Canon Europe have just announced a new range of “designer” printers, dubbed the PIXMA range. Well, they have announced them according to the latest issue of the UK-based Amateur Photographer magazine (10 July 2004) - I’ve been unable to find any other source for them so far. Even the DPReview forums haven’t mentioned them!

In brief, there are 4 new PIXMA printers. The PIXMA iP4000 and iP3000 both have a resolution of 4800x1200dpi and are designed to print up to A4 borderless. Droplet size is 2 picolitres (pl). Both printers feature FINE print heads and are said to print a 6x4 inch print in just 36 seconds. The PIXMA iP4000 has a 5-tank system that includes a dye-based black ink.

There are also 2 entry-level models. The PIXMA iP2000 and iP1500 both have a resolution of 4800x1200dpi and 2 picolitres (pl) droplet size. Both are PictBridge compatible.

Finally, the PIXMA MP750 and MP780 are new multifunctional printers, which can scan, copy and print. The MP780 can also send faxes.

Price and availability are still to be confirmed.