Get ready for the next generation of digital cameras, which will offer sensors with 4 megapixel – or greater – resolution.

 

Get ready for the next generation of digital cameras, which will offer sensors with 4 megapixel – or greater – resolution. Three key models will be reviewed in the first issue of Digital PhotoReview magazine [link to mag section].
Sony was first cab off the rank with its DSC-S85, which has a 4.1 megapixel CCD sensor and features a Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar zoom lens with a 3x optical and 6x precision digital zoom.

Canon has followed with the launch of the PowerShot G2, an upgrade to the popular PowerShot G1, which features a 4.0 megapixel sensor. Improved body design, an under-$2000 price tag and a greater range of functions make this a very appealing purchase for photo enthusiasts.

Not to be left behind, Sony is now about to release its DSC-F707 model, which comes with a 5 megapixel sensor. The new model has similar styling to the DSC-505 (with the large rotating lens barrel) but comes with a 5x zoom lens (Carl Zeiss manufactured) with a focal length equivalent to 38-190mm. This lens is faster, with a maximum aperture of F2.0 at wide angle and F2.4 at telephoto.

In coming months, Fuji, Minolta, Olympus and Toshiba are expected to launch new 4 megapixel models and we hope to be able to report on them as they become available.