computer and internet

Kodak Offers Retailers Easy Entry Into Photo Printing Kiosk Market

2008-05-29T11:00:00.000+03:00

Eastman Kodak Company is offering retailers a the new KODAK Picture Kiosk GS Compact -- an entry-level, self-service digital picture printing solution designed to open up new photo printing sales to retailers in smaller and non-traditional environments.

According to Kodak, the new kiosk is well-suited for locations with print demand of 30 to 50 prints a day, and is a smaller counter-top unit that combines flexible placement with fast and simple installation. Almost immediately, retailers can begin offering 4x6, 5x7 and 6x8-inch print sizes, creating an instant revenue stream.

"Many retailers worldwide want to offer their consumers self-service digital picture printing but struggle to find a solution that meets multiple business needs," says Nicki Zongrone, General Manager of Retail System Solutions, and Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. "The new GS Compact is small enough to fit within their retail footprint at a price point that enables them to almost immediately drive revenue and profits from consumer demand for digital prints. We even include the Point of Sale materials with each unit - it's an instant printing station in a box because a retailer can be up and running in only minutes."

For more information, visit www.kodak.com.

SanDisk SDHC Tops 8GB for Photographers

2008-05-29T10:00:00.001+03:00

More capacity and faster transfer speeds are the chief benefits of the SanDisk Extreme III 8GB SDHC flash memory card, which was introduced today by SanDisk Corporation. The 8GB SDHC card will be packaged with a SanDisk MicroMate USB 2.0 Reader so that users have a one-stop solution for capturing, storing and transferring their images. The bundled card and reader are expected to ship within the next 30 days to U.S. retailers at a suggested price of $179.99. It will also be available in Europe.

An 8GB SanDisk Extreme III SDHC card can store more than 4,000 high-resolution pictures or up to 16 hours of MPEG 4 video(2). The card has a read/write speed of 20 megabytes per second, thus providing rapid downloads to a personal computer.

"With the introduction of more cameras that can use SDHC, including the Nikon D80 and the Canon EOS-1D Mark II, the SanDisk Extreme III card is an ideal choice for those who want maximum dependability, durability and fast download speeds," says Tanya Chuang, SanDisk's Director of Retail Product Marketing for Global Imaging. "Also, since many of these cameras have extended video capabilities, the 8GB capacity provides users with storage for longer movie clips."

For more information about the new SDHC card, visit www.sandisk.com.

HP Restructures Branded Digicam Business

2008-05-29T09:02:00.001+03:00

HP is changing the way it produces and markets branded digital cameras after continued sluggish sales of the digicams. The company said in an announcement today that it plans to shutter its current digicam production facilities and instead partner with an OEM to license the design, source and distribution of digital cameras under the HP brand.

HP will reportedly continue to sell its own HP branded cameras through the holiday season with the hopes of having a new OEM partnership before summer 2008.

The move, the company reports, is part of a larger effort to develop "Print 2.0" initiatives that integrate the company's complex offering of home printing, online photo services and retail digital printing strategies.

For more information, click here.

GE Cameras Now at Pamida Stores

2008-05-28T20:03:00.003+03:00

GE branded digital cameras are now being sold at Pamida stores throughout the Midwest. Pamida is now selling two models of the GE digital camera line at all of its stores: the A730 (MSRP $99.99) and the E1030 ($199.95).

"We're thrilled to have GE cameras available in Pamida stores," says Hiroshi "Hugh" Komiya, Chairman and CEO of General Imaging. "Pamida is another very important member of our retail team."

Pamida is a regional retailer headquartered in Omaha, Neb., which operates 214 stores throughout 16 states, primarily in the Midwest. Pamida carries a wide variety of merchandise including apparel, home electronics, domestics, seasonal items, toys, housewares and grocery offerings, and features top-quality name brands. In addition, the company operates pharmacies in 128 retail stores and offers free prescription mail-out service throughout all Pamida markets. Pamida is an affiliate of Sun Capital Partners, Inc.

The GE A730 includes features one would expect from a much more expensive camera, including 7 megapixels of resolution, a 3x zoom, and a 2.5-inch LCD screen. The E1030 has 10 megapixels, a 3x zoom and a 2.7-inch LCD screen.

More information about the entire line of GE cameras is available at www.ge.com/digitalcameras.

Samsung Ships Next-Generation of Award Winning NV Cameras

2008-05-28T19:02:00.003+03:00

The 10 megapixel NV15 and 12 megapixel NV20, two new models added to Samsung's revolutionary NV series of advanced P&S digital cameras, are now shipping in time for the upcoming holiday season. The two new cameras feature the sleek, elegant design and innovative Smart Touch interface that have become the hallmarks of the NV Series. Both cameras also feature premium Schneider optics with a 3x optical zoom.

