PENTAX Optio P80 Released

Next up is the Optio P80 ultra-compact camera. Incorporating most features of the earlier released P70 into a lighter body, the 12MP camera comes with a 4x zoom lens (27.5-110mm equiv.) and 2.7 inch LCD. It offers features such as HD video recording and a new 'Small Face filter', which makes the subject’s face appear smaller in relation to the body. Interesting

PENTAX Optio P80

A stylish, ultra-slim digital compact camera featuring a host of functions for the effortless capture of beautiful portraits

August 5, 2009: HOYA CORPORATION PENTAX Imaging Systems Division is pleased to announce the launch of the PENTAX Optio P80 digital compact camera. Its ultra-slim, lightweight design allows it to be carried along anywhere, anytime — more like an accessory than a camera.

The new Optio P80 is the latest model of the popular Optio digital compact series, and features a compact, lightweight body. It provides a host of advanced features for the capture of brilliant, sharply focused portraits. These include: an upgraded version of the Face Recognition AF & AE function, which lets the photographer capture the subject’s face in optimum focus and exposure, even from diagonal angles and in different poses; a new Small Face filter, which helps produce a more attractive, better-proportioned subject image by making the face appear slightly smaller in relation to the body; and a more responsive version of the Auto-Tracking AF function, which helps keep an active subject in constant focus.

Major Features

Stylish, ultra-slim camera body
The Optio P80 sports a compact, ultra-slim body that makes it ideal for bringing along not only on trips and leisure events, but also on daily outings and business meetings. Combining many design elements — including a high-grade aluminum-alloy housing and delicately-contoured chrome-plated parts that sparkle from every angle — the body has a beautiful elegant finish that is a statement of the quality within.

PENTAX’s innovative Sliding Lens System* and space-efficient high-density mounting technology have significantly contributed to a downsizing and weight reduction of the camera body, making the Optio P80 extremely compact and lightweight — the thinnest part of the body measuring a mere 16.5mm in depth, despite the incorporation of an optical 4X zoom lens and a large 2.7 inch LCD monitor.

Greatly upgraded automatic Face Recognition function
The Optio P80’s Face Recognition AF & AE function has seen a major upgrade over the previous version. In addition to the ability to automatically detect up to 32 faces in a mere 0.03 seconds, the function can now detect a subject facing diagonally to the camera, or one with a tilted head.

It also offers other user-friendly features to help the photographer produce attractive portraits with minimal effort: a new Small Face filter, which makes the subject’s face appear smaller than reality in relation to the body, without compromising the overall balance of a portrait; the Smile Capture mode, which automatically releases the shutter the moment the camera detects the subject’s smile; and the Blink Detection function, which warns the photographer when the subject’s eyes close at the time of shutter release.

High-quality HD-proportioned movie recording
The Optio P80 captures beautiful, flawless movie clips at 16:9 high-definition TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels)** at a frame rate of 30 frames per second.

Triple anti-shake protection to prevent different types of camera shake

Pixel Track SR mode
When recording still images, the Optio P80’s Digital SR (Shake Reduction) mode effectively compensates for camera shake by processing affected images.
High-Sensitivity SR mode***
When it detects low-lighting conditions in still-image shooting, the Optio P80 automatically raises its sensitivity to as high as ISO 6400, making it possible to use a higher shutter speed. This effectively minimizes the adverse effects of camera shake and subject shake under poor lighting conditions.
Movie SR mode****
During movie recording, the Optio P80 prevents blurry images by effectively minimizing annoying camera shake through the use of exclusive software.

Optical 4X zoom lens for excellent zoom coverage from wide angle to telephoto
Despite its compact dimensions, the Optio P80 comes equipped with an optical 4X zoom lens covering focal lengths from 4.9mm to 19.6mm (equivalent in the 35mm format to approximately 27.5mm wide angle to 110mm telephoto). Thanks to this wide zoom range, the Optio P80 can be used for a wide variety of subjects and scenes — from spectacular landscapes and group shots in a confined space to tight snapshots from a distance.

