May 28, 2008
KODAK Digital Technology to Provide Mission-Critical Images for Space Flight
ROCHESTER, N.Y., May 28 -- On the upcoming flight of space shuttle Discovery, planned for launch on May 31, 2008, KODAK Digital Technology will again be instrumental in capturing critical images and helping to safeguard the well-being of shuttle astronauts during re-entry back to earth.
KODAK CCD Image Sensors are a key component of the Orbiter Boom Sensor System, an in-flight imaging system attached to the end of a 50-foot robotic arm that is used by shuttle astronauts to scan the underside of the orbiter for possible damage before landing. The resulting high-resolution images are then analyzed to assess any potential spacecraft damage that may have occurred during lift-off or while in flight. This system is now available throughout the entire shuttle fleet to examine critical external surfaces before re-entry.
KODAK CCD Image Sensors are also routinely used in other camera systems operated by astronauts during shuttle missions and on the International Space Station. KODAK Image Sensors power the handheld digital cameras used by astronauts to capture images from space, as well as the recently launched Earth Viewing Camera located on the International Space Station. Surprisingly, these space-based products all use image sensors that are unmodified from those available from Kodak for use on earth.
“Kodak has a long history of participation in the space program dating back to the first flights by Mercury astronauts, and we are proud to see this heritage continue with the use of KODAK Digital Image Sensors today,” said Chris McNiffe, General Manager of Kodak’s Image Sensor Solutions Group. “Kodak is known as a supplier of the highest quality, and the use of commercially available products on both the space shuttle as well as the International Space Station is a testament to the performance and reliability of our CCD image sensors.”
Used across the shuttle fleet, the Orbital Boom Sensor System (OBSS) incorporates a camera designed by Adimec, a leading producer of advanced camera systems located in the Netherlands. The camera is based on the KODAK KAI-2093 Image Sensor, a 1920 x 1080 interline transfer CCD imager that provides up to 30 images per second for high-definition image capture. Added to the OBSS after the “Return to Flight” mission of Discovery in 2005, this camera is used to inspect the leading edges of the wings, nose cap, and crew compartment after each lift-off and before each landing. The OBSS is next scheduled to be used on the upcoming mission for space shuttle Discovery (STS-124), planned for launch on May 31.
The Earth Viewing Camera is a fixed-point Earth-observing camera located on the International Space Station, designed to capture color images of the Earth’s surface to help increase public awareness of the Space Station. Installed in February 2008, the camera is based on the KODAK KAI-4021 Image Sensor, a 4 Megapixel device that includes electronic shuttering capability, a feature critical to preserving the robustness of this camera design by eliminating the need for a mechanical shutter.
Since 1995, shuttle astronauts have used a series of handheld KODAK PROFESSIONAL DCS Cameras to capture high-resolution images of their activities while in space. These cameras, all utilizing KODAK CCD Image Sensors, have to date captured over 130,000 total images, and remain in operation today for use on both the shuttle as well as the International Space Station. The KODAK KAF-6303 Image Sensor, a 6-million pixel device used for medical and scientific imaging applications, is a derivative of the sensor used in those cameras, and remains available today.
In addition to operation on the shuttle fleet and the International Space Station, KODAK CCD Image Sensors can also be found in orbit around the Earth, Mars, and Venus, as well as on the surface of Mars (as well as the Earth). Upcoming missions will expand the use of KODAK Image Sensors to include satellites in orbit around both the Moon and Jupiter.
For specific ordering information and lead times, please contact Image Sensor Solutions, Eastman Kodak Company at (585) 722-4385 or by email at imagers@kodak.com. For more information on Kodak’s entire image sensor product line, please visit www.kodak.com/go/imagers.
Posted by Webmaster at 10:18 PM | Comments (0)
January 07, 2008
Kodak Brings Smart Technology to the 2008 International Consumer Electronics Show
Las Vegas, NV, Jan. 7 -- Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) today announced a suite of new products that once again delivers on the company's enduring brand promise of making photography easy and enjoyable - this time with smart digital technology that encourages consumers to explore their creativity without compromising on image or print quality.
“With our new products launched today at CES, Kodak is continuing to innovate and introduce smart technology that delivers on the promise of ‘you press the button, we do the rest,’” said Pierre Schaeffer, Chief Marketing Officer, Kodak’s Consumer Digital Imaging Group. “For 120 years, Kodak has helped consumers capture life-long memories and now, in this digital age, it all comes to life in high definition on HD displays, wireless picture frames and big bright prints - easily, affordably and without compromise.”
The KODAK ESP 3 All-in-One Printer continues to change the way the world prints at home by offering the latest in design and technology, providing high quality picture and document output, saving people up to 50 percent on everything they print compared to similar consumer inkjet printers*. The KODAK ESP 3 All-in-One Printer offers a sleek design and compact footprint, and will ship with a new software feature --Facial Retouch --that enables consumers to enhance their personal photographs right at home by reducing blemishes and enhancing facial features in just one click.
The new KODAK EASYSHARE V1273 Digital Camera offers new Touch Screen Technology, simplifying picture taking, reviewing and editing. This 12-megapixel, 3X optical zoom camera features a large 3-inch LCD touch screen for easy camera setup and control. HD-enabled, the V1273 takes incredible high definition still pictures and videos for viewing on HDTVs with the KODAK HDTV Dock. In addition to the V1273, Kodak is introducing the KODAK EASYSHARE V1073 Digital Camera with touch screen.
The new KODAK EASYSHARE M1033 Digital Camera is a bright and colorful, thin and stylish, 10-megapixel camera. Equipped with a 3X optical zoom lens and 3-inch wide-angle viewing LCD screen, this camera is packed with features that help ensure great pictures in just about any environment. Additionally, the M1033 captures HD pictures and videos. Kodak is also introducing the KODAK EASYSHARE M763, M863 and M893 IS Digital Cameras.
The new KODAK EASYSHARE Z1085 IS Zoom Digital Camera is a high performance, 10-megapixel, 5X optical zoom camera with optical image stabilization. The Z1085 IS allows consumers to get more creative with their photography by taking advantage of the camera’s manual features or easily capture pictures and videos with automatic controls. The Z1085 IS also captures HD still pictures and videos, enhancing the overall picture-sharing experience.
Kodak is also introducing the KODAK EASYSHARE Z1285 Zoom Digital Camera and KODAK EASYSHARE Z8612 IS Digital Camera.
Your Pictures and Videos in High Definition
All KODAK EASYSHARE Digital Cameras announced today at CES are HD-capable, capturing still pictures and video in high definition. Viewing the HD pictures is simple, thanks to the KODAK EASYSHARE HDTV Dock. Available as an optional accessory to the KODAK EASYSHARE System, the HDTV Dock connects to your HDTV to process and display pictures from HD-enabled KODAK Digital Cameras, SD Memory Cards or USB drives to deliver an outstanding visual experience.
Pricing and Availability
All KODAK products listed in this release will be available at retail and online at www.Kodak.com in the first half of 2008.
Posted by Webmaster at 07:51 PM | Comments (0)
September 20, 2007
Kodak Survey Shows Professional Photographers Remain Ardent Users of Film
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Sept. 19 -- A survey of more than 9,000 professional photographers in the U.S. shows that film continues to have an avidfollowing, with 75 percent of photographers saying they will continue to use film, even as some embrace digital imaging technology. The results of the U.S. survey, conducted by the Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE: EK), mirror the results of a similar survey the company recently conducted in Europe, where more than two-thirds of professional photographers surveyed plan to continue using film.
According to the U.S. survey results, more than two-thirds (68 percent) of professional photographers prefer the results of film to those of digital for certain applications including:
film’s superiority in capturing more information on medium and large format films (48 percent);
creating a traditional photographic look (48 percent);
capturing shadow and highlighting details (45 percent);
the wide exposure latitude of film (42 percent); and
archival storage (38 percent).
“I find film invaluable because the details and look of the photographs are crucial in re-telling the events playing out in front of me,” said Pep Bonet, international award winning photojournalist and a founding member of NOOR, a new photo agency committed to documenting social issues worldwide. “I do very little research or preparation prior to traveling to location. Instead, I arrive, I observe and ultimately, I trust that my camera and my film will capture the story at hand. The stories may be stunning, disturbing or inspiring. But above all, they are real. There’s nothing like film to capture those realities, particularly Tri-X black-and-white film.”