"This is the next generation of Samsung's award-winning NV series of digital cameras," says Stewart Henderson, Vice President Marketing, Samsung Opto-Electronics America. "This is not your typical family of point-and-shoot digital cameras. At Samsung, we take great pride in the NV series because of the firsts that it brings to market, including our revolutionary Smart Touch interface, as well as the WOW factor that makes the cameras stand out from the crowd."

The NV15 and NV20 can also shoot at ISO 3200, and boast an improved Advanced Shake Reduction (ASR) feature as well as Samsung's new Auto Contrast Balance (ACB) and Image Noise Reduction modes. ACB automatically adjusts the brightness of subjects composed in harsh lighting, such as those that are back-lit, and the Image Noise Reduction helps limit the amount of noise in captured images, especially those shot at higher ISO settings.

NV20 has a $349 MSRP, and the NV15 has a $249 MSRP. For more information, visit www.samsungcamerausa.com.

Corel Increases Focus on Digital Media Market

2008-05-28T18:01:00.002+03:00

Company Closing Digital Imaging Facility in Minneapolis

Corel Corporation, a leading developer of graphics, productivity and digital media software, today announced that it is increasing its focus on the Digital Media market by concentrating its Digital Media operations in Greater China and Silicon Valley. According to Corel, "these actions will enable the company to fully maximize its broad portfolio of digital media software and technology assets in order to deliver an enhanced user experience to consumers worldwide." Centralizing Corel's Digital Media operations will also enable the Company to further accelerate the development process and increase speed-to-market for new and upgraded products.

"Corel's Digital Media portfolio is the broadest in the industry, covering all of the major digital media segments including imaging, video editing, and DVD authoring," says Jeff Hastings, President and General Manager of Corel Digital Media. "By concentrating our Digital Media operations in Greater China and Silicon Valley, we will be able to better leverage our global resources and talent while further improving the operational efficiency between our software development, product management, and marketing teams. We believe these actions will ultimately result in an even more exciting product range and a richer user experience for our customers."

As a result of these changes, Corel will be closing its existing Digital Imaging facility in Minneapolis. For more information, visit www.corel.com.

Samsung Launches New S-Series Models

2008-05-28T17:00:00.003+03:00

Samsung today announced the launch of two new entry-level digital cameras - the 7.2 megapixel S760 and the 8.1 megapixel S860.

The compact S760 and S860 feature a 3x optical zoom (35mm film equivalent: 38~105mm) Samsung SHD lens, and offer shooters Digital Image Stabilization (DIS) to help minimize the effect of camera shake and produce sharp, clear images, especially in low-light environments. Users can also take advantage of advanced features such as Face Detection and Self Portrait mode.

"Samsung brings a fresh perspective to the world of entry-level digital cameras with its S-Series," says Stewart Henderson, Vice President of Marketing, Samsung Opto-Electronics America. "The S-Series offers the entry-level photographer much more than just family of bare-bones digital cameras, and that's especially true with the new S760 and S860. Building on previous S-Series models, the S760 and 860 combine a number of advanced and fun features, all which are non-intimidating, easy to use and which encourage the end-user to experiment with all that the cameras have to offer."

Both the S860 and S760 will be available in January. For more information, visit www.samsungcamerausa.com.

Casio Rolls Out F1 Ahead of PMA

2008-05-28T16:00:00.002+03:00

CEA did it's darnedest to bring more digital photography exhibits and displays into the show, including a dedicated Digital Photography Showcase in the South Hall for first-time exhibitors. The effort appears to have turned into a real competitor for the annual PMA tradeshow (which rolls into Las Vegas just two weeks from today), with hundreds of HD digicams, higher end DLSRs and HD-ready camcorders throughout the exhibit halls.

Casio's F1 is the star of the show at their booth. A unique combination of prosumer DLSR styling with unmatched features, the F1 is 6.0 megapixel ultrazoom with 2.8" LCD display, 12X optical zoom and a speed burst capture mode capable of taking 60 frames per second at full resolution. While it's digicam specs are impressive, the real kicker for this camera is the full HD movie recording that captures 1920x1080 at 60 fps. Even better, the F1 has a high-speed move recording mode that captures video at 300fps, 600 fps or even a whopping 1200fps.

Pricing and availability for the F1 have not yet been disclosed.

iGEN Image Capture: Night Scope That Takes Pictures

2008-05-28T15:00:00.002+03:00

In 2007, First Texas Products hit the market hard with an industry changing innovation. iGEN 20/20 is a “Night Vision Viewer” that uses state-of-the-art image processing technology, taking the night vision market to an entirely new level. Because it does not use traditional intensifier tube technology, the unit works day or night.