High image quality
Combining approximately 12.1 effective megapixels with the PENTAX-developed imaging engine and high-performance PENTAX zoom lens, the Optio P80 delivers brilliant, high-quality images with well-defined details. Even when images are enlarged to large-size prints, the user is assured of sharp, high-resolution prints with edge-to-edge sharpness.

Other features

• Vertical Snap mode, to capture vertical-position images with the same ease of operation as a mobile phone.
• Auto Picture mode, to automatically select one of the eight shooting modes for the optimum result
• A variety of digital filters, including the newly added Toy Camera, to add distinctive visual effects to recorded images
• D-Range setting, to prevent whitewashed (overexposed) and blacked-out (underexposed) areas in images
• Favorites function, to save reduced-size files of favorite images in the camera and recall them at will
• Digital Wide mode, to create a panoramic, ultra-wide-angle picture (equivalent to an image taken with an approx. 20mm lens in the 35mm format) from two images
• Frame composite function (with 90 frames stored in the camera) to shoot or compose images with decorative photo frames
• Image recovery function, to recover accidentally erased images

*PENTAX-original lens storage mechanism, in which the central lens groups are offset from the optical axis and the entire lens is stored in vertical steps into the lens cylinder. As a result, the overall lens length at the fully retracted position is greatly reduced, contributing to a reduction in body depth.
** When the Optio P80’s AV output terminal is used, movie clips are output as normal image-size data. If the user wishes to playback movie clips at high-definition-TV proportions (1280 x 720 pixels), the data must be transferred to a personal computer for playback.
*** When the High-Sensitivity SR mode is selected, the recorded size is fixed to 5M (2592 x 1944 pixels).
**** When the Movie SR mode is selected, the angle of view becomes narrower than normal shooting.

Samsung C3212 DuoS

The C3212 DuoS is a new dual-SIM device from Samsung, which is one of the few major manufacturers bringing dual standby phones on the market. The C3212 DuoS has a basic feature set but will cost only 135 euro.

The new Samsung C3212 DuoS has a standard bar form factor and targets the low-end budget class. It is expected to feature only basic functions, but at this point there is no further information available. We don't even know if that's a color screen on that press photo there.

Previous dual-SIM devices from Samsung are the C5212, which costs only 15 euro more than the C3212 DuoS suggested price tag, and the slider B5702 featuring bigger screen and better camera. Let's don't forget the luxury S9402 Ego, which impresses both with its unique looks and high price. If you're into touchscreens, you can also go for Samsung D980.

If you haven't seen any of these in your local store, we'd guess that's only because you don't live in Eastern Europe and especially Russia, where all these 3G-less phones are all headed to.

The Samsung C3212 DuoS will probably be the cheapest of them all with its expected price of 135 euro. It's expected later this summer on the Russian market.

Nikon Reveals World’s First Projector Camera

Nikon has unveiled the world's first compact camera with an in-built projector. The S1000pj projects images up to 40 inches in size with a VGA resolution and a maximum distance of 2 meters. The camera is supplied with a remote control and stand for ease of use. It features an optically stabilized wide angle 5x zoom lens (28-140mm equiv.), 2.7 inch LCD and a 12.1MP sensor.

Revolutionises compact digital camera market with a new style of image sharing and viewing

Amsterdam, 4th August 2009 – Nikon Europe today announces the introduction of the world’s first camera with integrated projector as part of its brand new range of COOLPIX cameras. The ground-breaking COOLPIX S1000pj is expected to shake up the compact digital camera market as people begin to see the benefits of sharing and viewing photos and videos using personal projection.

The COOLPIX S1000pj doesn’t just pack a punch with its projector – the compact camera delivers high resolution images with 12.1 effective megapixels and a 2.7” wide viewing-angle TFT LCD monitor. With a high ISO 6400 sensitivity and using Nikon’s exclusive image processing concept, EXPEED, the camera offers the kind of high quality images you expect from Nikon. This is all wrapped up in a sleek aluminium silver or anodized black casing that contains a wide-angle 5x zoom NIKKOR lens.