Many of the survey respondents share Bonet’s passion for black-and-white photography and film. Although professional photographers acknowledge that digital cameras offer certain benefits, they said that film better captures certain images, particularly black-and-white photos. The majority (90 percent) of photographers produce black-and-white images, with 47 percent saying black-and-white photography allows them to create a certain look and feel and differentiate themselves. More than half of them (57 percent) prefer using film to achieve this desired effect.
“First and foremost, photographers are artists, supported by the science of the tools that help them do their job,” said Mary Jane Hellyar, President, Film Products Group and Senior Vice President, Eastman Kodak Company. “This survey indicates that film remains an important tool on which professional photographers rely to effectively create their work, so providing choice is of utmost importance. It’s an ‘and’ world where digital and film co-exist and complement each other.”
Kodak strives to provide this choice through ongoing innovation in its film offering. This year alone, Kodak introduced five new versions of its KODAK PROFESSIONAL PORTRA Films, which have received a strong response from the industry. The new PORTRA film family, comprising 160VC, 160NC, 400VC, 400NC and 800, helps professional photographers create stunning images with finer grain, spectacular skin tones, and improved scanning performance for greater enlargement capability.
Posted by Webmaster at 08:31 PM | Comments (0)
August 30, 2007
Three new Kodak Easyshare High Definition Digital Cameras
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Aug. 30 -- Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) today unveiled a suite of new products aimed at helping consumers bring photos back into their homes and into their lives by expanding the possibilities for image capture and display. Millions of digital pictures are captured every year, but most remain trapped in digital cameras or on home computers. At the same time, the widespread adoption of High Definition (HD) televisions presents a new opportunity to relive personal photos and videos with incredible image clarity and sharpness, while growing demand for digital picture frames allows for instant digital photo sharing anywhere in the home. Kodak is delivering an easy solution for consumers to capture and display HD pictures on vibrant, wide-screen HDTVs and digital picture frames, making the viewing and sharing of images in the home more seamless and enjoyable than ever before.
Harnessing the latest digital technology in an easy-to-use solution, Kodak has developed three new digital cameras with HD still and video capabilities, the KODAK EASYSHARE V1233, V1253 and Z812 IS models; the intuitive KODAK EASYSHARE HDTV dock for displaying HD images on a High Definition (HD) television; and the KODAK EASYSHARE SV1011 digital picture frame.
“At Kodak, we believe consumers should be inspired, not intimidated, by the photography experience – from capturing to sharing and displaying. We are breaking down the technology barriers and making it easy for everyone to relive their memories in the highest quality possible,” said John Blake, General Manager KODAK Digital Capture and Devices, Vice President Eastman Kodak Company. “The products announced today represent an important step in helping remove the boundaries for how images can be taken, viewed and shared, and Kodak is dedicated to supporting innovation that will continue to bring intelligent, easy-to-use HD solutions to the market.”
KODAK EASYSHARE V1253 and V1233 Zoom Digital Cameras
The KODAK EASYSHARE V1253 and V1233 zoom digital cameras allow consumers to capture HD still images (16:9 aspect ratio) and video (720p at 30fps), while offering a sleek design and simple-to-use controls. Equipped with 12MP resolution, a 3X SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH optical zoom lens and KODAK PERFECT TOUCH technology, these cameras provide exceptional image quality for every shot.
Both the V1253 and V1233 models boast Face Detection Technology, which automatically adjusts the camera’s settings for outstanding portrait shots, and Digital Image Stabilization to reduce blur caused by camera shake or subject movement. Images can be instantly viewed in 16:9 aspect ratio on the large 3.1-inch LCD screen of V1253 and the 2.5-inch LCD screen on the V1233.
KODAK EASYSHARE Z812 IS Zoom Digital Camera
The high-zoom KODAK EASYSHARE Z812 IS Camera has an impressive feature set and intuitive controls, perfect for the aspiring photographer who wants an easy-to-use camera that delivers great pictures with every shot. With 8MP resolution and an incredible SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH 12x optical zoom lens, the Z812 IS captures HD still images (16:9 aspect ratio) and video (720p at 30fps), and has the ability to extract still images from videos. The camera’s best in class1 click-to-capture (.23), auto-focus accuracy, Optical Image Stabilization and High ISO settings (up to 3200) allow consumers to capture brighter, clearer shots in low-light or fast-action situations.
The Z812 IS also features Face Detection Technology, and its Smart Scene Mode will automatically adjust the camera’s settings depending on the type of scene it detects. For consumers who wish to have more control over the composition of their shots, aperture and shutter speed can be manually selected and the electronic viewfinder can be activated instead of the 2.5-inch LCD screen. The KODAK EASYSHARE Z812 IS Camera features KODAK PERFECT TOUCH technology so every image can look its best.
KODAK EASYSHARE HDTV Dock
The KODAK EASYSHAREHDTV Dock connects to your HDTV to process pictures from KODAK HD-enabled digital cameras, SD memory cards or USB drives to deliver an outstanding visual experience to share with family and friends. Over forty-percent of HDTV owners say they want to view their own photos in HD2 and now Kodak, with the launch of the HDTV Dock, is not only making it possible, but also making it easy.
Using the remote control feature on the HDTV Dock enables consumers to manage their digital pictures while relaxing on the living room sofa. The HDTV Dock makes it effortless to enjoy a full HD-quality slideshow, edit individual images, transfer images to a USB drive, or even print images to a connected printer. Along with being backward compatible with many KODAK EASYSHARE digital cameras, the HDTV Dock automatically charges the rechargeable battery so the camera is ready whenever needed.
KODAK EASYSHARE SV1011 Digital Picture Frame
The latest in Kodak’s highly-successful line of digital picture frames, the SV1011 model provides a 10-inch (diagonal) 800 x 480 high-resolution digital display in 16:9 aspect ratio. A great accessory for any room in the home, digital picture frames offer a fun, modern way to relive the memories captured with your digital camera.
For true plug-and-play simplicity, pictures on this frame are viewed automatically the instant a memory card is inserted. The frame also has 128 MB of built-in memory for storing pictures and videos, built-in stereo speakers and headphone jack for music.
Pricing and Availability
The KODAK EASYSHARE V1253 (US $299.95 MSRP), V1233 (US $249.95 MSRP), and Z812 IS Cameras (US $299.95 MSRP) are now available at retailers nationwide. The KODAK EASYSHARE HDTV Dock will be available from October 2007 at US $99.99 MSRP. The SV1011 will retail for US $199.95 MSRP beginning in August 2007.
Posted by Webmaster at 09:06 PM | Comments (0)
July 25, 2007
Kodak Announce First EASYSHARE Camera With Kodak CMOS Image Sensor
ROCHESTER, N.Y., July 24 -- Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) announced today the first digital camera in its successful EASYSHARE line to incorporate the company’s new, innovative CMOS image sensor technology.
The KODAK EASYSHARE C513 Camera is an entry-level camera designed to produce high-quality images no matter how experienced the photographer may be. The camera is based on the new KODAK KAC-05011 CMOS image sensor, which delivers the image quality and overall performance customers have come to expect from Kodak’s EASYSHARE line of digital cameras while taking advantage of the power, integration and cost benefits associated with CMOS technology.
“The C513 provides consumers true value through easy-to-use and intuitive technology at an affordable price, thanks to the efficiencies that Kodak’s CMOS technology has brought to camera design,” said John Blake, General Manager, KODAK Digital Capture and Devices. “Traditionally, CMOS has allowed for lower cost camera design but was not able to provide top image quality. Kodak has changed that dynamic with the introduction of a digital camera at a remarkably affordable price without compromising image quality or camera function.”
“Today’s announcement validates our continued progress to become a leading mass-market supplier of next-generation CMOS image sensors,” said Chris McNiffe, General Manager of Kodak’s Image Sensor Solutions group. “Kodak camera customers expect both ease of use and performance from KODAK EASYSHARE cameras, and we are excited to provide this CMOS technology in a truly affordable and accessible device.“
The KODAK EASYSHARE C513 Camera is equipped with 5-megapixel resolution and a 3x optical zoom lens, and offers special features to help capture clear, bright pictures and video. Pictures captured by this camera are displayed on a bright 2.4-inch indoor/outdoor LCD screen, perfect for sharing directly with friends and family. The camera’s Digital Image Stabilization feature reduces blur caused by camera or subject movement as a still picture is being taken, and consumers can record life in motion using the video with audio capture feature and on-camera editing.