The Night Vision Viewer can be connected to real-time video making it possible to record in complete darkness. The user can adjust the exposure time to enhance the light-gathering capabilities and it has programmable time out features. iGEN 20/20 offers a variety of color output choices and it has enhanced infrared sensitivity that is double that of the intensifier tube technology.

And just when you think there is no improving on perfection, they have done it again! iGEN IC has all the features of the original unit but includes image capture capability. It truly is the world’s first picture taking night scope. Equipped with a SD memory card slot, the unit captures black and white images on a standard memory card. The images are saved as JPEG and TIFF format and can be easily transferred to a computer- no special software or accessories are needed.

Both units have an all glass 2.6x lens that provides 70-ft field of view and ambient light amplification of 650 times. iGEN 20/20 and iGEN IC are superior in quality, resolution and clarity to anything else on the market and they deliver stunning image quality every time. Great for camping, hiking, sailing, wildlife observation and much more; both units can be used day or night and are equipped with a tripod mount.
If you have ever considered purchasing a night vision device, now is the time!

More Digital Camera Accessories From Digital Foci

2008-05-28T14:00:00.002+03:00

Here's more proof that CES is gobbling up yet another peripheral electronics trade shows...this time in the form of PMA. Nearly half the South Hall here at the show is full of digital camera makers, digital camera accessories and far more "prosumer" digital camera devices than last year's CES show.

One of the brightest is this photo storage device from Digital Foci. With a 3.6" LCD screen, storage capacities up to 160GB and more card readers than most of its competitors combined, the Picture Porter Elite is designed to replace a laptop for photographers who routinely out-shoot the capacities of their memroy cards and are forced to lug their entire notebook rig just to keep clearing off the card. And because after a vacation full of shooting photos you've still got a plane ride back home, the device doubles as a portable media player with video and audio capabilities.

For more information, visit www.digitalfoci.com.

Digital Photo Frames Take on New Shapes

2008-05-28T13:37:00.003+03:00

Digital photo frames are a dime a dozen here at the show, but here are a few that stand out above the field.With an expected retail around $100, this multi-photo digital frame from Nextar features hardwood accents and space for both digital and paper photo prints in a collage-type layout. Visit www.nextar.com.
The MemoryFrame from DSI Central is the largest we've seen on display at the show -- 15" TFT LCD! With built-in WiFi, 256MB of internal storage, MP3 and video playback, as well as a variety of desktop mounts, wall mounts and wooden accent frames. Visit www.dsicentral.com.

Naneu Introduces K3L

2008-05-27T18:30:00.002+03:00

Naneu Pro, a manufacturer of high quality, innovative camera, video, laptop and portable audio cases at affordable prices, is pleased to announce the K3L, an updated version of the best-selling Adventure K3, that now features a 15.4” laptop compartment.

Created for photographers or photojournalists, the new model in the Adventure Series is stylish backpack designed to withstand the elements while providing maximum security, greater capacity and easy access to lenses and accessories. Lightweight, constructed of a water-resistant 1680D Ballistic Nylon, the K3L has a unique “AirFlow Suspention System” (patent pending) that keeps the backpack from coming in contact with the user’s back, allowing air to circulate between the back and the pack itself. This uncommon design keeps the user much cooler, and more comfortable. Wherever travels take you, the K3L is a photo backpack that can be worn comfortably all day long. The durable spring steel frame provides a flexible, shock-absorbing and lightweight structure.

The K3L’s main compartment is composed of a top section suitable for day gear and a bottom section housing a padded insert for a camera system, the divider between the top and bottom areas being removable to offer one large compartment for general use. By popular demand, the K3 has been upgraded for 2007 to feature a dedicated padded compartment for most 15.4” laptops. The laptop compartment zippers are now water repellent for more safety.

For more information, visit www.naneupro.com.

Smartparts 32" Photo Frame Towers Over the Competition

2008-05-27T17:30:00.002+03:00

While we thought we'd seen the largest digital photo frames here at CES, we were wrong...by a lot!
Smartparts, Inc., is showcasing a 32" photo frame inside the CES Digital Imaging Pavilion in the South Hall,. Dubbed the SP3200, the flagship model of the company’s OptiPix™ family of digital picture frames, the 32" behemoth is 16:9, widescreen LCD panel that displays photos in high-definition, with a resolution of 1366x768.

The frame can also playback video with sound, including MPEG, MPEG1, MPEG2, MPEG4, WMA and AVI files, at their native resolutions. In addition to being able to control the SP3200 directly from the unit, consumers can also operate the frame via RF remote control. With an operating range of over 100 feet, the RF remote gives consumers the ability to navigate through the SP3200’s graphical user interface and change settings from a significant distance. With 256MB of internal memory, the $899 frame will be available through specialty retailers nationwide, "sometime in the future."

