Kodak Press Release

Kodak Ranked Highest in Two Segments of J.D. Power and Associates 2005 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study SM For Second Year In A Row

KODAK EASYSHARE Cameras Highest Ranked Brand in the $200-399 and $199 or Less Price Segments; Representing More Than 85 Percent of the U.S. Digital Camera Market

August 17 2005 — Solidifying its reputation for quality and ease of use among consumers, Eastman Kodak Company today again captured the highest rankings in two of the four segments in the J.D. Power and Associates 2005 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study SM. 

In the second annual consumer study evaluating digital camera performance, connectivity, cost and appearance, KODAK EASYSHARE digital still cameras ranked highest in customer satisfaction in two price categories:  $200-399 and $199 or less.  This is the second year in a row that Kodak has captured the coveted $200-399 price segment.  Digital cameras in these two segments comprise more than 85 percent of the U.S. market, according to NPD Techworld.

J.D. Power and Associates, a global marketing information firm that represents the voice of the customer, has become a trusted source on consumer products, based on its annual consumer surveys on automobiles.  With digital cameras now in at least 40 percent of American households, according to the Photo Marketing Association (PMA), the company’s rankings intend to help consumers make better purchasing decisions with its consumer-driven research. 

“Whether for an enthusiast or someone just starting out, Kodak’s EASYSHARE portfolio offers a full-range of digital still cameras ideal for every type of photographer,” said Mary Hadley, general manager, Digital Cameras, Digital & Film Imaging Systems, Eastman Kodak Company.  “Capturing the highest customer satisfaction ranking in two segments, and in the core $200-$399 category for a second year in a row, reinforces consumers’ trust in Kodak’s quality, easy-to-use digital system.” 

Within the $200-399 price range, thirteen EASYSHARE digital cameras were represented, including the high-zoom Z-series.  All models, including the Z700, Z730 and Z740 combine outstanding performance and ease of use, while bringing extended zoom benefits to everyday picture takers. 
Twelve EASYSHARE digital cameras were evaluated as part of the $199 or less category, including the EASYSHARE C and CX product portfolios.  KODAK EASYSHARE digital cameras outperformed the competition in ease of use across the board, including the compact C300. 

To further enhance the “ease-of-use” experience, Kodak this year has combined a selection of C-Series and Z-Series digital cameras with the best-selling KODAK EASYSHARE Printer Dock Series 3, giving consumers everything they need to take, print and share real KODAK pictures in just seconds at the touch of a button.           

This J.D. Power and Associates 2005 Digital Camera Satisfaction Study SM award is the latest in a series of awards for the innovative KODAK EASYSHARE digital photography system, including:

- “Next Big Thing,” CNET
- “Best of CES,” G4TechTV
- “Best Mobile Buys Award,” Laptop
- “American Photo Editor’s Choice Award, Digital Point and Shoots Series”
- “DIMA Innovative Digital Product Award”

The award-winning KODAK EASYSHARE digital photography system — consisting of cameras, printer docks and camera docks, services, software, inkjet and thermal photo papers, and accessories — makes taking, organising, sharing, and printing high quality digital pictures effortless.  Further information on KODAK EASYSHARE products is available at www.kodak.com/go/EasyShare. To learn more about the J.D. Power and Associates award information, log onto www.jdpower.com.