The 5.0 megapixel KODAK KAC-05011 CMOS image sensor was designed for use in the C513 camera, and provides excellent color reproduction and dynamic range with low electronic noise. The KODAK EASYSHARE C513 Camera will be available for less than US $99 (MSRP) in August 2007.
Posted by Webmaster at 09:30 PM | Comments (0)
June 14, 2007
New KODAK Image Sensor Technology Redefines Digital Image Capture
ROCHESTER, N.Y., June 14 -- Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) today introduced a groundbreaking advancement in image sensor technology that will help to make dark, blurry digital photos a thing of the past.
Kodak’s new sensor technology provides a 2x to 4x increase in sensitivity to light (from one to two photographic stops) compared to current sensor designs. Image sensors act as the “eye” of a digital camera by converting light into electric charge to begin the capture process.
This breakthrough advances an existing Kodak technology that has become the standard in digital imaging. Today, the design of almost all color image sensors is based on the “Bayer Pattern,” an arrangement of red, green, and blue pixels that was first developed by Kodak scientist Dr. Bryce Bayer in 1976. In this design, half of the pixels on the sensor are used to collect green light, with the remaining pixels split evenly between sensitivity to red and blue light. After exposure, software reconstructs a full color signal for each pixel in the final image.
Kodak’s new proprietary technology adds panchromatic, or “clear” pixels to the red, green, and blue elements that form the image sensor array. Since these pixels are sensitive to all wavelengths of visible light, they collect a significantly higher proportion of the light striking the sensor. By matching these pixel arrangements with advanced software algorithms from Kodak that are optimized for these new patterns, users can realize an increase in photographic speed, directly improving performance when taking pictures under low light. Kodak’s new technology also enables faster shutter speeds (to reduce motion blur when imaging moving subjects), as well as the design of smaller pixels (leading to higher resolutions in a given optical format) while retaining performance.
“This represents a new generation of image sensor technology and addresses one of the great challenges facing our industry – how to capture crisp, clear digital images in a poorly lit environment,” said Chris McNiffe, General Manager of Kodak’s Image Sensor Solutions group. “This is a truly innovative approach to improving digital photography in all forms, and it highlights Kodak’s unique ability to differentiate its products by delivering advanced digital technologies that really make a difference to the consumer.”
Kodak is beginning to work with a number of leading companies to implement this new technology in system-wide solutions and to streamline the design-in process.
Kodak is developing CMOS sensors using this technology for consumer markets such as digital still cameras and camera phones. As the technology is appropriate for use with both CCD and CMOS image sensors, its use can be expanded across Kodak’s full portfolio of image sensors, including products targeted to applied imaging markets such as industrial and scientific imaging. The first Kodak sensor to use this technology is expected to be available for sampling in the first quarter of 2008.
For additional information regarding this technology, please contact Image Sensor Solutions, Eastman Kodak Company at (585) 722-4385 or by email at imagers@kodak.com. For more information on Kodak’s entire image sensor product line, please visit www.kodak.com/go/imagers.
Posted by Webmaster at 10:42 PM | Comments (0)
January 08, 2007
Kodak Announces V1003, V803 and C653 Digital Cameras
LAS VEGAS, NV, January 07 -- At the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Kodak introduced two new additions to its award-winning line of KODAK EASYSHARE Consumer Digital Cameras. The KODAK EASYSHARE V1003 Zoom Digital Camera – with 10-megapixel resolution and the KODAK EASYSHARE V803 Zoom Digital Camera – with 8-megapixel resolution, have 3X KODAK RETINAR Aspheric All Glass Optical Zoom Lenses, and come in multiple signature color choices with fun accessories to match your personal style.
“As consumers look for more ways to expand their picture taking experience, the KODAK EASYSHARE 10- and 8-megapixel Digital Cameras make it fun to personalize the camera look and feel,” said Pierre Schaeffer, chief marketing officer, Kodak’s Consumer Digital Imaging Group. “Kodak continues to delight consumers by providing new ways to express themselves, enhancing the overall digital photography experience.”
Now, a new menu feature called “Maintain Settings” stores your preferred settings for flash, white balance, ISO and resolution between uses, saving you time and assuring you have the camera set up your own personal way. With the Favorites feature, you can keep your special pictures on your camera all the time for showing and sharing, without filling up your internal memory.
The KODAK EASYSHARE V1003 and V803 Cameras produce vibrant shots with dynamic picture quality that can be viewed on the large 2.5-inch (6.4 cm) color LCD screen. The cameras are packed with smart features that make great picture taking incredibly simple, including:
New high ISO mode up to ISO 1600 for bright pictures when shooting under low light conditions.
KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology for better, brighter pictures automatically. This exclusive KODAK Technology examines each picture to bring out shadow detail and deliver more vibrant colors in the shot.
22 scene modes, including simple on-camera stitching for dynamic panorama shots.
Digital image stabilization using the anti-blur mode to prevent blurring from subject or hand movement.
Advanced video mode to record VGA video (640 x 480) with sound at 30 fps; includes trimming and tagging for easy editing and searching.
Convenient on-camera tools include blurry picture alert, digital red-eye reduction and picture cropping for consistently better shots.
Express Yourself with New Camera Colors and Accessories from Kodak
The KODAK EASYSHARE Cameras are available in a variety of colors including—pink bliss, red shimmer, cosmic blue, mystic purple, golden dream, white glaze, silver essence, slate gray and java black. To complement the colored cameras, Kodak offers a full range of fun, fashionable camera accessories that make your digital camera your own. They include fashion beaded neck and wrist straps and a line of leather camera bags in the latest purse designs. To get really creative with the look of your camera, you can easily apply a fun, colorful ‘skin’ design—choosing from hundreds of designs on www.kodak.com
KODAK EASYSHARE C653 Zoom Digital Camera Introduced
Also announced at CES is the new KODAK EASYSHARE C653 Zoom Digital Camera with 6-megapixel resolution and 3X optical zoom. The C653 is perfect for consumers searching for a remarkably simple camera that takes great looking pictures. The camera features a 2.4-inch indoor/outdoor color display, digital image stabilization using the anti-blur mode and KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology for superb picture quality.
Pricing and Availability
The KODAK EASYSHARE V1003 Camera will retail for US $249.95 (MSRP) beginning in March, and the V803 Camera will retail for US $199.95 (MSRP) beginning in February. The C653 Camera is available today at retail for US $129.95 (MSRP). The fashion camera accessories range from US $9.95 to $49.95 (MSRP) and can be found on www.kodak.com.
Posted by Webmaster at 07:35 PM | Comments (0)
Kodak Easyshare Digital Picture Frames
At the 2007 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Kodak announced four new KODAK EASYSHARE Digital Picture Frames that play vibrant slideshows of your favorite pictures and videos set to music. Available in 10-inch and 8-inch Wi-Fi and 8-inch and 7-inch standard versions, these frames boast true plug-and-play ease of use and a full menu of versatile features with an intuitive, multifunction remote control. Optional interchangeable faceplates let you match your décor and show off your style.
“Why frame one picture and hide the rest in your computer? Now there is an easy and exciting way to display all of your favorite digital pictures and videos,” said Pierre Schaeffer, chief marketing officer, Kodak’s Consumer Digital Imaging Group. “You can enjoy your pictures and videos accompanied by your favorite music right out of the box because Kodak has made it so simple.”
The frames are color tuned to Kodak standards and use KODAK Color Science for vibrant colors and pleasing skin tones—displaying pictures in brilliant color and crisp detail. Set up is a snap, and you can enjoy any JPEG picture, most video types (MPEG 1 and 4, MOV, AVI) and MP3 music using all the popular memory card formats (CF, SD, MMC, xD and MS). You can also source digital files from any digital still camera, home PC, Jump Drive and Flash Drive via USB 2.0. Stereo speakers are built into the frames for dramatic sound accompaniment to your slide shows.
A handy remote control gives you easy access to all the functionality of the frame – choose the location of your pictures, customize your slideshow, even select pictures and videos to copy, delete, rotate, zoom and print. For those with a wireless home network (Wi-Fi 802.11b/g), you can wirelessly view pictures from your home PC or connect to KODAK Gallery to display your online picture albums right on the frame.
To customize the frame to your décor, optional frame faceplates are available in frosted floral glass, warm walnut wood, whiteboard (write on and wipe off) and antique silver. Easy to change, the faceplates snap onto the frame and update the look to suit your own personal style.