For more information, visit www.smartpartsproducts.com.

Profile: ITOYA Art Portfolios

2008-05-27T16:30:00.002+03:00

The popularity of digital imaging in America continues to grow as an entire segment with new peripheral innovations driving greater sales and profits. In addition to traditional digital cameras, photo printers, ink cartridges and photo paper, digital imaging accessories are an increasingly popular way to supplement each retail transaction and add to the bottom line for consumer electronics dealers, big and small. Leading this new wave of growth in the industry is the Art Profolio brand of digital image storage and presentation albums and envelopes from ITOYA.

With household hobbyists as well as commercial artists and professional photographers printing their own digital images using digital printers and expensive printer paper, the Art Profolio by ITOYA serves as a perfect companion to add value for both the consumer and dealer. Quality-made storage and presentation products at affordable prices, along with an unrivaled assortment of sizes and formats, make the Art Profolio the perfect companion for every digital printer paper sale.

“With digital printer companies continually offering more and more paper sizes and with consumers embracing each new offering, there was a serious void in where to store and organize these expensive digital printer papers,” says Ronald Weese, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for ITOYA. “The Art Profolio books and envelopes offer more ways and sizes than any other product to securely store, present and archive traditional and oversized prints. These books are a must have for any serious dealer who sells digital printers and paper.”

Art Profolio books are quality crafted from Polypropylene and are acid-free in construction, making them perfect for storing photos and film. The poly sleeves in each Art Profolio book securely store and organize images and help preserve them from dust and ambient moisture. The rigid cover allows the Art Profolio to securely transport all types of images.

Art Profolio appeals to a wide variety of consumers, from the general consumer hobbyist to fine artists, commercial artists, graphic designers, professional and student photographers, and sales people. With its value price and quality construction, the Art Profolio is perfect for storing all sorts of products, including commercial art, photography, sales literature, student projects, blueprints, posters and more.
Within the Art Profolio line, there are several unique series of books from which to choose. Each series has its own unique attributes for the consumer’s specific needs.

Available in several price points, the Art Profolio products range in size from 4x6 and 8.5x11 all the way to 13x19, 16x20, 17x22 and 18x24. Both permanently bound sleeve page books, as well as refillable, multi-ring binders are offered, along with vertical portrait and horizontal landscape formats. No other storage and presentation product offers the wide array of sizes and options as the Art Profolio brand by ITOYA.

For more information, visit www.itoya.com.

PMA Preview: Canon Unveils Three New P&S Cameras

2008-05-27T15:30:00.002+03:00

PMA 2008 is less than one week away, and Canon U.S.A., Inc. is getting a jump on the festivities with the release of three new A-series PowerShot digital cameras. The expanded lineup includes the 8 megapixel PowerShot A590 IS; the 8 megapixel PowerShot A580, and color-keyed 7.1 megapixel PowerShot A470 digital cameras. Designed to bring higher end features to the entry-level P&S photographer, the new cameras range in price from $129 to $179.

"Whether capturing the expression of delight on a child's face amid a flock of brightly colored birthday balloons; the brilliant sunlight as it reflects off newly fallen snow, or the fiery-orange horizon as day slips into night, these three new PowerShot A-series digital cameras make capturing, saving and sharing memories as simple as 1-2-3," said Yuichi Ishizuka, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Consumer Imaging Group, Canon U.S.A.

The PowerShot A590 IS has 4x optical zoom and 19 shooting modes, from fully automatic to fully manual operation for greater creative control. It also features the Canon's optimized Optical Image Stabilization system. The A580 has equivalent 4x optical zoom, 16 shooting modes and other mid-grade features. The A470 features a 3.4x optical zoom, manual overrides for ISO speed, exposure compensation and white balance, as well as 14 shooting modes. All the units feature face and motion detection technology, as well as advanced multi-point auto focus systems.

For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.

Analogix Preps Ultra-Low Power HDMI Transmitter

2008-05-27T14:30:00.003+03:00

Analogix Semiconductor, Inc., is readying a new HDMI transmitter that it claims will be the industry's lowest power solution. The Cool HD technology consumes less than 50mw while supporting resolutions up to 720p and 1080i, and utilizes zero power at 480p resolution. It supports HDMI specification v1.2 and also features a high-bandwidth digital content protection (HDCP) engine. Once released, the new CoolHD power-optimized HDMI transmitter technology will be offered in sub 0.18um CMOS process and available in either BGA or TQFP packages.

According to Analogix, the Cool HD ultra low and zero power HDMI transmitters are designed specifically to deliver high performance to the growing small form factor ultra mobile personal computing (UMPC) market and high performance portable media player (PMP's) as well as devices as camcorders, digital cameras and mobile phones. The Cool HD(TM) transmitter will and keys that enable the secure distribution of content between HDMI-enabled devices.