Mark Pekelharing, Product Line Manager Consumer Products at Nikon Europe B.V: “The launch of our unique COOLPIX projector camera is exciting for gadget and photo lovers everywhere – and another first for Nikon with a compact digital camera that can project images. People can’t help but be blown away by such a beautifully crafted device. It’s packed with everything you need to take amazing photos so easily as well as to show your pictures; a great screen and amazing projector. Sharing photos and videos has never been so easy – or so fun.”

One touch projection
If you’ve ever wanted to share your photos or videos at a party or relive a day’s memories while on your travels, then now you can with one-touch projection on the COOLPIX S1000pj. The built-in projector easily projects an image size from approximately 5 inches up to 40 inches*1. A supplied remote control means that you can wirelessly operate both the projector and usual camera functions, and a simple projection stand is supplied for optimal viewing wherever you are.

Getting the shot you imagine
The COOLPIX S1000pj features Scene Auto mode, whereby the camera automatically selects the appropriate scene mode based on the contents of your shot, allowing picture perfect images at the touch of a button. In addition, five functions to reduce image blur and the Smart Portrait System ensures that you can get those ‘red carpet smiles’ every time. An additional feature enables users to ‘airbrush’ someone’s face using the Skin Softening function to reduce the appearance of blemishes. Together with face tracking and anti-shake functionality, the COOLPIX S1000pj helps you to get the shot you envisaged without any hassle.

The COOLPIX S1000pj will be available at an RRP of £389 / €429*2

my Picturetown
You can now store your images safely and securely using Nikon’s my Picturetown, a free online digital photo storage and sharing service. Easily share photo memories with friends and organise precious memories into online collections. You get 2GB of space free to use for storing thousands of memories and you can upgrade your membership to Gold Account at any time if you need to store more pictures.

Features

Sharper results with five advanced Nikon image stabilising features*3
Nikon's Optical lens shift and Electronic VR image stabilisation systems combine to help produce blur-free images. High ISO 6400*4 capability allows faster shutter speeds when shooting in low light or capturing fast-moving subjects. Motion Detection automatically controls shutter speed and the ISO setting to compensate for subject movement and camera shake. And, Nikon’s original BSS (Best Shot Selector) function automatically shoots a series of sequential frames and saves the one with the sharpest focus.

Nikon’s Smart Portrait System with Skin Softening
Face-priority AF helps produce more satisfying portraits by adjusting focus and exposure for as many as 12 faces in the framed shot. Skin Softening function detects and analyses a framed subject’s skin, and then adjusts smoothness to produce enhanced results. Smile Timer automatically releases the shutter when the subject smiles, while its Blink Proof function shoots two sequential frames, then saves the one in which the subject’s eyes are widest open. Blink Warning presents an alert when it suspects that someone in the shot has blinked. In-Camera Red-Eye Fix automatically corrects any perceived red-eye effect before saving the image to memory.

Intelligent automated shooting modes that promote carefree shooting
Nikon’s Scene Auto Selector makes it faster and easier to capture the moment by eliminating the need to manually select a scene mode to match the intended shot. This intelligent function determines the subject, analyses the surrounding settings, and then automatically selects the appropriate scene mode for optimal results. Subject Tracking enhances the shooting experience by following the subject’s movement to ensure clear focus and quick response when that special shutter opportunity presents itself. Subject Tracking even functions if the subject moves out of the frame for a second or two.

Quick Retouch
Quick Retouch automatically adjusts the contrast and saturation of selected photos to create an enhanced copy with the right finishing touch.

Other Features

• 2.7-in. high-resolution LCD monitor with anti-reflection coated cover
• 16 handy scene modes for optimised shooting in various settings
• D-Lighting
• Active Zoom
• Auto Sort and Favorite Pictures functions
• Four movie modes with sound
• Time zone function for easy setting of multiple locations
• Approx. 36 MB of internal memory
• Hi-Speed USB connectivity

New technology revolutionises Nikon’s COOLPIX collection

Nikon has also announced three new Coolpix S-series compact cameras. The Coolpix S70 is built around a 3.5 inch touch-sensitive OLED screen. New screen technologies can register multiple touchs and should make the camera more responsive, easier on batteries and easier to view than its predecessor. It features an optically stabilized 5x zoom lens (28-140mm equiv.), 12.1MP sensor and HD video recording. Next comes the S640 - the fastest Coolpix to date, which Nikon says offers 'DSLR-like focus speed.' It also features an 'air gapless' screen which fits the protective outer panel more closely to the LCD for improved contrast. Along with the less expensive S570, it features a 5x optically stabilized zoom lens starting at 28mm, 2.7 inch LCD and 12MP sensor. The S570 does without the S640's air gapless screen, fast AF and USB charger, helping keep its MSRP €50 lower.