The digital picture frames are available in four versions—feature-by-feature specifications and pricing include:
KODAK EASYSHARE EX1011 Digital Picture Frame has a 10-inch (diagonal) 800 x 480 high resolution digital display in 16:9 aspect ratio with wireless access of pictures, videos and music from your home PC or online at KODAK Gallery over a standard wireless home network. The frame has 128 MB of built-in memory for storing pictures and videos, built-in stereo speakers and headphone jack for music. The EX1011 will retail for US $279.95 (MSRP) beginning in March.
KODAK EASYSHARE EX811 Digital Picture Frame has an 8-inch (diagonal) 800 x 480 high resolution digital display in 16:9 aspect ratio, wireless access, and all other features identical to the EX1011 Frame. The EX811 will retail for US $229.95 (MSRP) beginning in March.
KODAK EASYSHARE SV811 Digital Picture Frame has the same features as the EX811 Frame, with the exception of wireless access. It’s perfect for on-the-spot viewing of digital pictures and videos from any digital camera, home PC via USB and all memory cards. The SV811 will retail for US $179.95 (MSRP) beginning in March.
KODAK EASYSHARE SV710 Digital Picture Frame has a 7-inch (diagonal) 480 x 234 resolution analog display in 16:9 aspect ratio. The SV710 is truly plug-and-play and you can begin enjoying pictures right out of the box. The SV710 will retail for US $129.95 (MSRP) beginning in March.
Posted by Webmaster at 07:30 PM | Comments (0)
August 08, 2006
Kodak Announces World’s Smallest Ultra-Wide-Angle Zoom Digital Camera
ROCHESTER, NEW YORK, August 08 -- In the latest addition to its award-winning EASYSHARE consumer digital photography system, Eastman Kodak Company today announced four new innovative and user-friendly products to the C and V lines of EASYSHARE Digital Cameras. The KODAK EASYSHARE V705 Dual Lens Digital Camera – the world’s smallest ultra-wide-angle optical zoom digital camera, and the KODAK EASYSHARE C875 Zoom Digital Camera, with 8.0 MP, 5X all glass SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH optical zoom lens, are two impressively designed and unbelievably equipped offerings from Kodak.
“As a leader in the digital camera marketplace, Kodak once again surpasses the competition by designing innovative and powerful ultra-compact cameras,” said Mary Hadley, General Manager, Digital Still Cameras, Kodak’s Consumer Digital Imaging Group. “Kodak continues to raise the bar by providing picture takers with the tools to create high-quality photos, enhancing the overall digital photography experience.”
Style and Power
The KODAK EASYSHARE V705 camera allows consumers to capture amazingly wide views with the world’s smallest ultra-wide-angle optical zoom digital camera. Strengthening its commitment to pushing the boundaries of technology, Kodak designed the V705 to include KODAK RETINA Dual Lens Technology, which touts two 7 MP sensors, anti-blur technology and KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology. With the V705, consumers can get closer and see the details with 5X optical zoom range, and automatically adjust its setting when choosing from 22 scenes and three color modes. Picture takers can even capture the most expansive shots in just seconds with panorama stitch mode, capturing up to 180 degrees with only 3 shots.
The powerfully simple video features include the ability to record VGA video (640 x 480) at 30 fps with sound, and convenient on-camera video editing tools offers consumers to trim clips and create prints from video (4, 9 or 16 up), plus view and share single frames.
Easy-to-Use and Packed with Innovative Features
With 8.0 MP and 5X all glass SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH optical zoom lens, the affordable and feature-packed KODAK EASYSHARE C875 Zoom Digital Camera gets consumers closer to their subject and creates exceptional quality prints up to 76 x 102 cm (30” x 40”). Perfect for the second-time buyer, this unique camera combines a sophisticated design with ease of use and captures stunning shots with the smart scene feature – which automatically selects the best scene mode. Viewing these shots is made easier with its large 6.4 cm (2.5”) indoor/outdoor color display featuring a wide viewing angle.
The camera also boasts KODAK PERFECT TOUCH technology for better, brighter pictures. Picture takers can even capture life in motion with TV quality (VGA) video at 30 fps, and create action prints from video (4, 9 or 16 up), plus view and share single fames while using less memory with MPEG-4 compression.
Additional Introductions
In addition to the KODAK EASYSHARE V705 and C875 cameras, Kodak announced two other products today, including extensions of the popular EASYSHARE digital camera line with the new KODAK EASYSHARE C743 (3X optical zoom, 7.1 megapixels) and the KODAK EASYSHARE C433 (3X optical zoom, 4 megapixels) Zoom Digital Cameras. The new C743 and C433 Cameras provide remarkable features at reasonable prices, allowing consumers to capture and share quality pictures with family and friends.
Pricing and Availability
The KODAK EASYSHARE V705 camera will be available worldwide beginning in September. The KODAK EASYSHARE C875 camera will be available worldwide beginning at the end of August, while the C743 and C433 cameras will be beginning mid-September.
Posted by Webmaster at 10:27 PM | Comments (0)
June 21, 2006
Kodak Easyshare P712 Camera
Rochester, NY, June 20 -- Eastman Kodak Company today announced the KODAK EASYSHARE P712 zoom digital camera, setting a new performance benchmark for the consumer “superzoom” category. Its precision auto-focus system with best-in-class click-to-capture rate — literally faster than the blink of an eye, at less than 1/10th of a second (0.07 seconds) — helps photographers get the exact shots they want, whether action on a sports field or children on the playground.
“When second and third-time digital camera buyers walk into stores this year, they’re searching for models with better performance and more control than point-and-shoots, without sacrificing ease of use. They want pictures that look phenomenal straight out of the camera,” said Mary Hadley, general manager of digital cameras at Kodak. “Our new P712 camera is specifically designed for these photographers, helping them take stunning pictures that they’ll want to share widely with friends and family.”
The KODAK EASYSHARE P712 camera features a 12X (36 – 432 mm equiv.), image-stabilized, f2.8 – f/3.7, SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON lens that delivers exquisite detail and sharpness. Its 7.1 megapixel sensor is paired with legendary KODAK Color Science image processing for spectacular, highly accurate color — shot after shot.
Optical image stabilization provides a two-stop advantage over non-image stabilized systems for better capturing subjects in low light for both stills and video. It also minimizes handheld camera shake at longer focal lengths, which is ideal while photographingsporting events and during everyday picture taking when carrying a stabilizing device is impractical.
The P712 camera will be available worldwide beginning in July 2006, with a suggested retail price of US$499.
Sharing Made Simple
The EASYSHARE P712 camera’s large 2.5-inch, high-resolution LCD and electronic viewfinder simplify framing, reviewing and sharing pictures. Photographers can select pictures for e-mailing or printing with a touch of the exclusive Share button, and even mark them as favorites for automatic uploading to the KODAK EASYSHARE Gallery in conjunction with included KODAK EASYSHARE Software version 6.
TV-quality, 30 frames-per-second VGA video with sound (MPEG4) is always available on the P712 camera with the turn of a dial. Convenient on-camera video editing includes functions such as split, cut, merge and trim, plus the ability to create single-frame or multi-frame “storyboard” still pictures.
As with all EASYSHARE cameras, the P712 model is compatible with KODAK EASYSHARE snapshot printers and camera docks, the IMAGELINK print system, and PICTBRIDGE technology for direct photo output without a computer.
Advanced Features for Precise Control
The hot shoe flash connector and optional KODAK P20 zoom flash (US$149 MSRP) provides enhanced, more flexible lighting control, while the included rechargeable lithium-ion battery delivers long-lasting power for more picture taking opportunities.
Additional features include PASM, custom and extensive preset scene modes; multiple burst modes for action shooting; three-shot in-camera panorama stitching; a live histogram; 25 selectable AF points; custom white balance with selectable compensation; highlight/shadow clipping displays; and RAW/TIFF/JPEG support.
About the KODAK EASYSHARE System
Kodak continues to bring groundbreaking features to its award-winning KODAK EASYSHARE digital photography system, enhancing the digital photography experience for consumers worldwide. The EASYSHARE system consists of cameras, snapshot printers, services, docks, software, inkjet and thermal photo papers, and accessories, making taking, sharing and archiving high quality digital pictures effortless. Further information on KODAK EASYSHARE products is available at www.kodak.com/go/EasyShare/
Posted by Webmaster at 07:44 PM | Comments (0)
April 30, 2006
Kodak V610 - World’s Smallest 10X Optical Zoom Dual Lens Digital Camera
New York, NY, April 25 -- Eastman Kodak Company today introduced the KODAK EASYSHARE V610 dual lens digital camera, the world’s smallest 10X (38 – 380 mm equiv.) optical zoom camera at less than an inch thick. Using innovative KODAK RETINA Dual Lens technology, the sleek, pocket-size V610 camera precisely combines two SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH C-VARIOGON all-glass, non-protruding prism lenses to deliver such a long zoom range a first for a camera so small (just 4.4 x 2.2 x 0.9 inches).