"The ultra low and zero power consumption features of our new transmitter technology will provide an incredible benefit to improve HD playback time from any battery operated or battery dependant mobile device," says Kewei Yang, Chairman and CEO at Analogix. "We see a significant market opportunity for our Cool HD product family as consumers expand the portable media revolution, and come to expect high quality HD format performance from a simple single HDMI connector on their mobile device."

For more information, visit www.analogix.com.

Single-Chip Sensor From ST Makes Mobile Phone Cameras Smaller, Smarter

2008-05-27T13:30:00.002+03:00

STMicroelectronics has introduced market’s smallest single-chip camera sensor for mobile applications. Coupling low space requirements with advanced image processing capabilities, ST’s latest two-megapixel mobile-phone camera sensor addresses consumers’ appetite for full-featured imaging solutions in ever-more popular thin-profiled handsets.

The VD6725 is a 1/5-inch optical-format imaging sensor, with an active pixel array of 1600x1200 (UXGA), a high-performance image processor and camera control functions on a single chip. The VD6725 fits in phone camera modules smaller than 6x6x .8 mm thanks to its 1.75-micron pixel design and ST’s advanced sensor architecture.

ST’s new single-chip camera sensor produces digital video streams at 15 frames per second (fps) at full UXGA resolution and 30 fps at VGA resolution. It supports fast context switching, which means that the sensor switches extremely fast from ‘preview’ to ‘capture mode’, minimizing the delay of the capture control.

For more information, visit www.st.com.

HiTi Digital Photo Frame Incorporates Alarm Clock

2008-05-27T12:30:00.003+03:00

Hi-Touch Imaging Technologies, Inc. is now offering the HiTi K65 digital photo frame to consumers through a variety of online retailers, and seeking brick-and-mortar electronics dealers for distribution in the United States.

The digital photo grame features a crystal clear 7" TFT LCD screen with maximum resolution of 800x480 -- ideal for 4x6" images. With 32MB of internal memry, as well as integrated CF, SD, MMC, MS (and MS Pro) and xD slots, users can create slideshows of thousands of images. The unit also includes built-in clock and alarm functionality, making it an attractive replacement to your conventional bedside radio.

The HiTi K65 is available in three colors -- brushed aluminum grey, pearl white and pearl burgundy -- each with a unique clear plastic besel that makes the frame appear to above a desk on when mounted on a wall.

The HiTi K65 is available now. For more information, click here.

JVC Rolls Out New Camcorders for PMA

2008-05-27T12:08:00.003+03:00

The new line of JVC Everio Hard Disk Camcorders feature a super-slim design that makes them the world’s smallest hard drive camcorders on the market.

For 2008, there will be Everio camcorders available in sapphire blue, ruby red, diamond silver and onyx black, allowing consumers to choose a model based on features, budget and style. Also new is Laser Touch, a touch-sensitive scroll bar that simplifies operation, both 30GB and 60GB models, and a new design that’s some 20 percent smaller than last year’s entry-level model. In addition, a higher-end model offers higher-resolution digital stills by virtue of a seven megapixel CCD, making it unnecessary for people to carry both a camcorder and a digital still camera. This model is the first in the world to have an embedded 1.3” hard disk drive (30GB), which allowed JVC to integrate a large 1/2.5” CCD and its accompanying large optical lens section, without getting bulky — thereby providing the quality benefits of a large lens while maintaining a small body and offering large capacity.

For more information, visit www.jvc.com.

GE Cameras Now Available at Walgreens

2008-05-27T12:06:00.002+03:00

General Imaging, the worldwide exclusive licensee for GE digital cameras, has added Walgreens stores to the list of retailers carrying its products. Walgreens has been selling the entire lineup of GE digital cameras through its Web site, and the relationship is now expanding to put GE cameras in all of the pharmacy giant's brick-and-mortar stores.

"Walgreens is a vibrant American institution with high visibility," says Hiroshi "Hugh" Komiya, Chairman and CEO of General Imaging. "It is great to be able to add such an important retailer to our team."

Walgreens stores will stock the A735 and the E850, both in black, beginning April 15, 2008. The GE A735, a seven mexapixel shooter, is one of the first cameras on the market to include blink detection and smile detection, ensuring that the user captures just the right moment when taking shots of people. The E850 has been one of GE's most popular cameras, in part because it boasts a 28mm-equivalent wide-angle lens. The E850 features eight megapixels, 5X zoom, a three-inch LCD, and a 28mm-equivalent wide-angle lens.

For more information, visit www.ge.com/digitalcameras.