New technology revolutionises Nikon’s COOLPIX collection

Projector, multi-touch screen, speed & style contribute to compact digital camera range

Amsterdam, 4th August 2009 – Nikon Europe today announces the introduction of the world’s first camera with integrated projector as part of its brand new range of COOLPIX compact digital cameras. The innovative series also includes a camera with multi touch OLED screen, a compact shooter which is as fast as a D-SLR*1 and an elegantly stylish, yet simple to use colourful compact.

Whether you’re a gadget guru or simply a compact camera fan, the new COOLPIX range has something for everyone. It’s the COOLPIX S70 that boasts an innovative multi-touch 3.5 inch OLED display and the ability to record HD quality video, while the COOLPIX S640 is the fastest camera in the COOLPIX range – so you never miss a photo opportunity.

The COOLPIX S570 is stylish and designed to make sure that even the most novice photographer can capture quality photographs. But it’s the COOLPIX S1000pj where Nikon is set to shake-up the way that people share their photos and videos with a true world first – a compact digital camera with integrated projector. All four new models feature NIKKOR lenses, Nikon EXPEED digital image processing, and include legendary Nikon features designed to capture stunning pictures.

Mark Pekelharing, Product Line Manager Consumer Products at Nikon Europe B.V: “We are thrilled with our innovative new COOLPIX collection and, across the range, believe we have created a camera to suit everyone. Our multi touch and projector gadgetry will be sure to impress, but ultimately, all of the range offers sophisticated features to produce Nikon-quality images and bolsters our already impressive collection.”

The COOLPIX S1000pj – The world’s first camera with integrated projector
With a ground-breaking design incorporating an integrated projector to the compact device, the COOLPIX S1000pj offers a technological innovation at the forefront of the photographic industry. The projector enables users to share their photographs with friends and family like never before without the need for additional equipment or crowding round the camera LCD display.

The COOLPIX S1000PJ also features Scene Auto mode, whereby the camera automatically selects an appropriate scene mode based on the contents of your shot, allowing picture perfect images at the touch of a button. In addition, five functions to reduce image blur and the Smart Portrait System ensure crisp photographs at all times. With a 2.7 inch LCD screen, wide-angle 5x NIKKOR zoom lens, and offering 12.1 megapixels, the COOLPIX S1000pj represents a brand new take on sharing photographs.

The COOLPIX S1000pj will be available at an RRP of £389 / €429.*4

The COOLPIX S70 – Innovative Organic EL touch screen technology

With an innovative multi touch screen, the good looking COOLPIX S70 was designed with ease of use in mind. With the ability to pinch, pull and scroll through images in numerous ways on the high quality 3.5 inch Organic EL screen, this camera represents a first in the Nikon range for this upcoming technology.

In addition, the camera also features Touch Shutter - allowing you to focus and take a picture simply by touching the relevant area on the screen. Alongside the chic retro leather-effect exterior design, the high quality OLED screen reflects the superior performance of the camera. With 12.1 megapixels, wide angle 5x zoom NIKKOR lens and a clear and vivid display regardless of environmental conditions, simplicity of use is guaranteed.

Another high performance feature is the ability to record high quality HD movie clips to capture special moments on film. In addition, the ability to ‘leaf’ through pictures quickly and easily makes the COOLPIX S70 the camera of choice for those looking for the latest in photographic gadgetry.

The COOLPIX S70 will be available at an RRP of £339 / €379.