The innovative 6-megapixel EASYSHARE V610 camera, with anti-blur technology, can be carried where bigger, bulkier high-zoom digital cameras cannot — in a pocket while skiing, in a small purse during a day on the town, or on a wrist while hiking. The result is the ability to get extremely close, high quality pictures of distant subjects without the obtrusiveness of a larger camera.
Kodak now has the world’s smallest digital cameras at both ends of the consumer photography spectrum — the EASYSHARE V570 model for ultra-wide-angle needs (23 mm equiv.) and the EASYSHARE V610 model for long-zoom needs.
In addition, the EASYSHARE V610 model is one of the first digital cameras to incorporate BLUETOOTH® wireless technology, making it easier to instantly share pictures with people nearby. EASYSHARE V610 camera owners can effortlessly send their pictures to other BLUETOOTH technology enabled devices up to 30 feet away —e.g., mobile phones, PDAs, computers, KODAK Picture Kiosks, and even other V610 cameras — as well as receive and view pictures on the huge 2.8-inch, high-resolution (230,000 pixels) LCD screen.
“Kodak innovation continues to make it easier for people to take and share better, sharper pictures. We’re creating cameras for the digital age, breaking traditional constraints by using multiple light paths, lenses and sensors; by incorporating wireless technologies; and by taking advantage of advanced digital processing algorithms,” said John Blake, general manager, Digital Capture and Imaging Devices, Consumer Digital Imaging Group; and vice president, Eastman Kodak Company. “The EASYSHARE V610 camera joins the acclaimed dual-lens V570 model in showing what’s possible when innovative engineering is melded with innovative design.”
The KODAK EASYSHARE V610 zoom digital camera will be available worldwide in May and will have an MSRP of US$449 in the U.S.
Posted by Webmaster at 10:23 PM | Comments (0)
February 22, 2006
Fujifilm, Konica Minolta and Eastman Kodak
Fuji Photo Film Co., Ltd., Konica Minolta Photo Imaging Inc. and Eastman Kodak Company, founding members of the former Picture Archiving and Sharing Standard (PASS), today announced the EVERPLAY standard designed to ensure compatibility of digital photos and motion images across a broad range of consumer products for future generations. Methods to organize and preserve digital images have evolved independently by many different companies and have lost interoperability among the different systems. There are also potential problems as time passes, systems evolve and formats change.
The new EVERPLAY standard aims to resolve these issues and respond to consumers' needs to protect images and enjoy widespread interoperability. The standard is designed to make it easy to implement and uses XML next-generation language in its specification.
Fujifilm, Konica Minolta and Kodak will begin a free license program immediately and call for the adoption of the EVERPLAY standard by all consumer digital-imaging companies. The goal for products and services is to use images interchangeably and movies ubiquitously while at the same time, acknowledge the value for protecting consumers' images.
By signing the licensing agreement, which is available on the Web site, any company can acquire a royalty-free license to execute the specification, use the trademarks and obtain rights to the patents owned by the EVERPLAY founders.
Further, the following tools will be provided at no cost: Software development kit (SDK) v1.10 and Verifying tool v1.10. Details can be obtained from http://www.everplay-spec.org .
In concurrence with the completion of the standard, the new name "EVERPLAY" replaces "PASS" and shall be used as an interchangeable name for the specification and related communication. A trademark, "EVERPLAY," and associated logo have been registered to help with future identification of products and services compliant to the standard.
Posted by Webmaster at 11:29 AM | Comments (0)
February 17, 2006
Kadak Easyshare Z612 zoom digital camera
ROCHESTER, NY, February 17 -- Eastman Kodak Company today announced the new KODAK EASYSHARE Z612 zoom digital camera, the latest model in its Z-series line, which helps everyday picture takers get closer, better, more creative shots.
KODAK EASYSHARE Z-Series digital cameras combine fast-performing, point-and-shoot flexibility with the photographic control achieved through a higher optical zoom. The 6-megapixel KODAK EASYSHARE Z612 Zoom Digital Camera is a compact camera boasting a 12X SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON optical zoom lens with Kodak’s image stabilization technology for sharp shots and steady videos.
The camera’s easy-to-use performance features include a 2.5” display, PASM modes, auto-image enhance, on-camera cropping, histogram and advanced video designed to help aspirational photographers take better pictures with sharper detail.
“The EASYSHARE Z-Series cameras offer a vast array of user-friendly features in a compact model with advanced controls that allow users to dive into photography and achieve more satisfying results,” said Mary Hadley, General Manager, Digital Capture, Consumer Digital Imaging Group, Eastman Kodak Company. “In addition to its impressive resolution and 12X optical zoom, the Z612 enhances the overall digital photography experience by delivering the natural details, accurate flesh tones, and impressive color via Kodak’s proprietary color science chip.”
The KODAK EASYSHARE Z612 camera records TV-quality video, up to 30 frames per second (fps) using advanced MPEG-4 compression. Built-in image stabilization technology reduces on-screen shaking from unintentional hand and camera movement. The camera also offers an optical zoom feature for video including auto focus. And it is simple to select any frame in a video, then save and print it as a “freeze frame” still picture in just seconds.
The KODAK EASYSHARE Z612 Zoom Digital Camera will be available worldwide beginning in April 2006 and will retail for US$299 (MSRP).
Posted by Webmaster at 06:18 PM | Comments (0)
Kodak Easyshare V-Series Zoom Digital Cameras
ROCHESTER, NY, February 17 -- Building upon the tremendous success of its award-winning line of KODAK EASYSHARE V-series digital cameras, Kodak debuts the V603, a compact camera that is the perfect mixture of style, performance and simplicity that can slide into almost any pocket.
The KODAK EASYSHARE V603 Zoom Digital Camera is designed for people who want a small, stylish camera packed with innovative features to enhance the photography experience. It is the latest in the V-series line of cameras which features exciting digital advancements wrapped in sleek camera bodies while remaining true to Kodak’s signature ease-of-use.
The tiny, 6.1-megapixel V603 features a SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH C-VARIOGON 3X optical zoom lens, a 2.5” high-resolution display, in-camera picture enhancing features such as KODAK PERFECT TOUCH technology and multiple color and scene modes including panorama stitch.
“Kodak continues to merge innovation with style in its V-series line of digital cameras,” said Mary Hadley, General Manager, Digital Capture, Consumer Digital Imaging Group, Eastman Kodak Company. “The combination of high tech, high style and high performance at an affordable price is something that people have come to expect from Kodak and the V603 delivers.”
The KODAK EASYSHARE V603 zoom digital camera records TV-quality video, up to 30 frames per second (fps) using advanced MPEG-4 compression with the ability to split video with a simple on-camera editing feature. Built-in image stabilization technology during video reduces on-screen shaking from unintentional hand and camera movement. The camera also offers zoom during video including auto focus with its professional-caliber 3X SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH C-VARIOGON optical zoom lens. And it is simple to select any frame in a video, then save and print from video in just seconds. Then watch the videos on the camera’s big, bright 2.5-inch LCD screen.
The KODAK EASYSHARE V603 Zoom Digital Camera, which comes in black or silver, will be available worldwide beginning in April 2006 and will retail for (US$299 MSRP).
Posted by Webmaster at 06:14 PM | Comments (0)
Kodak Easyshare C643 and C533 zoom digital cameras
ROCHESTER, NY, February 17 -- Eastman Kodak Company today announced the EASYSHARE C643 and C533 zoom digital cameras that combine Kodak’s hallmark ease-of-use, quality and value, making it possible for entry-level picture takers to capture, share, organize and print pictures.
“Kodak’s new C-Series cameras provide users new to photography with tools to capture and share their memories,” said Mary Hadley, General Manager, Digital Capture, Consumer Digital Imaging Group, Eastman Kodak Company. “The C643 and C533 are designed to give people the opportunity to get the best quality pictures beginning with their very first shot.”
