Canon’s initial product announcements at CES have concentrated on consumer level devices, with details released for three digicams, two SELPHY printers and three LEGRIA camcorders.
The new PowerShot N100 is designed for today’s ‘connected’ snapshooters. (Source: Canon.)
Arguably the most interesting camera is the PowerShot N100, Canon’s first compact camera with both front and rear facing cameras and Dual Capture functionality that records the photographer as well as the subject. The PowerShot N100 also intelligently combines Hybrid Auto and the Dual Capture functionality to record two seconds of movie footage before and after image capture. A new Story Highlights mode automatically edits images and movies into one video album for viewing and sharing. The N100 sports DIGIC 6 processing and a 12.1 Megapixel 1/1.7-type high-sensitivity CMOS sensor, along with a 5x optical zoom main lens with 24mm wide-angle coverage plus a 25mm lens on the rear-facing Story Camera. Integrated Wi-Fi with NFC makes it easy to share images and movies via Wi-Fi using a home Wi-Fi network or a smart-phone or tablet with mobile data connectivity.
The new PowerShot SX600 HS. (Source: Canon.)
Two new super-zoom models ““ the PowerShot SX600 HS and IXUS 265 HS ““ provide higher zoom ranges to Canon’s pocketable point-and-shoot cameras . The PowerShot SX600 HS offers 18x optical zoom, which can be doubled with high quality ZoomPlus technology. The IXUS 265 HS’s versatile 12x optical zoom lens provides a 25-300mm equivalent zoom range. Both cameras are equipped with the Canon DIGIC 4+ processor and a 16 MP high-sensitivity CMOS sensor.
The silver version of the IXUS 265 HS. (Source: Canon.)
Both models include a dedicated Mobile Device Connect Button that allows users to connect to a smart-phone. New NFC support makes it even easier to connect to NFC-enabled devices. Both cameras support remote control of the camera’s settings from a
smart-phone or tablet over a distance of up to five meters. Images can be captured, displayed and saved using the device’s touch screen.
Both models include a new Creative Shot feature that will record up to six different versions of the same image, each with a different effect. Users can select from four themes ““ Monochrome, Retro, Special and Natural ““ with a total of 46 creative effects. Manufactured in four colours (purple, pink, silver and black) the IXUS 265 HS is small enough to fit neatly into a pocket. Both cameras come with 3-inch LCD monitors, the PowerShot SX600 HS having a PureColor II G screen that is easily viewed in sunlight.
The new SELPHY CP910. (Source: Canon.)
The main difference between the new SELPHY CP910 and SELPHY CP820 desktop printers is that the CP910 supports wireless printing from a Wi-Fi enabled camera, smart-phone or tablet. Both printers models can also print directly from a range of compatible memory cards, or from any PictBridge-compatible device, including camcorders. Their compact designs feature an intuitive user interface and 6.8 cm tilting LCD display for easy viewing. Users can choose from three print finish options, glossy and two semi-gloss options without needing to change the ink ribbon or paper.
The new LEGRIA mini X camcorder. (Source: Canon.)
The new LEGRIA mini X camcorder delivers professional quality audio alongside Full HD video in AVCHD (1080/50i) and MP4 (1080/25p) formats. It boasts Canon’s DIGIC DV 4 processing platform and a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor capable of producing 12MP stills. Compact and light is features a an f/2.8 170-degree ultra-wide angle lens, built-in stand and vari-angle 6.8cm (2.7″) LCD touch-screen plus built-in Wi-Fi for easy file sharing and uploading.
The LEGRIA HF R56 and LEGRIA HF R506 are designed for family videographers and feature enhanced Wi-Fi functionality, which adds the ability to remotely monitor and control live footage shot at home from a tablet or smart-phone and Canon’s free ‘CameraAccess Plus’ app. Launched alongside these cameras is a new motorised Camera Pan Table CT-V1 pan table that can also be wirelessly controlled.
Both models include a Canon 3.2MP Full HD CMOS sensor, Optical Image Stabilisation and Intelligent IS technology as well as a high-quality Canon HD video lens with a powerful 32x optical zoom, and the improved 57x advanced optical zoom. The new LEGRIA HF R56 can also record for big screens and mobile devices at the same time, with built-in simultaneous dual-format recording.
According to overseas website, the new products are scheduled for release between March and May. Details of products that will be offered in Australia will be posted on Canon’s website at www.canon.com.au.