Casio Shipping New EXILIM Later This Month

2008-05-27T11:32:00.002+03:00

Casio America, Inc. took the wraps off a new EXILIM today, the 8 megapixel Zoom EX-Z9. Designed to be as user-friendly as possible, the camera has a 2.6-inch wide LCD display, 3X optical zoom, 23 Best Shot Modes and face detection technology help users take high quality photos without having to adjust camera settings.

“Whether you are taking snap shots of your family at the park or your friends at a concert, this high-quality digital camera is sure to satisfy all of your photographic wants and needs,” says Bill Heuer, Vice President of Casio’s Digital Imaging Division. “Casio’s innovative YouTube Capture Mode allows videos to be recorded and uploaded directly to YouTube in as few as 3 steps, making the EX-Z9 perfect for online video enthusiasts.”

The EX-Z9 comes loaded with other useful features including Anti Shake DSP which reduces photo blur from shaky hands or moving subjects, allowing users to shoot images with ease and confidence. Easy Mode simplifies the camera settings to three easy menus (image size, flash and self timer).

Available at retail before month's end, the EX-Z9 will be available in pink, black, silver and orange and will have an MSRP of $159.99.

For more information, visit www.casiousa.com.

GE Continues to Make Inroads in Digicam Market, Launches 12MP P&S

2008-05-26T23:40:00.003+03:00

General Imaging, the worldwide exclusive licensee for GE digital cameras, is continuing its successful penetration of the digital camera market, unveiling today its first 12-megapixel camera through multichannel retailer HSN.

HSN will offer the E1235 at the special introductory price of $199.95, including a black camera case and an ArcSoft software package including Print Creations Greeting Card, Print Creations Scrapbook, CD & DVD LabelMaker, DVD Slideshow and PhotoImpression. The camera is also available online at www.hsn.com.

GE branded cameras have popped up at a variety of retailers across the country in the past year, and have quickly established a footing in the competitive, entry-level digicam market.

The GE E1235 also marks the company's first foray into more advanced and user-friendly features including blink detection and smile detection, ensuring that the user captures just the right moment in people shots. After a shot is taken, the blink detection feature alerts the user that the subject’s eyes were closed and allows another attempt. The smile detection feature works by tripping the shutter automatically when the subject smiles.

For more information, visit www.ge.com/digitalcameras.

BlueAnt's Voice Recognition Headset Wins Top Prize at CTIA

2008-05-26T23:38:00.003+03:00

BlueAnt Wireless and their 'V1' Voice Controlled Bluetooth Headset won the coveted Best Cell Phone Accessory in the LAPTOP Magazine Best of CTIA Wireless 2008 Awards in Las Vegas. The award winners demonstrated the future of wireless technology in cutting-edge design and utility.

BlueAnt's 'V1' represents the future of Bluetooth headsets allowing users to easily control most functions of their headset using the revolutionary 'BlueGenie Voice Interface' from Sensory, Inc. Talk to it - and it will talk to you. Ask it for assistance - and it will assist you in getting the right command. This advanced headset eliminates combinations of button pushes, button holds and flashing lights synonymous with other Bluetooth devices. A single activation button provides the user with total control of the 'V1's' entire function menu system via an easy to use voice interface.

The 'BlueGenie Voice Interface' uses advanced voice recognition and voice synthesis technology to allow users to easily control the functions of their headset using their voice rather than multiple button presses.

"We are extremely proud to receive this award for the 'V1' headset," says BlueAnt CEO Taisen Maddern. "It recognizes the intensive R&D focus and real world testing of the product over the last 12 months. We are now just weeks away from making the device available to consumers nationally and we look forward to their feedback. It is a sophisticated product offering unlike any other headset that is currently on the market. The 'V1' will lead the way in Voice Controlled Headset technology providing consumers with the kind of functionality that they have been waiting for."

The MSRP of the V1 is $129.95. For more information, visit www.blueantwireless.com.

Vivitar, SED Sign Distribution Agreement

2008-05-26T23:35:00.003+03:00

SED International, Inc. has signed a distribution agreement with Vivitar Corporation to supply the company's popular line of ViviCam digital cameras and video recorders.

"We are pleased that they [SED] recognize the quality, value and beauty of our Vivitar digital camera line and are now offering Vivitar to their loyal customers," says Denis Karpeles, Senior Vice President of Sales, Vivitar North America.

The ViviCam series of digital cameras is one of the broadest product lines of digital cameras on the market today spanning the spectrum of interest from novice through prosumer digital photographer. Vivitar offers 12-megapixel through three-megapixel digital cameras.

"Vivitar gives SED International a large opportunity to sell all channels of business which SED services. Vivitar's large variety of cameras covers the consumer who needs the basic digital camera to the consumer who wants to use video or make high resolution photos. This is a great opportunity for SED," says Tom Roper, VP & GMM of Consumer Electronics for SED International.