The new KODAK EASYSHARE C643 Digital Camera is an all-purpose solution for users who seek compact design and exceptional value - 6.1-megapixel resolution, 3x optical zoom lens and 5x digital zoom, large 2.4’’ LCD color display, 30 fps TV-quality video (VGA) with audio capture, and a wealth of on-camera picture-enhancing features.
An ideal entry-point camera to the popular KODAK EASYSHARE System, the new 5.0-megapixel C533 boasts a 3X optical zoom lens and 5X digital zoom, 1.8’’ indoor/outdoor color display and on-camera cropping.
The cameras operate with common AA alkaline batteries, or, for longer life, with optional KODAK Oxy-Alkaline, Ni-MH rechargeable, and high power lithium digital camera batteries. In addition, useful features such as undo-delete (to restore an image just deleted) and internal memory plus (to easily switch from a full memory card to internal camera memory) are included on both cameras and are aimed at making sure that users get the best possible pictures.
The KODAK EASYSHARE C643 (US$249 MSRP) will be available worldwide beginning in April 2006 and the C533 (US$199 MSRP) will be available worldwide beginning in June 2006.
Posted by Webmaster at 06:10 PM | Comments (0)
January 08, 2006
Kodak Easyshare Z650 Digital Camera
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 4 -- On the eve of the 2006 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Eastman Kodak Company announced the new KODAK EASYSHARE Z650 zoom digital camera, the latest model in its Z-series line. The 6.1-megapixel camera offers aspiring photographers exceptional performance and greater photographic control through its professional-quality SCHENIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON 10X optical zoom lens, helping capture detail from afar and flattering portraits.
“As with the entire line of EASYSHARE Z-Series cameras, the Z650 delivers more advanced control when needed and simplicity of operation for everyday situations,” said Mary Hadley, general manager of digital cameras for Kodak’s Consumer Digital Imaging Group. “Although the new Z650 has an impressive resolution, is also demystifies the conception that megapixels are the only standard of measurement when buying digital cameras. By adding advanced features like 10X optical zoom and a live histogram, Kodak has raised the bar by providing photographers with the tools to create high-quality photos, enhancing their overall digital photography experience.”
The EASYSHARE Z650 camera will be available worldwide beginning in February 2006 for US$349 (MSRP).
Other Innovative Features of the Z650 Camera
The EASYSHARE Z650 camera builds in a number of innovative features that photographers will appreciate, including:
The exclusive KODAK Color Science image processing chip that results in portraits with edge-to-edge sharpness and brightness, rich color, accurate skin tones and highly accurate exposure;
Remarkable dynamic range, fine detail and delicate highlights;
A large 2.0-inch, high-resolution indoor/outdoor LCD screen that allows previewing of shots or reviewing pictures stored in 32MB internal memory or on an optional SD/MMC card;
A live histogram that enables photographers to see the exposure of their subjects before taking the shot;
Automatic, aperture priority and shutter priority modes, plus 17 scene modes;
A high-speed precision auto-focus system that offers fast click-to-capture times;
First and last burst modes and flash compensation;
On-camera editing features includes automatic red-eye reduction, cropping, blurry picture alert and auto picture rotation;
5X advanced digital zoom delivers noticeably sharper pictures than regular digital zoom;
The exclusive Share button to tag pictures for e-mailing, printing and saving to the on-camera digital photo album, computer, and online album as favorites.
Making the EASYSHARE System Connection
Z-Series camera owners can quickly print KODAK 4 x 6-inch pictures with just one touch in as little as 60 seconds, using the new KODAK EASYSHARE Printer Dock Plus Series 3. The Series 3 printer docks are the first to support the new IMAGELINK print system, working with new EASYSHARE cameras and other manufacturers’ compatible cameras.
The Printer Dock Series 3 also transfers pictures to a connected computer, and recharges and reconditions the cameras’ batteries. Pictures made from EASYSHARE printer docks are vibrant, borderless, waterproof, and will last a lifetime, under typical photo album display conditions.
The line of EASYSHARE printer docks makes printing truly one-touch simple, and does not require people to connect a cable between camera and printer. Their convenience, print speed, ease-of-use and phenomenal picture quality have resulted in overwhelming demand from picture takers worldwide, with the line having achieved the number one market position in the United States, Australia and the United Kingdom, according to The NPD Group and GfK.
The Z-Series cameras include new KODAK EASYSHARE software version 5.2 for WINDOWS and MACINTOSH systems, providing effortless digital picture organization, editing, sharing and printing. The exclusive One Touch to Better Pictures feature takes advantage of proprietary color technologies developed by Kodak to help users get vibrant, true-to-life prints from inkjet printers. Version 5.2, which is available for free download from www.kodak.com, also makes sharing your favorite pictures as simple as possible, automatically placing them in albums on your camera, on your computer, and in your online KODAK EASYSHARE Gallery albums.
Posted by Webmaster at 10:18 AM | Comments (0)
Kodak Easyshare C663 Zoom Digital Camera
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 4 -- Building upon its popular consumer digital photography system, Eastman Kodak Company today introduced the EASYSHARE C663 zoom digital camera. This model, with 6.1 megapixel resolution, a huge 2.5-inch LCD screen and a SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON 3X optical zoom lens, is the first camera to incorporate proprietary KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology.
At the touch of a button, this innovative feature — previously available only on KODAK printers and kiosks, or via lab processing — creates better, brighter pictures by bringing out detail in shadows without affecting lighter areas. It’s ideal for underexposed pictures caused by shooting beyond the flash range or in adverse lighting conditions.
“Kodak is a digital photography leader, not only in ease-of-use, but also image quality,” said Mary Hadley, general manager of digital cameras for Kodak's Consumer Digital Imaging Group. “The C663 model fits the needs of a broad range of people looking for a compact digital camera that delivers exceptional image quality, plus Kodak’s hallmark simplicity of operation. Our latest innovation — the addition of KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology to the camera itself — helps people take the best possible pictures, which they’ll be more apt to share and print.”
The KODAK EASYSHARE C663 camera (US$299.95 MSRP; available March 2006) uses the exclusive KODAK Color Science image-processing chip for phenomenal image quality with rich color and accurate skin tones. Seventeen programmed scene modes (e.g., party, fireworks, children) and five color modes (high, low and natural color, sepia, and black & white) help capture the best shot with the least effort.
On-camera picture-enhancing features include cropping, auto picture rotation, digital red-eye reduction, and blurry picture alert. The model also integrates Kodak's Share button with its ‘favorites’ feature for storing multiple pictures in an on-camera digital photo album. Each picture can then be shared anytime on the camera’s high-resolution 2.5-inch indoor/outdoor LCD display. For capturing more than just still pictures, the camera also features high-quality (VGA) video capture, playback and video action print options.
In related news, Kodak also introduced the EASYSHARE C530 digital camera (US$139.95 MSRP; available February 2006), a 5.0 MP model that offers fully automatic point-and-shoot convenience to make it incredibly simple to take and share pictures and videos. With its automatic mode, three different color settings, and on-camera cropping, first-time users are guaranteed to get a great shot time after time.
Posted by Webmaster at 10:15 AM | Comments (0)
January 07, 2006
Kodak Says Consumers Will Set the Rules for the Future of Digital Imaging
Speech at International Consumer Electronics Show
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 6 -- Just as consumer desires drove the evolution of photography during the past 125 years, today’s consumers are defining the rules that will drive the future of digital imaging, said Antonio M. Perez, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE: EK). It’s a future where all digital content is automatically identified, organized and instantly accessible anytime, anywhere.
In a keynote address today to attendees of the International Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, Perez reflected on the current state of the digital imaging industry and asserted that consumers want full ownership of and instant access to all their images and information in order to creatively tell their life stories. Yet, Perez noted, the imaging industry continues to make this a difficult proposition by adding complexity through the proliferation of stand-alone devices and rapidly changing, proprietary technology standards that confuse consumers.
“Digital products and services should not require our customers to be engineers or professional photographers, but rather, should inspire them to be artists and publishers as they capture the moments of their lives, as they see them, with intuitive ease,” said Perez.
Perez stated that, since the days of company founder George Eastman, Kodak has focused on unleashing the power of images through innovation and by making complex technology simple to use. Yet, today’s digital capture devices don’t enable consumers to take full advantage of the powerful capabilities offered by digital technology.
“Today’s digital cameras are dinosaurs, with the same basic architecture and functionality as the box Brownie camera that Kodak introduced more than one hundred years ago,” said Perez. “It’s a lens, shutter and something to capture the focused light. All the imaging industry has done is to replace silver with silicon. In the next era, we will design digital cameras from the ground up to take full advantage of the creative power that digital technology provides.”