The COOLPIX S640 – the world’s fastest COOLPIX

As the fastest camera in the COOLPIX range, the COOLPIX S640 is ultra quick and easy to use, ensuring you never miss the moment you wanted to capture. With the fastest start up time*2 in the compact camera industry, the COOLPIX S640 also offers Autofocus as fast as a D-SLR*3 helping users take sharp, clean images at speed.

Whilst other compact cameras take longer to focus, the COOLPIX S640 ensures images are taken almost instantaneously, so you capture what you see. In addition, you are able to produce crisp images even in low light conditions, without having to use a flash using the ISO 6400 capability. With a sleek design and a choice of black, silver or white, the COOLPIX S640 offers style and performance. With 12 megapixels, a wide angle 5x zoom NIKKOR lens and a 2.7 inch LCD, this camera is responsive and reliable as well as featuring unmatched speed in the compact camera market.

COOLPIX S640 FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Four advanced image stabilising features help ensure sharper results
Nikon's optical lens shift VR image stabilisation compensates for the effects of camera shake. High ISO 6400 capability at any image size up to its maximum of 4000 x 3000 pixels allows faster shutter speeds when shooting in low light or capturing fast-moving subjects. Motion Detection automatically controls shutter speed and the ISO setting to compensate for subject movement as well as camera shake. And, Nikon’s original BSS (Best Shot Selector) function automatically shoots a series of sequential frames and saves the one with the sharpest focus.

High-quality 2.7-in. Clear Colour Display provides a wider, clearer view
The high-quality 2.7-in. Clear Colour Display for the COOLPIX S640 features an ultra wide-viewing angle, anti-reflection coating, antifouling and water repellent layer, and screen brightness boost function.　Automatic colour correction and contrast adjustment at playback optimise image quality to match the viewing conditions, while also maximising power savings. The monitor’s new structure greatly reduces reflection and improves visibility outdoors.

Nikon’s Smart Portrait System with Skin Softening
As part of Nikon's Smart Portrait System, a series of advanced functions help produce consistently great portraits. The new Skin Softening function automatically detects and analyses your subject's skin and then adjusts smoothness for enhanced results. Automatically detecting as many as 12 faces in the shot, Face-priority AF helps produce satisfying portraits by adjusting focus and exposure. Smile Timer automatically releases the shutter when the priority subject smiles while the Blink Proof function automatically shoots two sequential frames and saves the one in which the subject’s eyes are wide open. In-Camera Red-Eye Fix automatically corrects any perceived red-eye effect before saving the image to memory.

Subject Tracking with auto lock-on
Subject tracking with its new auto lock-on capability automatically detects a human face and then continues to track and focus on that subject. Particularly useful when capturing children as they move naturally, Subject Tracking even functions if the subject moves out of the frame and returns within three seconds.

Quick Retouch
Quick Retouch adds the right finishing touch to your photos by automatically creating a retouched copy with the best balance of contrast and saturation.

Nikon COOLPIX S640 Other Features

• Macro shooting from as close as 2 cm (0.8 in.)
• 16 handy scene modes for optimised shooting in various settings
• Scene Auto Selector
• D-Lighting
• Active Zoom
• Auto Sort function
• Two movie modes with sound
• Time zone function for easy setting of multiple locations
• Approx. 45 MB of internal memory
• Hi-Speed USB connectivity with USB charging via Charging AC Adapter EH-68P/EH-68P (AR) or PC

The COOLPIX S640 will be available at an RRP of £239 / €269.*4

COOLPIX S570 – elegantly simple for the fashion conscious

Elegantly stylish and simple, the new COOLIX S570 allows even those with no photography experience to capture special moments. A camera that’s perfect for parties, nights out, holidays and more, this camera is so easy to use all you have to do is push the shutter button and the COOLPIX S570 automatically selects an appropriate mode to use based on distance, brightness and the positions of faces within your shot.

With a 2.7 inch LCD screen, wide angle 5x zoom NIKKOR lens and ISO 3200 at full image mode, this camera has great features at a remarkable price. Available in Pink, Red, Blue, Black or Warm Silver, the 12 megapixel COOLPIX S570 has a slim and elegant design, creating a practical yet fashionable compact camera.