Vivitar is the latest in a rapidly growing lineup of consumer electronics vendor partners for the distributor in the U.S. market. Other recent additions include Samsung, JVC, Universal Remote Control, Bell'O and Audiovox. SED offers a strong mix of services and programs for CE and IT resellers, including display programs, floor planning, same day shipping, and the recently rolled out SED Rewards incentive program.

For more information, visit www.sedonline.com.

DXG Brings HD Camcorder to Radio Shack

2008-05-26T23:32:00.003+03:00

DXG USA has taken the wraps off a new, low-priced DXG-569V HD High-Definition camcorder. With a vertical design for an ultra-slim form factor, the new camcorder is available immediately at Radio Shack and other stores for $169 in glossy black and silver.

The DXG-569V HD camcorder records real HD video up to 1280x720 at 30 fps for videos that are crystal-clear, crisp and colorful. Sporting a five megapixel CMOS sensor for still images, a light-weight slim design, large rotational 3” TFT screen and other advanced camera features, the DXG-569V is the perfect size to bring everywhere to capture real life -- from birthdays to baseball games, school performances, vacations and picnics.

In addition, the DXG-569V HD also features a digital voice recorder, so you can record and make notes anywhere you go. And the camcorder also can be used as a mass storage device by connecting it to a PC to easily copy and back-up documents, music files, pictures, and videos from a computer to the camcorder’s SD card.

For more information, visit www.dxgusa.com.

GE Cameras Find More Online Retail Space at Amazon.com

2008-05-26T23:27:00.003+03:00

General Imaging, the worldwide exclusive licensee for GE digital cameras, has teamed with Amazon.com to make its entire line of digital cameras available from the online retailer.

GE-branded cameras are nothing new to Amazon.com, but now expand to include the 2008 models, including the entry-level A series, the mid-price E series, and the ultra-compact G series. Standard colors for the GE cameras are black, silver or red, with some models being available in additional colors as well. Prices start under $90.

“We’re delighted to offer our products through Amazon.com,” says Hiroshi “Hugh” Komiya, Chairman and CEO of General Imaging. “Amazon has continued its amazing growth through 2007 and now into 2008, and we’re happy to be a part of it.”

The GE cameras are among the first on the market to include blink detection and smile detection, ensuring that the user captures just the right moment when taking shots of people. After a shot is taken, the blink detection feature alerts the user that the subject’s eyes were closed and allows another attempt. The smile detection feature works by tripping the shutter automatically when the subject smiles.

One model, the GE E1050, adds several additional features, including touch-screen controls, high-definition video capture, and HDMI connectivity for use with today’s HDTV sets. It is expected to be available by June. A GPS-enabled version of the E1050, which will identify precisely where photos are taken, should be available by this fall.

For more information, visit www.ge.com/digitalcameras.

Olympus Unveils Redesigned E-520 DSLR

2008-05-26T23:25:00.002+03:00

The new Olympus E-520 DSLR camera delivers brilliant images with an industry-leading image stabilization system built into the camera body to compensate for movement so that images are sharp and blur-free with any lens and even at slow shutter speeds. Moreover, Autofocus Live View brings subjects into sharp focus on the camera’s HyperCrystal™ II LCD.

"Beyond a successor, the Olympus E-520 features an array of new technologies that help photo hobbyists and serious digital photographers take remarkable images,” says John Knaur, Senior Marketing Manager – DSLR, Olympus Imaging America Inc. “Its image stabilization system now lets photographers pan while holding the portable camera vertically – perfect for capturing everything from a sprinter breaking from the pack to the bride and groom walking down the aisle."

Also new to the 10 megapixel camera is Perfect Shot Preview, which enables users to preview and select from a variety of thumbnail previews of the photographic effects of white balance and exposure compensation adjustments live on the LCD before taking the photograph.

The E-520 outfit includes a Zuiko Digital 28-84mm equivalent (ED 14–42 mm Four Thirds) f3.5–f5.6 lens, and will be available in July 2008. MSRP is $599.99. For more information, visit www.olympusamerica.com.

JVC Expands Everio Camcorder Line

2008-05-26T23:19:00.003+03:00

JVC's new Everio S Series memory camcorder makes videos over the Internet is easier than ever with one-button uploading to YouTube™, the leading online video community that allows people to discover, watch and share originally created videos.

The Everio S Series, model GZ-MS100, was designed to make sharing simple for the millions of people who enjoy sharing their videos with the world over the Internet. The SD card based camcorder weighs only 0.60 lbs., including battery, and comes complete with CyberLink software for easy uploading and video sharing.

For storage and cataloging, recorded videos can easily be transferred to a PC via USB 2.0 or directly using the SD card. Or, to create DVDs without using a computer JVC offers the CU-VD3 Everio SHARE STATION as an option. Since it was designed as an Everio companion, this DVD burner accommodates Everio's USB Host function that allows scene playback order to be rearranged within the camera before transfer.