“Consumers want the power to use their images to connect, create, preserve, entertain and inform,” said Perez. “To that end, Kodak is committed to reinventing the digital imaging experience by pretty much changing everything that defines photography today and bringing ease-of-use to the next level.”
Perez cited the following three Kodak technology platforms that are driving the company’s innovation efforts:
Kodak Perfect Touch Technology, that will automatically detect and fix, before the user knows it, common photographic flaws such as under-lit pictures, high contrast scenes, back-lit shadows and red-eye in both still and motion images.
Kodak’s e-finder technology, where all digital content is automatically given a unique identity, enabling users to instantly access any image or information they wish anytime, anywhere. This intelligent content technology would take metadata tagging to the next level by enabling organization of pictures based on GPS location, automatic scene classification (beach, birthday party, etc.), decade mapping, face recognition technology and more.
Kodak’s e-moment technology, an intelligent system where pictures have the ability to automatically recognize each other. So, without human instruction, a picture will use its metadata to find another picture with related data, and assemble into new groups based on how they relate to one another. For example, imagine being able to access every picture ever taken of your son or daughter at Christmas, whether it’s part of your collection or those of relatives and friends.
“Consumers own the future of digital imaging -- their pictures, their memories, their life’s data, the stories they can tell about their life,” said Perez. “But it’s no longer about just pictures or voice, data or text. It’s the future where information and imaging become one, and consumers can access the important images of their life anytime, anywhere.”
Achieving this vision, said Perez, will take intellectual property and brand strength, delivered through innovation, partnerships and consumer insights.
“Images are an integral part of our lives. We must enable people to share faster, seamlessly and much simpler than is possible today,” said Perez. “Without true partnerships across our industry this will not happen. We will disappoint consumers and will miss one of the greatest business opportunities of our time. One of our top priorities at Kodak is to build strong partnerships with other industry leaders to make this happen.”
Posted by Webmaster at 03:16 PM | Comments (0)
January 06, 2006
Kodak and Lexar Introduce High-Performance Memory Cards
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 4 -- Eastman Kodak Company (NYSE:EK) and Lexar Media, Inc. (Nasdaq: LEXR) today introduced KODAK High Performance memory cards designed for digital camera owners who require high-speed processing for rapid-fire still shooting, high frame rate video capture, and fast computer transfer. Initially available in SD (Secure Digital) format, KODAK High Performance memory cards, offered by Lexar, are ideal for users of all SD format digital cameras with both still and video capture capabilities.
“By offering SD High Performance cards, we’re improving the overall experience for people who want to capture and store their memories with both still images and video,” said Claudio D’Amico, general manager, worldwide memory business, Eastman Kodak Company. “Recreational picture takers want to pick up their digital camera and instantly ‘freeze’ a moment in time. By using a KODAK memory card that reduces the lag time between shots and optimizes full-motion video capture capability on some cameras, our customers will be ready for anything that comes their way.”
KODAK memory cards — including the new SD High Performance cards — help people have greater confidence that their treasured digital pictures and videos are stored safely with state-of-the-art technology. In addition, all KODAK flash memory cards are fully compatible with a lengthy list of consumer electronics devices such as digital cameras and PDAs, as well as tens of thousands of KODAK kiosks located at retail shops worldwide.
“As part of a multi-year agreement announced in mid-2004, Lexar and Kodak are co-marketing a full range of memory cards,” said Tessa Board, vice president and general manager, Kodak Business Unit, Lexar. “These memory cards offer dealers innovative, trustworthy, advanced flash memory products customers have traditionally come to expect from Kodak.”
KODAK High Performance flash memory cards will be initially available from Lexar in capacities of 512MB and 1GB this month. Larger capacity cards will be available later this year.
Posted by Webmaster at 09:17 PM | Comments (0)
January 02, 2006
Kodak Unveils World’s First Dual-Lens Digital Camera; Combines Ultra-Wide Angle and Zoom Lenses in Compact Body
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 2 -- Kicking off this week’s 2006 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES), Eastman Kodak Company today introduced the world’s first dual-lens digital still camera, the KODAK EASYSHARE V570 zoom digital camera. Using proprietary KODAK RETINA Dual Lens technology, the elegant V570 camera wraps an ultra-wide angle lens (23 mm) and an optical zoom lens (39 – 117 mm) into a small, sleek package less than an inch thin.
The innovative EASYSHARE V570 camera’s ultra-wide angle lens coupled with its optical zoom lens produces a total 5X optical zoom range, providing more options to help today’s picture takers capture the perfect shot —group photos, scenic landscapes, dramatic portraits, and close-ups. No other consumer digital camera offers such a wide angle of view, nor the unique, sophisticated design of this model, whose all-glass, stacked SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH C-VARIOGON prism lenses never extend from the camera body.
“Today’s picture takers expect high-performance features in an attractive package. Kodak is first to give them a coveted but previously unavailable ultra-wide angle lens in a pocket-size camera,” said Mary Hadley, general manager of digital cameras for Kodak’s Consumer Digital Imaging Group. “Capturing high quality photos with maximum ease of use are at the top of people’s lists when buying a new digital camera. By delivering on these needs in a completely new way, the EASYSHARE V570 camera pushes the boundaries of innovative design for ultra-compact cameras.”
In addition to its dual lens design, the 5-megapixel V570 camera boasts a variety of notable features to enhance the photography experience, including in-camera panorama stitching, which automatically combines three pictures into a panorama photograph. Using the ultra-wide view in panorama scene mode, people can take in a 180-degree vista with just three shots — an industry exclusive.
Packing advanced video performance, the camera makes it easier for users to shoot all types of action in the way that many filmmakers prefer — with an ultra-wide angle to capture more of the scene. The EASYSHARE V570 camera records TV-quality video, up to 30 frames per second (fps) using advanced MPEG-4 compression. Built-in image stabilization technology reduces on-screen shaking from unintentional hand and camera movement. The camera also offers an optical zoom feature for video including auto focus. And it is simple to select any frame in a video, then save and print it as a “freeze frame” still picture in just seconds.
Other notable features of the V570 camera include:
A big, brilliant 2.5-inch, high-resolution LCD screen;
The exclusive KODAK Color Science image processing chip for phenomenal image quality with rich color, accurate skin tones, low noise and precise exposure;
Automatic red-eye reduction, on-camera cropping, picture blur alert and auto picture rotation;
In-camera distortion correction to compensate for ultra-wide angle fish-eye effects, which can be turned on or off;
Twenty-two scene modes plus three color modes, helping snap shooters capture the best possible shot with the least possible effort;
The Photo Frame Dock 2, which provides one-touch picture transfer to a connected computer while keeping the cameras’ high-capacity lithium-ion battery charged and ready to go, and which can play video and photo ‘slideshows’ on the camera’s high-resolution LCD screen;
And 32 megabytes (MB) of internal memory, plus a SD card slot for additional storage.
The KODAK EASYSHARE V570 zoom digital camera with Photo Frame Dock 2 will be available worldwide beginning later this month for US$399 (MSRP).
Posted by Webmaster at 11:15 PM | Comments (0)
October 20, 2005
Kodak Announces Highest Resolution Image Sensors for Professional Photography
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Oct. 20 -- Eastman Kodak Company has once again set the quality standard for digital imaging with new high-resolution image sensors that allow commercial, studio, and other professional photographers to capture digital images with the most life-like detail possible. These new products strengthen Kodak’s position as a leading image sensor supplier to a wide variety of markets, and reinforce strategic product and partnership announcements made earlier this year that target mass-market consumer applications.
Already the world’s leading supplier of image sensors for medium-format professional photography, Kodak is expanding its product line with the introduction of the world’s highest-resolution sensors for professional photography. The KODAK KAF-39000 Image Sensor, featuring 39 million pixels, and the KODAK KAF-31600 Image Sensor, with 31.6 million pixels, offer professional camera and camera back manufacturers resolution and image detail that was once unimaginable for digital cameras, allowing photographers to experience a new level of image quality for portrait, wedding, landscape, fashion, studio, and commercial photography. These new CCD image sensors have already been selected for use by Phase One A/S for use in their upcoming P45 and P30 digital camera backs.
