating shutter lag.

The Digital IXUS 870 IS features a wide-angle (28mm) 4x optical zoom, ideal for large group shots, atmospheric interiors or architecture. Both cameras feature Canon’s optical Image Stabilizer technology, for blur-free shots throughout the zoom range and in low-light conditions.

DIGIC 4: intelligent processing for better photos
The Digital IXUS 980 IS and Digital IXUS 870 IS both feature Canon’s new DIGIC 4 image processor. As well as ensuring ultra-fast operation and superb, low-noise images, DIGIC 4 drives several intelligent technologies that make great photos easier than ever.

People shots benefit from improved Face Detection Technology, which even detects faces positioned at an angle to the camera, or in profile. Face Select & Track tracks a specific subject even more accurately, while a new FaceSelf-timer function – which automatically triggers the shutter shortly after a new face enters the frame – makes group shots and self-portraits easy.

Canon’s improved Motion Detection Technology delivers fantastic, sharp results by registering camera and subject movement, then automatically adjusting ISO to prevent image blur. Blur is further guarded against by new Servo AF, which continuously adjusts focus on subjects moving towards or away from the camera.

DIGIC 4 also powers Canon’s new i-Contrast feature, which brings out great, natural-looking detail in dark areas of pictures – without blowing out lighter areas.

High-quality movies for longer
Both cameras offer smooth, 30fps VGA video shooting. Superior compression technology allows the Digital IXUS 980 IS and Digital IXUS 870 IS to store up to 40% more footage to memory card than their predecessors – with no reduction in video quality.

“The Digital IXUS 980 IS and Digital IXUS 870 IS offer a perfect blend of technical innovation and classic IXUS design,” commented Mogens Jensen, Head of Canon Consumer Imaging Europe. ”These cameras are equally striking inside and out.”

Pricing & Availability
The IXUS 980 IS is available from late September priced at £349.99 / €459.99 RRP inc VAT
The IXUS 870 IS is available from late September priced at £269.99 / €349.99 RRP inc VAT

Features at a glance
14.7 Megapixels (Digital IXUS 980 IS), 10.0 Megapixels (Digital IXUS 870 IS)
Colour variations
Black or Silver (Digital IXUS 980 IS)
Gold or Silver (Digital IXUS 870 IS)
3.7x optical zoom lens with optical Image Stabilizer (Digital IXUS 980 IS)
4x wide-angle (28mm) optical zoom lens with optical Image Stabilizer
(Digital IXUS 870 IS)
Manual control (Digital IXUS 980 IS only)
DIGIC 4 for outstanding images and fast response times
Great people shots with Face Detection AF/AE/FE/WB, FaceSelf-Timer and Face Select & Track
Targets all the main causes of blur with High ISO Auto, optical Image Stabilizer, Motion Detection Technology and Servo AF
Auto Red-Eye Correction in shooting and playback
i-Contrast boosts brightness and retains detail in dark areas
2.5” PureColor LCD II with wide viewing angle plus optical viewfinder
(Digital IXUS 980 IS)
3.0” PureColor LCD II with wide viewing angle (Digital IXUS 870 IS)
Multi Control Dial and customizable My Menu
Smooth, 30fps VGA movies

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