The JVC GZ-MS100 will be available next month for $349.99. For more information, visit www.jvc.com.

Fujifilm Increases Photo Paper Prices

2008-05-26T23:17:00.003+03:00

Fujifilm Corporation President and CEO Shigetaka Komori has announced the company's plans to increase prices on its range of photographic papers and photosensitive materials from 10 to 20 percent, starting in July.

The move comes as a result of an effort to sustain the company's photo imaging business amid rapidly rising costs for raw materials, Fujifilm said in a statement today. Price increases will depend on products and markets.

"Fujifilm has been undertaking intensive structural reforms to reduce fixed costs and improve productivity, and has been absorbing the increasing costs of raw materials used to manufacture films and papers over the past few years. However, the recent soaring costs of such materials as silver and crude oil mean that Fujifilm is no longer able to absorb these costs during the production process," the company reported.

The new pricing structure will be applied to each market based on its individual conditions. For more information, click here.

Ritz Camera Adds FUJIFILM Minilabs Across the U.S.

2008-05-26T23:15:00.003+03:00

Ritz Camera Centers, the nation's largest specialty camera chain with approximately 1,000 locations, is enhancing its print technology with the introduction of Fujifilm's Frontier Dry Minilab 400 Inkjet Printers throughout a number of its centers. The Frontier Dry Minilab 400 is the latest Frontier inkjet printing system that delivers Frontier quality prints with the combination of Fujifilm's High Quality Dry Photo Paper, inks and Fujifilm's Image Intelligence technology.

"Ritz Camera has always been focused on providing high quality photos with personalized service to our customers," says Rich Tranchida, Executive Vice President, Ritz Camera Centers. "The Frontier Dry Minilab 400 produces prints with rich color tones and image stability that our customers expect, while providing us a flexible and scalable solution to meet our changing store needs."

The Frontier Dry Minilab 400 integrates into the existing Frontier system, and incorporates Fujifilm's new Frontier Workflow Management Software "MS" featuring its proprietary Image Intelligence technology. The four-cartridge dye ink system generates up to 650 4x6 prints per hour, and up to 250 8x10 prints per hour.

For more information, visit www.fujifilmusa.com.

Pentax Preps Waterproof Optio for Summer Fun

2008-05-26T23:08:00.004+03:00

The PENTAX Optio W60 compact digital camera, featuring a lightweight and fully waterproof design, is shipping in July. The Optio W60 features 10 megapixels and a 5X zoom lens with 28mm wide-angle capability. The enhanced design of the Optio W60 allows the camera to operate up to 13 feet underwater for two hours and at extreme temperatures well below freezing, Pentax says.

Ideal for adventurous as well as everyday settings, the 5X optical zoom refraction lens never protrudes from the Optio W60, yet it covers focal lengths from 5mm to 25mm (approximately 28mm to 140mm in 35mm format). The digicam also features an improved design and construction of the shutter button and controls, as well as reinforced, airtight joints, so users can enjoy underwater photography up to 30 percent deeper than previous PENTAX waterproof models.

The PENTAX Optio W60 will be available in July 2008 for $329.95 in a choice of two colors: Ocean Blue and Silver. For more information, visit www.h20camera.com.

Sony Expands Car Stereo Line

2008-05-26T22:32:00.004+03:00

Sony has added two new Xplod® in-dash CD receivers to its mobile audio line, each featuring an intuitive user interface with USB flash media support for Sony’s Quick BrowZer™ technology. The new CDX-GT920U (pictured) and CDX-GT620U models deliver 52 watts x 4 high-power output and three additional pre-outs to satisfy drivers who want explosive sound and flexibility.

“The receivers deliver more options for a personalized approach to after-market car customization,” says Mike Kahn, Director of Marketing for Mobile Electronics in the Digital Imaging and Audio Division at Sony Electronics.

The CDX-GT920U head unit features a motorized fold-out detachable faceplate and switchable blue, green and red key illumination on a large full-motion florescent display. The multi-line display offers smooth, clean, solid movement of graphics and a higher resolution at 30 x 39 dpi and eight degrees of contrast for improved readability. A rear USB flash drive input with Quick BrowZer allows for quick and simple playlist navigation employing a user-friendly menu system. In addition, the new model provides iPod® player, HD Radio™ and satellite radio compatibility.

The CDX-GT620U head unit features a flip-down detachable faceplate with blue illumination on a black LED display. The front USB input supports Quick BrowZer functionality.

The CDX-GT620U model is now available for about $170, while the CDX-GT920U model will be available in June for about $250. For more information, visit www.sonystyle.com.