Posted by Webmaster at 01:05 PM | Comments (0)
September 02, 2005
Kodak Sets a New Pace for Home Picture Printing
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Sept. 2 -- Building on its highly successful line of EASYSHARE printer docks, Eastman Kodak Company today significantly grew its at-home printing presence by introducing three innovative products, including universal models that make real KODAK pictures from nearly any digital camera for as little as 29 cents per print. Kodak already has the best-selling snapshot printers in the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia, which collectively account for nearly 75 percent of the world’s snapshot printer volume. The new products include:
The universal KODAK EASYSHARE Photo Printer 500 (US$249), debuting with the world’s largest (3.5-inch) LCD screen on a snapshot printer, which is intended for owners of virtually any brand of digital camera and recent camera phones.
The KODAK EASYSHARE Printer Dock Plus Series 3 (US$179), designed for use with KODAK EASYSHARE and IMAGELINK print system enabled digital cameras, which delivers automated KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology to home printing for the first time.
The universal KODAK EASYSHARE Photo Printer 300 (US$119), which produces real KODAK pictures directly from a computer or PICTBRIDGE enabled camera.
Both the KODAK EASYSHARE Photo Printer 500 and Printer Dock Plus Series 3 allow for optional wireless printing via Wi-Fi technology — an industry first for dedicated snapshot printers.
In addition, people can now inexpensively print waterproof, durable, stain-resistant KODAK pictures at home for as low as 29 cents each with new 160-count paper-and-ink refill packs (US$46.99).
These products will begin reaching retail stores by October, complementing the existing EASYSHARE Printer Dock Series 3 (US$149), as well as multiple KODAK EASYSHARE Digital Photo Solutions packages that combine digital cameras, printer docks, and software.
Posted by Webmaster at 10:39 PM | Comments (0)
September 01, 2005
Kodak EASYSHARE-ONE WiFi Digital Camera Available October
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Sept. 1 -- Eastman Kodak Company announced today that its innovative EASYSHARE-ONE zoom digital camera would be available for purchase this October, coinciding with the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Since it was announced earlier this year, the EASYSHARE-ONE model - the world's first Wi-Fi consumer camera - has won hundreds of accolades from industry organizations and consumer electronics writers for its groundbreaking design and functionality, making it one of the most talked about digital photography products in years.
The KODAK EASYSHARE-ONE camera does more than just incorporate basic Wi-Fi functionality. It combines Kodak's signature ease-of-use with groundbreaking technology to give people a single, innovative device for sharing, taking, organizing, and printing pictures, said Mary Hadley, general manager, digital cameras, Eastman Kodak Company.
With its ability to send e-mail from the camera, to connect to the KODAK EASYSHARE Gallery at home and on-the-go from thousands of public hotspots worldwide, to store up to 1,500 favorite pictures, and to simplify viewing and operation via its unique touch screen and graphical menus, the EASYSHARE-ONE camera marks a new era in digital photography. As the ultimate picture sharing device, it delivers a completely new digital photography experience unmatched by any other camera.
The company has also developed a new, interactive tour of the EASYSHARE-ONE camera, available at http://www.kodak.com/go/easyshare-one. In addition to providing 360-degree views of the camera, the MACROMEDIA FLASH micro-site highlights the multiple ways in which people can easily share, take, edit, organize, and print their pictures - all wirelessly.
Kodak is working with the world's leading wireless companies to make sharing pictures across town, across the country, or across the globe as easy and convenient as possible. All EASYSHARE-ONE camera purchasers receive a complementary, camera-specific trial service in conjunction with major hotspot providers. In addition to service from T-Mobile USA, with more than 6,000 T-Mobile HotSpots across the United States, EASYSHARE-ONE camera owners will also be able to enjoy public connections in other key world markets. Kodak plans to announce further market-specific service providers, as well as retailers that will sell the EASYSHARE-ONE camera, in the coming weeks.
The EASYSHARE-ONE camera continues to win global praise for its multi-faceted innovation. In addition to receiving extremely high praise from hundreds of journalists and analysts, it has also won some of the consumer electronics industry's top awards, including:
Kodak designed the EASYSHARE-ONE model (US$599 MSRP, including the KODAK WI-FI® Card) specifically for sharing, moving the camera experience from point-and-shoot to point-and-share. It incorporates multiple benefits that avid picture sharers could only dream of until now, including:
E-mail and online picture sharing without a computer, using a direct, wireless connection to the KODAK EASYSHARE Gallery service. By connecting to the Gallery through a compatible home or public network*, people can upload pictures and videos for near instantaneous electronic sharing with friends around the world.
On-the-spot sharing of up to 1,500 favorite pictures, synchronized with a person's PC-based picture collection, thanks to a huge, 3-inch, high resolution, rotating LCD touch screen that's protected when not in use, plus a generous 256 megabytes of internal memory†. In addition, when connected wirelessly to the KODAK EASYSHARE Gallery, EASYSHARE-ONE camera owners can also view thousands more of their pictures stored online, including albums shared by their friends and family.
Significantly enhanced ease-of-use for picture sharing and taking, including the ability to create on-camera albums in which to store pictures, intuitive menu options with touch screen selection, automatic organization of pictures by date taken, and even richer, graphical scene modes to help get the best possible picture in a variety of outdoor and indoor environments. The dynamic user interface was developed in MACROMEDIA FLASH, a first for digital cameras.
Wireless picture printing with KODAK PERFECT TOUCH Technology when used with the new KODAK EASYSHARE snapshot printers (optional KODAK WI-FI card required for the printer).
Pictures with professional-quality color and sharpness, with the use of a renowned SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH C-VARIOGON 3X optical zoom lens (36 – 108 mm equivalent), a 4-megapixel sensor, and the exclusive KODAK Color Science image processing chip.
Smooth, vibrant video taking and sharing, with its built-in high frame-rate motion and sound recording, plus the ability to share those videos via the KODAK EASYSHARE Gallery.
Premium customer service from Kodak, providing EASYSHARE-ONE model owners with priority inquiry handling, assistance with the camera’s wireless setup and operation, and other benefits made available to only these customers.
Posted by Webmaster at 10:48 PM | Comments (0)
August 02, 2005
Kodak Easyshare P-Series Digital Cameras Unveiled
ROCHESTER, N.Y., Aug. 2 -- Building on the global success of its EASYSHARE digital photography system, Eastman Kodak Company today announced the KODAK EASYSHARE P-Series camera line. This new class of advanced digital cameras extends Kodak’s signature simplicity-of-operation to avid photographers, giving them better tools to capture the exact images they want.
The KODAK EASYSHARE P880 (8.0 MP, with a 24 – 140 mm (35mm equiv.,) f/2.8-4.1, wide-angle lens, US$599 MSRP; available beginning this September) and P850 (5.1 MP, 36 – 432 mm (35mm equiv.), f/2.8-3.7, image-stabilized lens, US$499 MSRP; available beginning this month) digital cameras are engineered for exacting performance, whether the photographer is shooting dramatic outdoor vistas, fast-moving sporting events, or everyday family events.
Kodak has incorporated advanced yet easy-to-use features, as well as legendary KODAK Color Science image processing, for stunning, highly accurate color — shot after shot. In addition, Kodak is introducing a host of accessories including the new external KODAK P20 Zoom Flash (US$149.95 MSRP), which intelligently and automatically interacts with the P880 and P850 cameras for additional flash range.
The innovative KODAK EASYSHARE P880 zoom digital camera brings in-demand KODAK technologies and features to serious photographers, setting a new price-to-performance benchmark. It provides more expansive picture-taking capability with a 24-140mm (35mm equiv.) wide-angle, f/2.8 – f/4.1, professional-quality SCHNEIDER-KREUZNACH VARIOGON zoom lens. The 24mm wide angle setting is ideal for landscape photography, allowing a person to get closer to subjects, while contributing to greater sense of place by “pulling in” foreground objects with greater depth of field. It’s also ideal for interior photography, where barriers such as walls typically make it difficult to get all desired subjects into a shot. Creative photographers can also shoot with this wide perspective for unique portraiture, or to capture a greater scenic expanse for later cropping.
With the same integrated lens, users can also optically zoom up to 140 mm (5.8X) using the manual zoom ring for precise framing. Achieve accurate focusing, even in low light conditions, with the selectable 25-point, advanced, hybrid Auto Focus system or via the manual focus ring. Experience enhanced, flexible lighting control via the hot shoe flash connector, plus the PC sync port for off-camera flash options.
Posted by Webmaster at 08:02 PM | Comments (0)