The COOLPIX S570 also boasts a Smart Portrait System to capture ‘red carpet smiles’ every time with its ‘blink proof’ technology – the camera automatically takes two sequential shots when the subject smiles, saving only the one in which the subject’s eyes are wide open. An additional feature to get that A-list look is the airbrush technique, enabling you to ‘airbrush’ someone’s face using the Skin Softening function to reduce the appearance of blemishes.

COOLPIX S570 FEATURE HIGHLIGHTS

Intelligent automation contributes to carefree shooting
Nikon’s Scene Auto Selector eliminates the need to manually select a scene mode to match the shot, making it faster and easier to capture the moment. The COOLPIX S570 uses this intelligent function to analyse the subject and surrounding setting and automatically selects the most appropriate of the following six scene modes to achieve optimal results — Portrait, Landscape, Night Portrait, Night Landscape, Close-up, or Backlight.

Four advanced image stabilising features help ensure sharper results
Nikon's electronic VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilisation compensates for the effects of camera shake. Motion Detection automatically controls shutter speed and the ISO setting to compensate for subject movement as well as camera shake. ISO 3200 capability at any image size up to its maximum of 4000 x 3000 pixels allows faster shutter speeds when shooting in low light or capturing fast-moving subjects. Nikon’s original BSS (Best Shot Selector) function automatically shoots a series of sequential frames and saves the one with the sharpest focus.

Quick Retouch
Quick Retouch adds the right finishing touch to your photos by automatically creating a retouched copy with the best balance of contrast and saturation.

Nikon COOLPIX S570 Other Features

• 16 handy scene modes for optimised shooting in various settings
• D-Lighting
• Active Zoom
• Auto Sort and Favorite Pictures functions
• Four movie modes with sound
• Time zone function for easy setting of multiple locations
• Approx. 47 MB of internal memory
• Hi-Speed USB connectivity

The COOLPIX S570 will be available at an RRP £199 / €209.*4

my Picturetown
You can now store your images safely and securely using Nikon’s my Picturetown, a free online digital photo storage and sharing service. Easily share photo memories with friends and organise precious memories into online collections. You get 2GB of space free to use for storage thousands of memories and you can upgrade your membership to Gold Account at any time if you need to store more pictures.

Altek T8680 12 MP Camera Phone Has Announced

Putting Taiwanese R&D into practice, Altek have recently announced their 12 megapixel digital camera with GSM phone function. Altek has dubbed it a "professional cameraphone" - meet the Altek T8680.

The camera lens extends out in a very camera-like fashion and just by looking at the back you'd never guess the Altek T8680 is a GSM phone. The benefit over almost all other cameraphones is of course the 3x optical zoom. Altek also claim that here is a separate dedicated imaging processor inside, which takes care of the camera part in a professional manner.

Altek T8680

The T8680 captures images in an ample 12-megapixel resolution and you can crank up the ISO from 80 all the way up to 3200. The software offers face and smile detection, as well as touch focus, plenty of scenes and shooting modes. The camera is accompanied by a xenon flash.

The camera can also record video at VGA resolution using AVI files (M-JPEG codec).

We mentioned touch focus - the T8680 has a touchscreen to allow for that - a 3" WQVGA TFT one. Bluetooth with A2DP, USB, TV out, PictBridge and DPOF handle local connectivity, while the GSM capabilities are rather limited by today's standards. Tri-band (900/1800/1900) GSM/EDGE support is all there is - no 3G this time.

Altek T8680

MP3/AAC support and an FM radio take care of the music capabilities. The Altek T8680 also has an accelerometer that can do the turn-to-mute trick. As for the OS, it's a proprietary one with support for J2ME.

"How big is this thing, anyway?" you may be wondering. The T8680 measures 113.5 x 52 x 16.6 mm and 135 grams - hardly what you'd call "thin" but not the thickest phone we've seen by any means. It packs a 1020 mAh Li-Ion battery for up to 350 hours of standby and 4 hours of talk time.

The Altek T8680 will be available for 3000 yuan (about 308 euro) at the end of August or early September. Whether it will be available outside of China remains to be seen.